Can You Mix AHA and Niacinamide Skincare Ingredients Together?

Can You Use AHA and Niacinamide Together?

With so many different active skincare ingredients available, it can get confusing trying to figure out what can and can't be used together. Two popular ingredients, AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) and niacinamide, are often questioned if they can be combined in the same skincare routine.

What are AHAs?

AHAs are a group of acids that exfoliate the top layer of skin to reveal newer, fresher skin underneath. Some common types of AHAs include:

• Glycolic acid
• Lactic acid
• Mandelic acid
• Citric acid

Using AHAs can improve skin texture, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, fade hyperpigmentation and help with breakouts. They work by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells on the surface so the skin can shed easier.

What is Niacinamide?

Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide or vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin that has many benefits when applied topically to skin. It's gaining popularity in skincare products as a versatile ingredient that can:

• Minimize pores
• Improve skin elasticity
• Even out skin tone
• Reduce fine lines and wrinkles
• Calm inflammation and redness

Unlike AHAs that work on the skin's surface, niacinamide penetrates deeper into the skin to provide those nourishing benefits.

Can You Use Them Together?

The big question is, can AHA and niacinamide be used together? The short answer is yes!

While there used to be some conflicting theories on combining these two ingredients, most skincare experts now agree that AHAs and niacinamide are fine to use together and can even be quite beneficial when layered properly.

The Controversy Explained

Previously, there were some reports that using AHA and niacinamide together could cause skin flushing or redness. This is because AHAs and niacinamide can convert to niacin when mixed, which may cause temporary skin irritation.

However, further research showed that this reaction is unlikely to occur at the right pH levels. Most properly formulated skincare products will not trigger this converting reaction.

How to Layer AHA and Niacinamide

For best results, use AHAs and niacinamide at different steps of your skincare routine. Here are some tips on how to layer them:

• Use your AHA exfoliant first to remove dead skin cells so the niacinamide can better penetrate and work its magic.
• Wait 10-20 minutes after applying AHA before layering on niacinamide to be extra safe about potential interactions.
• Use niacinamide in your serum after your AHA exfoliant but before heavier moisturizers.
• Pay attention to how your skin reacts over time, but most skin types handle the combo well when applied properly.

The Benefits of Using Both Together

When used together correctly, AHAs and niacinamide can provide a powerhouse combo with enhanced benefits:

• More exfoliation and cell turnover: The AHA loosens and removes dead skin cells so newer cells can rise while niacinamide speeds up cell metabolism and renewal underneath.
• Improved tone and texture: Over time, the combo greatly improves uneven tone and smooths rough texture for a youthful glow.
• Brighter, firmer skin: Niacinamide builds firmer skin with improved elasticity while the AHA scarless and evens tone.
• Less visible pores: Dry, flaky skin can make pores more noticeable. This combo works together to gently resurface while hydrating skin and minimizing pores.
• Calms breakouts and redness: AHAs prevent dead cell and oil buildup inside pores to discourage breakouts while niacinamide soothes and heals red inflamed pimples.

The Best AHA and Niacinamide Products

Here are some excellent products that feature both AHAs and niacinamide to try:

1. Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 10% AHA + Niacinamide Exfoliant

This leave-on exfoliating fluid contains a 10% glycolic acid AHA + niacinamide to gently shed skin cells and even tone without redness or irritation. The formula also includes soothing licorice and green tea.

2. Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow AHA Night Treatment

This sleeping mask gives a gentle lactic acid AHA peel along with niacinamide to refine skin texture overnight. Soothing watermelon, hyaluronic acid and amino acids also provide deep hydration.

3. The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

This is a budget-friendly pick with a glycolic acid AHA + niacinamide. The liquid exfoliant helps unclog pores, even skin texture and tone without irritation or dryness.

4. Paulas Choice RESIST Skin Revealing 10% AHA Lotion EXFOLIANT + Niacinamide

Another Paulas Choice option, this lotion combines 10% AHA blend with niacinamide to smooth fine lines, improve firmness, shrink enlarged pores, even out skin tone and enhance clarity.

Is My Skin Compatible?

Make sure to slowly introduce AHA and niacinamide products if you're new to these actives. Using one product with them both can be a great way to assess compatibility.

AHAs and niacinamides are generally well tolerated by most skin types. However those with very sensitive skin can experience redness and irritation with overuse of AHAs. Discontinue use if any burning or stinging occurs.

Its also ideal not to use other potentially irritating ingredients like retinoids or benzoyl peroxide at the same time as AHAs. Pay attention to how your unique skin reacts over time.

The Bottom Line

Yes, for most skin types, AHA exfoliants and niacinamide serums or moisturizers can safely be combined as part of your regular skincare routine. Just be sure to layer them properly by applying the AHA first and waiting before using niacinamide.

When used together consistently, AHAs like glycolic or lactic acid along with niacinamide can improve many common skin concerns for a brighter, smoother and more even complexion! Finding the right AHA/niacinamide combo product tailored for your skin can provide gorgeous results over time.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.