How to Layer Active Ingredients: Niacinamide, Vitamin C, AHA/BHA, Retinols & More!

Summary

This video offers valuable insights into skincare routines, focusing on the importance of ingredient combinations, absorption times, and common issues like pilling. The hosts explain how to layer active ingredients safely for maximum benefit, advising viewers to allow products time to sink in before applying the next one. They highlight the need to be cautious with products containing retinol and vitamin C due to their instability. The video encourages a personalized approach to skincare, based on individual skin types and the ingredients used, while providing practical tips to avoid common skincare mistakes.

Takeaways

• 😀 Vitamin A (retinoids) helps increase cell turnover, smooth fine lines, and fight acne, but can be drying, so pair with hydration.
• 😀 Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is a versatile ingredient that balances sebum, reduces redness, and improves skin texture, suitable for most skin types.
• 😀 Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) brightens skin, boosts collagen, and fights free radicals, but its pure form is unstable, so use derivatives if you have sensitive skin.
• 😀 AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) are exfoliants that help remove dead skin cells and improve texture, with glycolic acid being the most potent.
• 😀 BHAs (beta hydroxy acids) are oil-soluble exfoliants ideal for acne-prone skin as they penetrate deeper into pores to dissolve excess sebum and bacteria.
• 😀 Pairing Vitamin C with Hyaluronic Acid enhances both hydration and skin brightening effects, especially for dehydrated skin.
• 😀 Azelaic acid pairs well with Vitamin C to calm inflammation, fight acne-causing bacteria, and treat hyperpigmentation gently.
• 😀 Retinol and Niacinamide make a great combination for sensitive skin, with Niacinamide helping to reduce irritation and support skin barrier function.
• 😀 Pilling can happen if products don’t have enough time to absorb into the skin—wait 10-30 seconds between layers to avoid this.
• 😀 For an effective skincare routine, layer products from thinnest to thickest texture (e.g., toner first, then moisturizers or oils).

Q & A

What is the key to avoiding pilling when layering skincare products?

Pilling usually occurs when products don't fully absorb before the next layer is applied. To avoid this, allow each product to sink in for about 10 to 30 seconds before moving on to the next. This gives your skin enough time to absorb each product properly.

How should you layer skincare products for optimal results?

Layer products from thinnest to thickest. Start with light, watery formulas like toners and serums, followed by thicker creams or oils. This ensures each product is absorbed effectively and doesn’t interfere with the others.

Why is it important to be mindful of the order in which you apply skincare products?

The order of application affects how well each product penetrates the skin. Thin products need to be applied first to ensure that thicker products don't block them from absorbing. Applying products in the right order ensures maximum effectiveness.

What can cause irritation when using certain skincare ingredients?

Irritation can happen if strong actives, like Retinol or AHAs, are overused or combined with other harsh ingredients. Sensitive skin types should start with lower concentrations or buffer strong actives with soothing ingredients like Niacinamide or Hyaluronic Acid.

Can I combine Vitamin C with other active ingredients in my routine?

Yes, Vitamin C can be safely combined with other ingredients like Vitamin E, Ferulic Acid, and Hyaluronic Acid. However, avoid mixing it with highly acidic ingredients or Retinol as it can destabilize the Vitamin C and reduce its effectiveness.

What is the best way to incorporate Retinol into a skincare routine?

Retinol should be applied at night after cleansing, as it can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Start with a lower concentration to build tolerance and always follow with a moisturizer to prevent dryness or irritation.

Why do certain skincare products or ingredients cause pilling?

Pilling happens when products don't mix well together, often due to incompatible ingredients, or if they haven't had enough time to fully absorb before the next layer is applied. Ingredients like silicones can sometimes cause this, especially if layered too quickly.

What should you do if your skin is reacting negatively to a product?

If your skin becomes irritated or uncomfortable, reduce the frequency of the active ingredients you're using, or try layering soothing products like Niacinamide or Hydrating Serums to calm the skin. Always patch-test new products to avoid reactions.

Can you mix Niacinamide with other skincare actives like Vitamin C or Retinol?

Yes, Niacinamide is generally well-tolerated with many actives, including Vitamin C and Retinol. It’s a calming ingredient that can help reduce irritation caused by stronger actives, making it a great choice for sensitive skin or beginners.

How much time should you leave between applying each skincare step?

Give each product about 10 to 30 seconds to absorb before applying the next one. This ensures the active ingredients in your skincare have time to penetrate your skin and do their job effectively without being diluted or interrupted.