In the world of skincare, many people often hear experts or influencers issue warnings about using certain ingredients together, citing reasons involving pH adjustments or potential interactions. However, today we aim to debunk these myths and reveal how to correctly and safely combine different effective ingredients to give your skin a healthy glow.
First and foremost, it’s important to understand the significance of active ingredients and how to choose them. During the skincare process, we should focus on the ingredients themselves rather than simply categorizing products by their type. Many brands use complex naming and packaging to classify products as toners, serums, lotions, etc., but what matters most is the actual active ingredients in these products.
Common skincare ingredients can be divided into five major categories: exfoliating agents (such as AHA and BHA), vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, vitamin A and its derivatives (like Retinol), and Niacinamide (vitamin B3). When these ingredients are used together, they can enhance each other’s effects and significantly help in addressing skin issues.
For instance, exfoliating ingredients such as glycolic acid and salicylic acid are excellent for removing dead skin cells, allowing subsequent skincare ingredients to penetrate better. When combined with vitamin C, they can enhance skin brightness and protective abilities. Hyaluronic acid is a hydrating powerhouse that draws moisture and helps maintain the skin’s hydration. When using hyaluronic acid, it’s best to apply a layer of moisturizing lotion on top to prevent moisture loss due to environmental factors.
Retinol is highly effective for anti-aging and improving acne scars. Although some experts recommend against using it with vitamin C, if the pH levels can be adjusted, these two can actually benefit each other when used together. Meanwhile, Niacinamide, due to its anti-inflammatory properties, can easily be combined with most ingredients, helping to keep the skin balanced.
The key to skincare is the order of application. It’s recommended to start with lighter products and gradually move to thicker ones. For example, begin with a watery toner, followed by a serum, and finally a cream. This method allows the skin to better absorb each layer of nutrients.
However, regardless of how high-quality the ingredients are, excessive use can be counterproductive. It’s advisable to avoid using too many new ingredients simultaneously, as this can lead to skin irritation or allergies. It is recommended to patch test new products before fully integrating them into your routine to ensure the skin can adapt before adding other ingredients.
Finally, for optimal absorption, it’s ideal to apply skincare products after cleansing the face when the skin is still slightly damp. This significantly boosts ingredient absorption efficiency, providing better skin care.