Navigating Skincare: Products that Clash & How to Avoid Such Issues
Using just a cleanser and moisturizer is a good start but we can all agree that we have passed the basic level, yes? Great! We are being intentional with our skin, which means going through the right steps while using the right products. Now for someone new to skincare, I understand it could be overwhelming but don’t you worry I’ll keep it simple and healthy for you. It’s important to know what you are layering onto your skin that is knowing the content of the product aka ingredients/composition. This is because some product compositions clash with each other. Also, you could have almost the same ingredients in more than 1 product so you are better off using them one after the other.
The main reason why some of these products clash is due to their potency. Mixing such products diminishes the potency of these products thereby making them ineffective. Understanding how the ingredients work will avoid issues such as over-exfoliation, over-drying, or skin irritation.
Now let’s look at commonly used products: what compliments them and what they should not be mixed
1. Retinol or retinoid is a skincare product/ingredient that can make or mar your skin. When used properly you are in for a good testimonial! It is a derivative of vitamin A. It is a number one recommendation when it comes to anti ageing as it speeds up skin cell renewal that means it is great for acne as it will help with exfoliation and prevent clogged pores. This means that it could be very drying too.
Mix with hydrating and moisturizing products like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and of course SPF. Never you use your topical retinol/retinoids in your morning routine
Do not Mix: Avoid using benzoyl peroxide, vitamin c and AHA/BHA acids in the same routine. These products combined with Retinol/Retinoid can put a lot of pressure on the skin causing dryness.
2. Vitamin C is a key antioxidant meaning they are brighteners(not skin bleach). Also protects the skin from free radicals. They work very well in the morning.
Mix with vitamin E, SPF, ceramides, hyaluronic acid
Do not Mix with niacinamide serum(B5) both are power antioxidant but used together will bring down their potency. Also, do not mix with Retinol.
3. Alpha Hydrolic Acid(AHA) such as glycolic acid, lactic acid and Beta Hydrolic Acid(BHA) such as salicylic acid. These are best known for their exfoliating properties.
Mix with hydrating products and SPF to avoid sensitivity
Do not mix with retinol/retinoid
4. Using more than 1 product with the same active ingredients. While this will save a buck or more, there is no need using the same product in different names. Look at the contents of the products you are buying so you can make better choices with product selection
Skincare is not one size fits all that means what is working for your sister might not work for your girlfriend. It is important to talk with your esthetician or dermatologist so you both understand your skin needs. This will help to curate the proper products for your routine. It will also be safe to do a patch test before you commit to a product.
Your products should therefore complement each other and not clash.
What products are using that are your perfect combo?