Mix And Match: The Skincare Ingredients You Should Never Use Together

439 Comments on Mix And Match: The Skincare Ingredients You Should Never Use Together

1. Bookmarked!

   • Ana, glad you find it useful. 🙂

   • I use a retinol in the night. In the morning,I apply vitamin c serum. Is this wrong ? If yes so, what is the best way to get the benifit of two?

     • Reem, I do the same too, so no, that’s not wrong. Just applying sunscreen after vitamin C and you’ll be fine.

   • Hi, thanks for your great info! I would really love a bit of advice please?? About 6 weeks ago I started a new regime..I began using a tretinion every third night, vitamin c 20% serum in the evening (not on retin nights) and a cerave pm cream morning and night that has niacinamide in, and my skin has broke out worse than ever??? I thought this may happen but decided to stick at it thinking I’d get past this messy stage but It’s still exactly the same?? I’m thinking am I allergic to one of them? How would I know which one? I’ve loved reasearching all these amazing ingredients and couldn’t wait to get started and I’m hugely disappointed in my poor faces reaction!!! I have sensitive oily skin. Any advice very much appreciated xx

     • Louise, there can be a purging period with tretinoin but after 6 weeks it should have stopped. This makes me think that at least one of the products may have comedogenic ingredients. Here’s a list of them: http://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/what-ingredients-are-comedogenic/

       Check if any of the products have any highly comedogenic ingredients in them. If so, stop using it straight away. In the meantime, you can exfoliaute with salicylic acid to help the breakouts disappear faster. Hope this helps.

   • I thought ret. And benzoyl peroxide were good to use together esp. For acne…there is something dermatologist prescribe called Epiduo…and it is just that benzoyl peroxide with adapaline which is the main component on differin another retinoid product

     • Stephanie, I know some prescription treatments use them together but there is a reason why they are prescription. My main objection to using them together is that it may be too irritating hence why it should be prescribed by a professional only.

2. I did not know that about niacinamide! Yikes. I’ll have to be sure to use it in the evening only since I use my vitamin C serum in the morning.

   • Laurie, not many people know that, but that niacinamide is so underrated. Shame, cos it’s one of the best ingredients you can use for your skin. Using it at night is certainly a good idea.

     • Hi! Love the blog! I’m trying to figure out my skincare regime… can you use niacinimide with AHA/BHA?

       I currently use them at night and vitamin c in the morning, and am looking to introduce both retinol and niacinimide in my regime but I’m not sure how to best combine for AM and PM routines.

       • Ylva, thanks! Yes, you can use niacinamide with AHA, so at night it would be perfect.

3. Just to add: When you mix a bit of vitamin E into the niacinamide and vitamin C (in case you’ve combined them), it may prevent some of the degradation and stabilize the vitamin C.

   • Hélianthe, good point, thanks for sharing that.

4. Very informative! Thank you!
   A quick question: does niacinamide also interfere with vitamin c- derivates like tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate? I’m womdering because Paula’s Choice has some products witch combine niacinamide with this derivate.

   • Fabienne, yes, the problem can still occur, but more slowly. But, after reading this today http://www.kindofstephen.com/post/141145450693/can-you-use-niacinamide-and-vitamin-c-ascorbic, I don’t think there’s much to worry about. The two vitamins only make each other a bit less effective rather than completely useless.

5. http://www.kindofstephen.com/post/141145450693/can-you-use-niacinamide-and-vitamin-c-ascorbic

   • Chris, thanks so much for sharing that. I’ll add it to the post.

     • Can you tell me about mixing several peptides together with eco friendly extracts

       • Marita, there’s nothing wrong with that. These ingredients are often used together. Hope that answers your question.

6. Thank you for this amaZing info blogg about skincare.
   I use PC Clinical Retinol at night ,and in the morning Transderma C,Transderma im suprised so few have written about,.Checjhk it out,itsthe måste PURE products out there,its expensive,but for ONCE ,and i meanONCE ,an expensive product was realyyyy goood.
   They also have tTransderma M,wich contains:Squalane,Cholestrol/Lanosterol,Esters,Alpha-To hopherol,Ceramde 3,Ceramide 5,Phytosphingsine.
   That is a serum i love!
   So there are few but really good products.
   About PC,they have a veeery high standard too a good price.
   Have a nice day from Sweden.

   • Sasha, thanks for the recommendation. I don’t think I have ever seen Transderma around, but I will look for them. The serum sounds really good. I am a fan of PC too. Incredible formulas at affordable prices. What’s not to love?

7. Wow Gio, this is so informative! Thank you! i printed it out.

   • Cat, you’re welcome. Glad you find it useful.

