Retinol Combos with AHAs, BHAs, Niacinamide & Peptides

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When it comes to reversing signs of aging, retinol is quite powerful, but how you apply it might have an impact on the results you get.

In this blog, we will delve into understanding how to incorporate this in our skincare routine with other ingredients!

How to use retinol & different skin ingredients combinations?

Step 1: Cleanse your face properly.

Step 2: Allow a few minutes for your skin to dry completely. This is crucial because if your skin is even slightly moist, the retinol will be able to penetrate deeper into your skin and create discomfort. Moisturizers and serums should be applied on slightly damp skin, but never retinol

Step 3: Apply a tiny amount of your retinol serum with your fingertips in upward and outward motions, starting at your chin.Also if you are a beginner,Retinol is to applied by mixing it with a moisturizer

In case of layering, always start with the lightest consistency while layering your products, so start with the lightest one and work your way up. Before moving on to the next product, gently massage them into the skin and allow them to absorb.

Step 4: Apply your moisturiser to finish.

Step 5: Retinol makes skin more sensitive to the sun, so use a broad-spectrum water resistance face sunscreen the next morning.

How often to include retinol in your skincare routine?

It depends on the type of retinol you're using, the sensitivity of your skin, and the retinol percentage you're using. You should start by utilizing retinol once or twice a week and work your way up to using it more frequently.

The reason behind this is it’s a good idea to allow your skin some time to get used to the change in your regimen because retinol can be drying at first, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Start using retinol 2-3 times a week and gradually increase the frequency of usage to every day. If you have sensitive skin then be extra cautious in the initial few weeks.

Retinol should only be used at night, according to experts.

How to use retinol with different actives?

  1. With Niacinamide

    You can use retinol with niacinamide. Niacinamide has been proven to reduce redness, hyperpigmentation, and reduce pore size. Pore size is reduced by decreased production of glyceride, fatty acids, and sebum. Retinol also helps decrease pore size by controlling sebum production. Together, they help reduce pore size and smoothen your skin.
  2. With Peptides-

    Retinol and peptide serum works well on anti-aging & keeping the skin moisturized & firm. Retinol helps peptides penetrate the skin in a better way. Peptides counter retinol irritation by moisturizing the skin. Both together help to boost collagen production to keep skin firm & resilient.

FAQS

  1. CAN I USE BHA AND PEPTIDES TOGETHER?

Salicylic acid, a common beta hydroxy acid, should not be coupled with peptides. The capacity of these acids to break the bonds that make up the amino acid chains found in peptides is the reason behind this.

  1. WHAT GOES FIRST WITH RETINOL OR NIACINAMIDE?

Apply niacinamide in the morning and  retinol at night to avoid any potential conflicts between the two ingredients.

  1. CAN I USE RETINOL AND HYALURONIC ACID TOGETHER?

Yes, retinol can be combined with moisturizing agents like hyaluronic acid.

  1. CAN I USE RETINOL, NIACINAMIDE, AND HYALURONIC ACID TOGETHER?

Yes, these water-based treatments work well together and are suitable for all skin types, particularly dry, acne-prone skin.

  1. CAN YOU LAYER RETINOL AND NIACINAMIDE?

Yes, you can. If you're using these chemicals separately, apply the niacinamide first, then the retinol.

  1. HOW TO LAYER ALPHA ARBUTIN AND RETINOL?

Use alpha arbutin in the morning routine and retinol in the night routine because of its sensitivity to sunlight.
As always, ONLY combine the above ingredients as LONG as you don't experience any irritation or redness!