admin 
Can glycolic acid and niacinamide be used together?
I’ve already said this, but I’ll repeat it for those of you in the back. Can Glycolic Acid and Niacinamide be used together? Yes, they can!
However, there are some misconceptions about using the two together that you should avoid to avoid skin irritation and unhappiness.
Let’s explore why combining glycolic acid and niacinamide is a good idea and how to pair them for maximum effectiveness.
Glycolic Acid and Niacinamide: Why do they work?
Glycolic acid and niacinamide are two ingredients that don’t disappoint. But why should you consider using these two ingredients together?
Combined, these two ingredients synergistically enhance each other’s effectiveness.
Niacinamide repairs the skin, making it strong and elastic so it can withstand the powerful exfoliating effects of glycolic acid. Glycolic acid removes dead skin cells and then niacinamide soothes and strengthens new skin.
The combination of Glycolic Acid and Niacinamide also enhances efficacy against hyperpigmentation, skin aging, uneven skin tone and texture.
How to Combine Glycolic Acid and Niacinamide?
There are a few things to consider before deciding to mix glycolic acid and niacinamide.
First, these two active ingredients have distinctly different pH levels. Glycolic acid works best in an acidic environment between 2.8 and 3.8. In contrast, niacinamide is alkaline, with an optimal pH of 5-7.
Mixing glycolic acid and niacinamide can cancel each other out due to pH incompatibility. In addition, it increases the chances of niacinamide causing an adverse reaction known as “niacinamide flushing”.
Normally, niacinamide has a neutral pH, but under acidic conditions it is converted to niacin, another form of vitamin B3. niacin flushing is characterized by a temporary heat, redness and flushing of the skin due to the release of prostaglandin D2. It will go away, but it’s not pretty…
Therefore, do not try to mix glycolic acid and niacinamide. Read on to learn how to mix them efficiently and safely:
Finding products that contain both glycolic acid and niacinamide
Glycolic acid and niacinamide cannot be mixed, but scientifically formulated products can! These carefully formulated products prioritize stability and efficacy, and often publish pH values.
It’s important to note that while they offer convenience as an all-in-one solution, the active ingredients may be slightly less potent and the pH may not be as ideal as the individual products.
Fantastic product with Glycolic Acid and Niacinamide:
●COSRX AHA 7 Whitehead Intense Lotion
●Versed Weekend Glow Daytime Illuminating Lotion
● Kate Somerville KateCeuticals Overnight Peeling Exfoliant
●L’Oreal Paris Glycolic Acid Brightening Daily Foaming Cleanser
Use in different skincare routines
Instead of risking using both skincare products in the same routine, use niacinamide in the morning and glycolic acid at night. This way, they won’t compete for absorption into the skin and won’t increase the chances of “niacin flushing”.
It is recommended to use glycolic acid at night because it can sensitize the skin to sun exposure. Depending on your skin’s specific needs, you can use niacinamide in the morning and at night.
Overnight use
Another method is to alternate between glycolic acid and niacinamide. For example, use niacinamide after cleansing your face one night and use glycolic acid the next night.
Remember, you can use niacinamide both morning and evening. However, glycolic acid is safer to use when not exposed to direct sunlight.
Layer properly
You can use glycolic acid and niacinamide in the same program. However, it is vital to layer both products correctly.
When layering skin care products, start with the lowest pH. This is glycolic acid, which is applied directly after cleansing. Allow it to remain on the skin for 30 minutes.
A 30-minute interval between applications is absolutely essential. This time allows the skin’s pH to return to its natural level and prepare it to receive Niacinamide.
That’s it! Using a combination of Glycolic Acid and Niacinamide in your skincare routine maximizes the benefits of both ingredients for smoother, brighter, healthier skin.
Safety Tips for Glycolic Acid and Niacinamide Combinations
Glycolic acid and niacinamide are a match made in heaven, but as you may have noticed, there are some warnings you should heed when using them together:
● Never, never, never mix the two.
● Always wait at least 30 minutes after applying glycolic acid before applying niacinamide.
● Avoid using glycolic acid in the morning unless you’re wearing sunscreen and a chic hat.
Conclusion The Impact of Glycolic Acid and Niacinamide
When it comes to skin care, ingredients matter. Glycolic acid and niacinamide are two powerful ingredients that can provide great benefits to your skin. Combined, these two ingredients can have an even greater impact!
When used properly, glycolic acid and niacinamide can effectively complement each other. Glycolic acid exfoliates and prepares the skin first, allowing Niacinamide to penetrate deeper into the skin and work more effectively.
Used together, Glycolic Acid and Niacinamide can provide a balanced, effective skincare regimen. Why not give it a try? With consistent use and patience, you’ll begin to see the radiant, healthy skin you’ve always dreamed of.
