Niacinamide and AHA are great for your skin, but can you use them together?
The short answer is yes. Niacinamide and AHA can be used together safely and effectively in any skincare routine.
Keep reading to know what these ingredients are, why they work so well together, and how to incorporate them into your skincare routine.
What is niacinamide?
Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide, is a form of vitamin B3. You can find it in skincare products such as serums and creams and it’s generally safe for all skin types.
Niacinamide has a wide range of benefits, including helping to improve skin texture and brighten the complexion. It also helps regulate oil production and may help protect the skin from environmental damage such as sun exposure.
What are AHAs?
AHAs, or Alpha Hydroxy Acids, are a group of naturally occurring acids that are commonly available in skin care products.
They work by exfoliating the outermost layer of skin to unclog pores. AHAs can also help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines by improving the skin’s elasticity.
Can you use niacinamide with AHA?
Yes, you absolutely can.
Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that helps to balance oil production, improve skin texture, and brighten the complexion. AHA is an acid that helps to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores.
Combining these two ingredients can help to clear up acne, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and improve skin tone and texture.
How to use niacinamide with AHA
If you want to incorporate both niacinamide and AHA into your skincare routine, here are the proper steps to take:
- Start by cleansing your skin with a gentle cleanser and applying a toner.
- Then, apply a thin layer of your niacinamide product to your entire face, avoiding the eyes and lips.
- Wait at least 5 minutes for the product to fully penetrate your skin before applying a thin layer of your AHA product.
- Finally, moisturize your skin and apply sunscreen as AHAs can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun.
NOTE: When using these ingredients together, it’s important to do a patch test first to make sure that your skin does not react negatively.
Additionally, it’s best to start with small concentrations of each ingredient and gradually increase the amount as your skin adjusts.
Side effects of using niacinamide with AHA
There are several potential side effects associated with using niacinamide with AHA.
Some people may experience irritation, redness, dryness, or flaking of the skin. It’s also possible to develop contact dermatitis, which is an allergic reaction to the ingredients in the products.
Long-term use of high concentrations of both ingredients can also lead to increased sensitivity to sunlight. To reduce the risk of experiencing these side effects, it’s important to use the products as directed and always wear sunscreen when going outside.
What should you not use with niacinamide?
When using niacinamide, there are a few ingredients you should avoid.
Niacinamide reacts poorly with vitamin C, so it’s best to use them separately. You should also avoid using this form of vitamin B3 with retinol and prescription retinoids. These ingredients can irritate and might reduce the efficacy of niacinamide.
Additionally, you should avoid using niacinamide with benzoyl peroxide, as it can cause skin discoloration. It’s always a good idea to check the ingredients list on any product before using it, and if in doubt, consult a dermatologist.
Frequently asked questions
Can you use niacinamide with AHA on oily skin?
Yes, you can.
Combining these two ingredients can be beneficial for those with oily or acne-prone skin, as it provides a double-action approach. Niacinamide helps to regulate oil production, while AHA exfoliates the skin and unclogs pores.
Are AHAs safe for all skin types?
Yes, they are.
AHAs are generally considered to be safe for all skin types, although they can cause irritation or redness in some individuals. For this reason, it’s important to start slowly by introducing AHAs into your skincare routine and increase usage gradually.
Is niacinamide good for wrinkles?
Yes, it is.
Niacinamide can help improve skin texture, making it an excellent choice for anyone with wrinkles, fine lines, or saggy skin. It can also help brighten skin tone and reduce the risk of sun damage, making it a great choice for those who spend a lot of time outdoors.
Conclusion
Niacinamide and AHA are two skincare ingredients that, when used together, can help to make your skin look healthier and brighter.
When using these two ingredients, always apply your niacinamide product first, and wait for it to dry before applying your AHA product. Additionally, start with low concentrations of both ingredients and gradually increase to high concentrations over time.
This will help your skin adjust to the ingredients and avoid any adverse reactions.
Thanks for reading.
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