8. Thanks to share the knowledge about vit c and niacinamise, i have been using both those ingredients, maybe i will use one at day and one at night.

   • Julina, my pleasure.

9. Wonderful article thank you. What about Vitamin C and Glycolic acid? Do AHAs change the ph balance for vitamin C when used together?

   Also, I’ve been using Vit C + Glycolic acid during the day. I’ve heard conflicting info saying avoid using glycolic acid during day even with SPF 30+ as it may cause sun damage. How much risk is there(if any) using glycolic acid with SPF during the day?

   • CK, the reason why most people say you shouldn’t use glycolic acid in the morning is because we rarely apply the amount of sunscreen needed to achieve the level of protection on the label. And even if we do, we don’t reapply it throughout the day. It’s better to use it at night and stick to vitamin C in the morning.

10. Some of these are myths that The Cosmetics Cop debunks on their site. They do reference the flawed scientific study that have led to these myths. However, it’s important to note the type of Renitol/Vit A used does make a difference.

    • Catharine, thanks for your comments. I’ve seen different experts express different opinions by citing different sources. In any case, most of these ingredients are too strong to be used together for most skincare, so I prefer to use them separately anyway.

11. Hi Gio, how about using together vitamin c such as l ascorbic acid or ascorbyl methylsilanol pectinate with an acid like aha/bha/pha?

    • Hi Valiant, I ‘m not a big fan of using them together but that’s more because these ingredients are powerful and can be too much for the skin all at once. I prefer to use them on separate days.

      • Thanks for the advice gio and how about mixing aha/bha together? I saw a brand like cosrx combine aha and bha together and i also saw a brand like paula’s choice who separated those acid.

        • Valiant, those acids both exfoliate skin. The difference is that glycolic also hydrates it, so it’s great for dry skin, while salicylic unclogs the pores, so it’s best for oily skin. If you have combination skin, it makes sense to use an exfoliant with both acids. Or to use them on alternate days. Otherwise, just pick the one that best suits your skin type.

12. Hi thank you for the answer. If i had another question, can i ask you by email?

    • Valant, you’re welcome. And yes, of course.

      • Hello, is the topic of Retin A, vitamin c, niacinamide, and such still a conversation on here? I’m so confused I could just toss it all and go back to being foot loose and fancy free. lol Actually I love skincare but have not always taken good care of my skin. I’m not taking care of it and will be a lifer now…since it’s half over already. I hope this conversation is still alive today because I could use some advice. Namaste!

        • Amy, of course. If you have any questions, ask away! I always reply to comments on old posts too, even though it may take me a couple of days sometimes.

          • Hi Gio,

            I want start using Niacinamide and Retinol serums at night and a moisturiser as well… How should I go about?
            Not sure what product to put first after I wash my face – How long to wait between each product etc
            Also just want to make sure if this wont be to strong for my skin?

13. Hi, thanks a lot for the info! I am wondering if I am using MAP , then can I apply B3 serum right after or before it ?
    Thanks

    • Renee, hi and you’re welcome. Yes, you can use them together but I’d wait a few minutes between the two to give the time to the first product to fully absorb before you apply the next one. Hope it helps.

14. Thanks for the great article, I was thinking of adding Vitamin C to my routine but seeing how I already have retinol maybe I’ll find something else. Is niacinamide okay to use with retinol?

    • Sarah, my pleasure. Yes, you can use niacinamide with retinol. If your skin needs the extra help, you can add vitamin C too. Just alternate between the serum (ie, one day retinol, the next vitamin c).

15. Where is the research that says that retinol and BHAs/AHAs can’t be used together? We already know that separately each of these ingredients will increase skins sun sensitivity, so combining them doesn’t seem like an issue.

    • Chris, some people think they can’t be used together because of the ph differences but I don’t agree with that. My issue is that both these ingredients can cause sun sensitivity, flakiness and irritations, especially at first. Imo, it’s best to use them separately to avoid any potential issues, especially if you have dry/sensitive skin.

16. Hi!
    Great article but the statements regarding mixing Niacinamide and Vitamin C need clarification. Pure Niacinamide is actually bright yellow and that contributes to the coloring of mixture with Vitamin C. Also if a product contains a unstable form of Vitamin C you should not even purchase it as it will weaken and discolor when the first bit of air hits it. There are many forms of stabilized C that are the ideal choices when shopping for serum and those stable forms are those that will work and will NOT interact with Niacinamide. The combination of these 2 antioxidants are the BEST combination for actually reversing photo damaged skin as well as evening tone and stimulating cells to a collagen producing state. I really just wanted to clarify as there were a couple of erroneous articles written regarding the 2 that had absolutely no scientific support of their thesis on the subject. I would not want anyone who is truly looking for substantial results overlook the combination of stable C with Niacinamide. I suggest to my patients that they do their homework and choose a serum that already contain both of these superior actives as we have had tremendous results with treatments that have both already in their formula. The reason I say to find a product that has both is that they have the correct stable c that will play very nicely with the Niacinamide (B3) (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16029679

    • Dr Rowett, thanks so much for your comments and your clarification. It’s good to know that there are ways to use these two powerful actives together.

