12 May 2025 10:45
💆🏻♀️🧴✨As a cosmetic scientist, I often come across people unknowingly combining active ingredients that either cancel each other out or lead to irritation.
Here’s a quick guide on what not to mix — your skin will thank you!
1. Retinol + Benzoyl Peroxide ❌
Both treat acne effectively, but together they can cause severe dryness and irritation.
2. Vitamin C + AHAs/BHAs ⚠️
Acids destabilize Vitamin C, reducing its potency and increasing the risk of sensitivity.
3. Retinol + AHAs/BHAs 🛑
Too much exfoliation! Both promote cell turnover, and combining them can over strip your skin.
4. Retinol + Vitamin C ⛔️
Two strong ingredients for pigmentation, but used together, they can be too harsh and drying.
5. Benzoyl Peroxide + Hydroquinone 🔥
This pairing increases the risk of inflammation and long-term sensitivity.
6. Soap Cleansers + Vitamin C 🚫
The high pH of soap neutralizes Vitamin C’s effectiveness.
📚📌Pro Tip:
Use actives at different times (e.g., Vitamin C in the morning ☀️, Retinol at night 🌙) to maximize results while keeping your skin barrier healthy.
Educated skincare = effective skincare!