Dermatologist Explains: How to Mix Skincare Ingredients

Summary

Dr. Dan, a board-certified dermatologist, explains which skincare ingredients can be safely mixed with retinoids. He discusses the compatibility of retinoids with ingredients like vitamin C, exfoliants, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and peptides, while emphasizing the importance of avoiding irritation. Dr. Dan also highlights the benefits of being consistent with a skincare routine and warns against mixing certain ingredients, especially at high concentrations. The video offers practical tips for layering products effectively and maintaining a skincare regimen that promotes healthy, glowing skin.

Takeaways

• 😀 Consistency is key for skincare, and it’s about long-term commitment rather than quick results.
• 😀 Retinoids can be mixed with certain ingredients like Vitamin C, but it’s best to do so cautiously and not daily.
• 😀 Vitamin C serums can be applied in the morning, while retinoids are typically used at night to avoid irritation.
• 😀 Retinoids and exfoliants like salicylic, lactic, or glycolic acid should not be mixed in leave-on formulations due to potential irritation.
• 😀 Benzoyl peroxide can be used alongside retinoids, but it's best as a cleanser rather than a leave-on treatment.
• 😀 Peptide-based moisturizers, like those with collagen peptides or lipids, work well with retinoids to enhance skin regeneration.
• 😀 Niacinamide can be mixed with retinoids as it’s anti-inflammatory and helps regulate oil production without causing irritation.
• 😀 Slugging with products like Vaseline over retinoids can increase irritation due to occlusion, so it’s not recommended.
• 😀 Hyaluronic acid serums can be used with retinoids, helping to hydrate and reduce irritation when applied before the retinoid.
• 😀 In colder months, using thicker creams like Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream with retinoids can provide extra hydration and protection from dryness.

Q & A

Can you mix Vitamin C with a retinoid?

Yes, you can mix Vitamin C with a retinoid if you're an advanced user and don't have sensitive skin. However, it's recommended to use them on different days or in the morning and night routine to avoid irritation.

Is it okay to use a retinoid with exfoliants like salicylic acid or glycolic acid?

It's best to avoid mixing retinoids with leave-on exfoliants like salicylic acid or glycolic acid. Instead, look for products that combine both ingredients, like Alpharet, or use exfoliating cleansers followed by a retinoid.

Can you use benzoyl peroxide with a retinoid?

While it's generally not recommended to layer benzoyl peroxide with a retinoid due to potential irritation, it's fine to use a cleanser with benzoyl peroxide before applying the retinoid, as long as it's washed off.

What is the best type of moisturizer to use with a retinoid?

Moisturizers with peptides, like those from Olay or SkinFix, are excellent choices when using a retinoid. Peptides help with collagen production, which complements the effects of the retinoid.

Can you use niacinamide with a retinoid?

Yes, niacinamide can be used with a retinoid. It has anti-inflammatory properties, can regulate sebum production, and is often included in retinol formulations to enhance skin tolerance.

What is the effect of slugging (using petroleum jelly) over a retinoid?

Slugging over a retinoid is not recommended as it may cause the retinoid to penetrate too deeply into the skin, potentially leading to irritation. It's better to apply a small amount of petroleum jelly after applying the retinoid, not directly over it.

Can you combine hyaluronic acid with retinol?

Yes, you can combine hyaluronic acid with retinol. Using a hyaluronic acid serum before your retinol application helps hydrate the skin and can be part of a layering routine to minimize irritation.

How should you apply retinoids if you're just starting out?

Start with a small amount of retinoid, apply it to dry skin, and follow it up with a moisturizer. For sensitive skin, you can sandwich the retinoid by applying a layer of moisturizer first, then the retinoid, and another layer of moisturizer.

Should you use a retinoid during the day?

Retinoids are best used at night because they can increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun. Even photo-stable retinoids are recommended for nighttime use to avoid potential irritation from sunlight.

Can you mix all your skincare ingredients in one jar to use together?

It's not advisable to mix all your skincare ingredients in one jar, as it could affect their potency and shelf life. It's best to apply each product separately rather than combining them.