Glycolic acid and niacinamide are two of the most popular ingredients used in skin care products today.
Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) commonly used for exfoliation and skin resurfacing. It works by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be sloughed off and replaced with new, healthy skin. This process helps to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, brown spots, and other signs of aging.
Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that helps to brighten skin tone and reduce discoloration. It also works to improve skin texture, reduce fine lines, and prevent breakouts. Niacinamide can be found in over-the-counter products such as moisturizers, serums, and cleansers.
When it comes to combining these two ingredients in your skincare routine, it’s important to use them in the right order. Glycolic acid should be applied first, followed by niacinamide afterwards. This ensures that the glycolic acid has time to penetrate the skin before being blocked by the niacinamide molecules. Doing this can help you get maximum benefit from both ingredients and achieve better results with your skincare routine overall.
When using these two ingredients together it’s also important to remember not to overuse them as this could lead to irritation or sensitivity on your skin. Also make sure you use sun protection when using either ingredient as they can increase your sensitivity to sunlight.
Does Glycolic Acid Go Before Niacinamide?
Yes, glycolic acid should be used before niacinamide. Glycolic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates the skin, while niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that has anti-inflammatory and brightening properties. By usng glycolic acid first, you can help to slough off dead skin cells and reveal the brighter, more radiant skin underneath. Niacinamide can then be applied to help hydrate and further improve the appearance of the skin.
What Should You Not Mix With Glycolic Acid?
AHAs and BHAs, such as glycolic, salicylic, and lactic acids should nevr be used with Vitamin C. Niacinamide is found with Vitamin C in some multi-ingredient serums as antioxidants, but it’s never a good idea to layer them together.
Can I Apply Niacinamide After Glycolic Acid?
Yes, you can apply niacinamide after glycolic acid. When layering products, start with the one that has the lowest pH first. This will be your glycolic acid, which you’ll apply straight after cleansing. Niacinamide is a slightly higher pH than glycolic acid, so it would be best to wait at least 30 minutes after applying glycolic acid bfore applying niacinamide.
What Can You Not Mix With Niacinamide?
Niacinamide and vitamin C should not be used tgether because they are both antioxidants. Vitamin C is unstable and can break down when combined with niacinamide, so it’s not as effective.
Can I Use The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Toner With Niacinamide And Hyaluronic?
Yes, you can use The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution first, wait about 30 minutes for your skin’s pH to normalize, and then apply your niacinamide product. Niacinamide is a great ingredient to use in combination with glycolic acid, as it helps to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and improve the skin’s overall texture. Hyaluronic acid is also a great ingredient to use in combination with glycolic acid, as it helps to moisturize and hydrate the skin.
When Should I Use Glycolic Acid In Routine?
Glycolic acid should be used in the evening, as it makes your skin sensitive to sunlight. Applying it at night gives ample time for it to do its magic without a higher risk or damaging your skin in the sun. But you should stil always apply an SPF moisturizer in the morning.
