No matter how experienced you may be in the world of skincare, all the new and unfamiliar ingredients can be quite overwhelming. Powerful ingredients such as retinol, niacinamide, vitamin C, and certain acids demand to be the star of the show. Mixing them with other ingredients could lead to irritation and redness.
To keep things simple, we’ve put together a beginner’s guide on how to effectively use niacinamide and AHA/BHA together, so that you can get the maximum results.
What is Niacinamide?
Otherwise known as vitamin B3, this antioxidant is an anti-inflammatory that can brighten skin and even out discoloration. This ingredient is suitable for pretty much every skin type, every skin concern, and benefits are easily obtained.
What are AHAs and BHA?
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (glycolic acid, lactic acid etc) and Beta Hydroxy Acid (salicylic acid) are chemical exfoliants that are used to peel the top layer of your skin to allow new, evenly pigmented skin cells to form. Here’s a complete beginner’s guide on how to use AHAs and BHA.
Can Niacinamide and AHAs/BHA Be Used Together?
Short answer is: Yes! You certainly can. To make niacinamide and AHAs/BHA work together, layer them on your cleansed face—just 30 minutes apart. You can also use them at different times of day, use niacinamide in the morning and AHAs/BHA at night.
If you are a beginner or your skin is sensitive, the best way to use them is by applying them on alternate nights, for example, one night you could apply your AHAs/BHA after cleansing, and the next night, you could use your niacinamide, and then gradually increase usage.
And it goes without saying, but wearing sunscreen 365 days per year, rain or shine, is arguably the most important thing you can do to maintain healthy, beautiful skin.
Product Recommendations
1. The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution. Buy It: $7.20; sephora.com
2. COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner. Buy It: $20; ulta.com
3. First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Niacinamide Dark Spot Serum. Buy It: $42; skinstore.com
4. The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%. Buy It: $5.90; sephora.com
5. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel. Buy It: $88; sephora.com
6. Go-To Skincare Exfoliating Swipeys. Buy It: $35; gotoskincare.com
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• Physical and Chemical Exfoliation: What’s the difference
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