At maple + björk, we know that putting together a skincare routine that works for you can be satisfying and rewarding, but at times, also a bit confusing. One of the reasons for this confusion can be lack of clarity about what ingredients you are encouraged to combine, versus those that are better to apply at different times of day or on alternating days. Generally, the reason to avoid combining certain ingredients is either a risk of irritation, or concern that the active ingredients neutralize one another and then lose their full powerful potential.
Well, look no further! Below is a guide to which ingredients can be used together and which should be kept apart.
VITAMIN C
Works well with: Most antioxidant serums, Vitamin E, SPF
Avoiding combining with: Retinol, Niacinamide, AHAs (Glycolic acid, Lactic acid, Mandelic acid), BHAs (Salicylic acid), soap-based cleansers
NIACINAMIDE
Works well with: Hyaluronic acid, Retinol, SPF
Avoiding combining with: AHAs (Glycolic acid, Lactic acid, Mandelic acid) and BHAs (Salicylic acid) (OBS! can be used 30 minutes apart), Vitamin C
RETINOL
Works well with: Niacinamide, Hyaluronic acid, SPF
Avoiding combining with: Vitamin C, AHAs (Glycolic acid, Lactic acid, Mandelic acid), BHAs (Salicylic acid). Can alternate nightly between retinol and acids
SALICYLIC ACID (BHA)
Works well with: Hyaluronic acid, Moisturizing serums, SPF
Avoiding combining with: Retinol, Glycolic acid and other AHAs (can alternate nightly between retinol and acids), Niacinamide (but can be used 30 minutes apart)
GLYCOLIC ACID, LACTIC ACID (AHAs)
Works well with: SPF
Avoiding combining with: Retinol, Salicylic acid and other BHAs (can alternate nightly between retinol and acids), Niacinamide (but can be used 30 minutes apart)
GENERAL TIP
Avoid using two products with the same active ingredients at the same time. This is due to the possibility of irritation, redness, and skin flaking - all signs that the skin barrier is disrupted.