Skin care with brains: What is not compatible
The world of skincare is colourful and diverse - retinol, vitamin C, AHA, BHA, niacinamide & co. are available in countless products. But not all Skin care ingredients can be combined as desired. Some pairs of active ingredients can neutralise each other or even cause skin irritation.
Find out more in this article, Which combinations of active ingredients are better to avoidwhy this is the case - and which alternatives make sense.
Why combinations of active ingredients can be problematic
Active ingredients in skin care products have Different pH values, mechanisms of action and target layers in the skin. If they are combined incorrectly, this can lead to irritation, redness or dry skin. Some active ingredients even have the opposite effect or block each other's effect.
You should avoid these combinations of active ingredients
1. Retinol + AHA/BHA (fruit acids & salicylic acid)
Both active ingredients exfoliate the skin and stimulate cell renewal. Used together, however, this can lead to Severe irritation and increased sensitivity to light lead.
Tip:
Use alternately - e.g. retinol in the evening, AHA/BHA 2-3× per week.
2. Vitamin C + niacinamide
For a long time, this combination was considered counterproductive, as they can neutralise each other under certain conditions. Today, modern formulations make this possible to some extent - but Better to use separately for sensitive skin.
Tip:
Vitamin C in the morning, niacinamide in the evening - or in different products, staggered over time.
3. Benzoyl peroxide + retinol
This combination is extremely drying and irritating. Both are effective against acne, but together they often lead to Scaling, redness and barrier damage.
Tip:
Alternate application on different days. Always combine with moisturising care.
4. Vitamin C + AHA/BHA
Both vitamin C and fruit acids work in the acidic pH range. The simultaneous application can Destabilise pH value and reduce effectiveness.
Tip:
Vitamin C in the morning, AHA/BHA in the evening. Alternatively: A product with a stabilised vitamin C derivative.
5. Niacinamide + AHA/BHA in high concentrations
For sensitive skin, this combination can lead to Redness, burning and discomfort especially if the concentrations are high.
Tip:
Start with lower concentrations or use on separate days.
These combinations of active ingredients work well
Not all combinations are dangerous - on the contrary: some complement each other perfectly:
- Niacinamide + hyaluronic acid
- Retinol + ceramides
- Vitamin C + ferulic acid + vitamin E
- AHA/BHA + panthenol
Conclusion: combine skincare ingredients wisely
The right combination of active ingredients can transform your skin - but the wrong one can irritate and worsen it. Pay attention to the sequence, the pH value, the concentration and your individual skin tolerance. It's better to introduce it gradually and observe how your skin reacts.