Can you safely combine Niacinamide with Retinol?

Welcome, beauties and skincare lovers! Today, we’re talking about a hot topic in the world of skincare – using niacinamide with retinol. These two ingredients are popular and effective in their own right, but can they really be used together? Let’s find out in this comprehensive guide.

The Benefits of Niacinamide and Retinol

Before we dive into whether or not these two ingredients can be combined, let’s briefly discuss their benefits.

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that is known for its ability to brighten and even out skin tone, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and minimize pores. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness and soothe sensitive skin. Some of our favorite niacinamide products include The Ordinary’s Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% and Cosrx Galactomyces 95 Tone Balancing Essence.

Retinol, on the other hand, is a form of vitamin A that is touted for its ability to increase cell turnover, boost collagen production, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. It can also help with acne-prone skin and hyperpigmentation. Some of the most popular retinol products include The Inkey List’s Retinol and Sunday Riley’s A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum.

Can You Use Niacinamide with Retinol?

Now, on to the big question – can you use niacinamide with retinol? The short answer is yes! There is no evidence to suggest that using these two ingredients together is harmful or ineffective. In fact, some studies suggest that niacinamide can enhance the effectiveness of retinol.

That being said, some people may experience sensitivity or irritation when using these two ingredients together, especially if they have sensitive skin or are new to using retinol. If you’re using both niacinamide and retinol for the first time, it’s a good idea to start slowly and gradually increase the frequency of use over time.

How to Use Niacinamide and Retinol Together

If you want to incorporate both niacinamide and retinol into your skincare routine, there are a few things to keep in mind. First of all, make sure you’re using a high-quality product that contains a significant amount of each ingredient. Additionally, it’s important to use these two ingredients at different times of the day.

We recommend using niacinamide in the morning, as it can help protect your skin from environmental stressors and create a smooth base for makeup application. Retinol, on the other hand, should be used at night, as it can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.

It’s also a good idea to use a moisturizer or oil to help soothe and hydrate your skin after using these two ingredients. Some great moisturizers to pair with niacinamide and retinol include CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion and The Ordinary’s Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, using niacinamide with retinol is not only safe, but it can also be beneficial for your skin. These two ingredients work together to create a powerful anti-aging and brightening effect. Just remember to start slowly and be mindful of any sensitivity or irritation.