This archive report was first published on 10 May 2021.
With the numerous beauty products available in the market, treating skin problems such as pimples, hyperpigmentation, and acne can be a straightforward process. However, the problem arises when you find yourself treating the same issue for months with no results, which should be a red flag.
It is crucial to understand that different products are made of various ingredients, and when used together, they can either cancel each other out or react and cause irritation or breakouts. Therefore, it is essential to know which skin care products you can mix and which ones you should never layer up.
Just because a product worked for your friend doesn't mean it will work for your skin as well. It is vital to understand your skin problems, preferably with the help of a dermatologist, who will be better positioned to give you the best treatment.
Here are four popular products you should never combine together:
- Retinol and hydroxy acids
Retinol, a synthetic derivative of vitamin A, is a revered skin care treatment used primarily to treat acne, aging concerns, and improving the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone. It does this by boosting collagen production and improving cell turnover. However, when used together with an AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) product containing lactic or glycolic acid, they may overwork your skin by breaking down healthy cells, triggering a harsh reaction leading to sun sensitivity, peeling, and irritation.
- Vitamin C and soap cleansers
Vitamin C protects the skin from free radicals and should be used in the morning. When used religiously, it brightens the overall skin appearance and lightens dark spots as well. However, when you use vitamin C after washing your face with a soap-based cleanser, which has a much higher pH compared to that of the vitamin C, it decreases your skin's ability to absorb it.
- Oil-based and water-based products
Using oil-based and water-based products together can prevent your skin from absorbing water-based products, leaving a layer on your skin. What you should do instead is use the water-based products first, then apply the oil-based products on top.
- Vitamin C and niacinamide
Niacinamide, a water-soluble vitamin, works with natural substances found in your skin, delivering a litany of benefits, including boosting hydration, fading pigmentation, lessening discoloration, and diminishing enlarged skin pores. However, when mixed with vitamin C, it reduces the niacinamide efficacy, canceling each other out. If continuous use takes place, you may develop redness and breakouts.
