Skincare: What to Use, What to Avoid

Ingredients to Avoid Combining in Skincare:

1. Retinol

   • Do Not Combine With:

     • Vitamin C: Combining these can irritate the skin due to differences in pH levels.

       • If you need to use both, use retinol at night and vitamin C during the day.

     • AHAs/BHAs (Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid): Increases the risk of irritation and over-exfoliation.

     • Benzoyl Peroxide: Cancels out retinol’’ effectiveness and can dry out the skin.

2. Vitamin C

   • Do Not Combine With:

     • Niacinamide: Can cancel out each other’s benefits and may cause flushing.

     • Retinol: Leads to irritation and decreases efficacy.

     • AHAs/BHAs: Can irritate and destabilize vitamin C.

3. AHAs/BHAs (Exfoliating Acids)

   • Do Not Combine With:

     • Retinol: Too harsh when combined, leading to redness and peeling.

     • Vitamin C: Over-exfoliates and destabilizes vitamin C.

4. Niacinamide

   • Do Not Combine With:

     • Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid): They can neutralize each other when used together in the same routine.

5. Benzoyl Peroxide

   • Do Not Combine With:

     • Retinol: Reduces effectiveness and can over-dry the skin.

Special Notes:

Vitamin C is best used in the morning because it protects your skin from environmental stressors like pollution and UV damage throughout the day. Its antioxidant properties neutralize free radicals, making it a great daytime addition to your skincare routine.

1. Follow with Moisturizer and Sunscreen: Sunscreen enhances the protective effects of vitamin C, which works synergistically to shield your skin.

Retinol is best used at night because it makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight, which can lead to irritation, redness, and reduced effectiveness when exposed to UV rays. At night, your skin naturally repairs and regenerates, making it the perfect time for retinol to work its magic.

1. Start Slow

   • Use retinol 2-3 times per week initially to allow your skin to adjust. Gradually increase frequency as your skin builds tolerance.

2. Pea-Sized Amount

   • A little goes a long way! Use a pea-sized amount for your entire face to avoid irritation.

3. Apply to Dry Skin

   • After cleansing, make sure your skin is completely dry before applying retinol. Applying it to damp skin can increase irritation.

4. Moisturize

   • Follow up with a gentle, hydrating moisturizer to combat dryness and strengthen your skin barrier.

5. Always Use Sunscreen

   • Retinol makes your skin more prone to sun damage. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every morning to protect your skin.

6. Be Patient

   • Results take time! It can take 4-12 weeks to see significant changes in skin texture, fine lines, and clarity. Stick with it!

7. Take Breaks if Needed

   • If irritation occurs (redness, flaking, or dryness), take a few days off and hydrate your skin before reintroducing retinol.

8. Retinol Alternatives for Sensitive Skin

   • If retinol feels too harsh, try Bakuchiol, a gentler plant-based alternative with similar anti-aging benefits.