Can You Layer Niacinamide & Glycolic Acid Together?
People used to rely solely on one skincare ingredient, but over time, interest and awareness around skincare have increased. This leads to the practice of layering or combining two or more skincare ingredients. So, if you ask, “Can I combine niacinamide with glycolic acid?”, the short answer is yes.
However, the layering of these two ingredients requires precautions to avoid irritation risks. You need to be mindful of timing, layering order, and frequency of use. Read this blog to understand everything you need to know before trying this combination.
How Niacinamide Benefits You
Niacinamide can revitalise your skin from within by helping in keratin synthesis. The major benefits niacinamide can offer include;
- It can improve both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne by regulating the sebum.
- Niacinamide can soothe and calm skin redness, irritation, stinging sensation, itching and burning associated with conditions.
- Research indicates that niacinamide has antioxidant properties to help with wrinkles and hyperpigmented spots in ageing skin.
How Glycolic Acid Benefits You
Glycolic acid acts on the skin by dispelling the top layers of skin cells. Having the tiniest molecular structure, the glycolic acid can penetrate deep into the skin to provide the following major benefits;
- It can help with photo-ageing signs, like wrinkles, fine lines and hyperpigmentation.
- Consistent use of this potent acid can help you fight all acne types, including the comedonal acne.
- Glycolic acid is a capable chemical exfoliant and can improve the texture by removing dead cells.
Also Read: Glycolic Acid Vs Salicylic Acid: The Better Choice for Your Skin
Can We Use Niacinamide with Glycolic Acid
Yes, you can combine niacinamide with glycolic acid. That said, when and how you apply them is important because their pH levels differ. A safer option is to use them on alternate days, or apply one in the morning and the other at night on the same day, or keep at least a 30-minute gap between uses.
Niacinamide has a pH of 3.0 to 4.0, while glycolic acid's pH level is somewhere around 6.0. This difference in their pH levels makes them inefficient to work together. Mixing them can make them less effective and may not reap any synergetic benefits.
Niacinamide increases the pH levels of glycolic acid, making it less acidic. Together, they can irritate your skin and cause redness and inflammation. This can serve as a harsh combination for people with sensitive or reactive skin.
How to Combine Niacinamide with Glycolic Acid
You can layer niacinamide and glycolic acid alternatively to decrease the risk of irritation and skin barrier disruption. It's one of the safest and most effective ways.
On one day, use glycolic acid serum to gently exfoliate the skin and improve tone and texture. Glycolic acid is an exfoliant, so it's recommended to use it in the evening to avoid sun exposure.
Start with one to two times a week and observe your skin's behaviour. Gradually increase the frequency, or use as per your doctor's suggestion.
Continue with niacinamide the next day to help calm the skin, regulate oil production, strengthen the skin barrier, and reduce redness or sensitivity caused by exfoliation.
How to Use Niacinamide and Glycolic Acid on the Same Day
Niacinamide and glycolic acid can be used on the same day, but with some precautions. The best is to use niacinamide in the morning skincare regimen and glycolic acid in the nighttime routine. This can save you from any side effects of mixing them together.
Can I Use Niacinamide and Glycolic Acid in The Same Routine
Yes, you can use nicinamide and glycolic acid in the same routine. A safe and skin-friendly option is to use a serum infused with both niacinamide and glycolic acid.
Look for a serum with both ingredients formulated in balanced and compatible concentrations. Ensure that they are stabilised at a skin-friendly pH to avoid any stinging or irritation.
But if you’re using two different products, leave a gap of at least half an hour between applying the two ingredients. Start with glycolic acid and let it absorb entirely before using niacinamide to make them work efficiently.
If your skin is extremely sensitive, we recommend taking your doctor's advice before combining them.
Must Read: Can You Use Salicylic Acid with Niacinamide?
Renew & Glow: Niacinamide and Glycolic Acid Serum
DRSQ endows a product with a potent amalgamation of niacinamide and glycolic acid blended with other effective ingredients in Renew & Glow serum. It is a daily exfoliating serum that deals with uneven skin tone, fine lines & wrinkles, and pigmentation.
Renew & Glow softly exfoliates the skin and boosts cellular renewal, further reducing the signs of ageing on your skin. It deeply hydrates and gives a soothing effect. The product is recommended for individuals with inflamed, dry, pigmented skin, specifically, though it's compatible with all skin types in general.
Key Takeaways
- Niacinamide is a skin-revitalising ingredient offering multiple benefits, including anti-ageing, pore and dark spot reduction, and may help heal skin conditions like rosacea and eczema.
- Glycolic acid helps combat photoaging and acne. It is an excellent chemical exfoliant that can enhance your skin's glow.
- While you can use niacinamide with glycolic acid, mixing or layering them together is not recommended due to the difference in their pH levels.
- Either use them alternatively in a week or at different times of the day. Maintain a gap of at least 30 minutes after using one and another product including glycolic acid and niacinamide.
References:
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Rong Rong Ong, Choon Fu Goh, "Niacinamide: a review on dermal delivery strategies and clinical evidence", Dec
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Donald L Bissett, John E Oblong, Cynthia A Berge, "Niacinamide: A B vitamin that improves aging facial skin appearance", 2005 July
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Piyush Madaan, Priyanshi Sikka, Deepinder Singh Malik, "Cosmeceutical Aptitudes of Niacinamide: A Review", 2021
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Sheau-Chung Tang, Jen-Hung Yang, "Dual Effects of Alpha-Hydroxy Acids on the Skin", 2023 Apr