      • Hello! Thank you so much for this article. I’m curious if it’s safe to use Drunk Elephant’s C-Firma Day Serum (15% l-ascorbic acid) with niacinamide, or if I should wait 30 minutes in between. I’m not sure if that particular vitamin C product is considered stabilized, but the serum is contained in an airless pump.

        • Dinah, it’s safe to use them together. The reaction I’m talking about occurs so slowly, it won’t be a problem for skin. But you can wait or use one in the morning and the other at night if you’re still concerned about it.

          • Thank you for your swift reply, Gio! That’s good to know. So glad I came across your blog. Take care, and thanks again for your help!

            • Dinah, my pleasure and thanks for your kind words. So thrilled you like my blog!

17. http://www.paulaschoice-eu.com/expert-advice/6-retinol-myths-busted.html
    What’s your take on this?

    • Ayu, thanks for bringing that to my attention. I don’t think the ph issues are as bad as some think and I agree with Paula that you could use them together but they’re all pretty powerful ingredients. Using them separately may be best or they may cause irritations.

18. Hi, this post is super helpful! I’m currently using retinol serum on a nightly basis but once I hit the 12-week mark, I’m thinking about alternating nightly between my retinol and a vitamin c serum. Would I reap the benefits of both if I use retinol one night and vitamin c the next?

    xo, Laura

    • Laura, that’s what I do. Actually, I alternate between vitamin C, glycolic acid and retinol. That way I can get all their benefits without the potentially drying side effects. So, yeah, you can do that without compromising their efficacy. 🙂

19. Can you use a retinol with niacinamide?

    • Julie, yes you can.

      • Yes, you can meaning they will not weaken their state? I use a product called Hada Labo super hyaluronic acid. I’m sure it has other ingredients but I cannot read the language…it’s from Japan. I wonder if it is in a product with other ingredients if that would be OK. I’m not really making sense here. I’ve read to much I think and now I’m just a little brain fogged. There is so much to learn.

        • Amy, yes, you can use them together without compromising their effectiveness.

          Hyaluronic acid plays well with most ingredients so I wouldn’t worry about it too much.

20. AHA/BHA products can be used with Retinol if your skin has a high tolerance to them. I use them together with no adverse effects but my skin is used to acids. I do make sure to ALWAYS wear a high spf. Everyday, no matter conditions.

    • Gwen, thanks for the tip. I don’t like to mix them because I think they’re too much for most people but if you can take it, why not?

21. So it’s okay to mix retinol/it’s derivatives with niacinamide?

    • Gisele, yes, it is.

22. Hi, thanks for the info but can I mix Niacinamide with Azelaic acid and Arbutin?

    • Anon, yes you can, but I recommend you choose either azelaic acid or arbutin.

23. Hi –
    Due to aging, fine wrinkles, age spots, red spots (maybe a little rosacea) and adult acne – I went a little crazy, trying to find anything that might help. I just got Plant Therapy’s Life Essentials – peptide complex, retinol 2.5% and glycolic acid 10%.
    Can you please advise which is best for what – and when is best to use each one? All of this is so confusing. Thank you, in advance!

    • Tanya, I hear ya! There are so many ingredients and rules in skincare, it’s hard to put it all together! Have you ever used retinol before? I know it doesn’t seem like it, but 2.5% is a VERY high concentration. It could seriously dry out and sting your skin if you’re not used to retinol. If you’re a retinol newbie, start with a smaller concentration (less than 1%). I wrote a post about what strength you should be using at any stage here: http://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/strength-retinol-need/

      Re glycolic acid, what skin type do you have? You mentioned acne, so I think salicylic acid (BHA) would be more appropriate for you. It unclogs the pores from within, preventing breakouts and has anti-inflammatory properties so it should work better for your rosacea too.

      You can use peptides both in the morning and at night.

24. Hi! I am so glad I found this article. I’ve been trying to get a good skincare regimen going for awhile. But I went slightly overboard with buying different products and now I’m a bit confused on how to use them together or even if they can be used together! This is what I finally came up with. Please let me know if there are any products you think I shouldn’t be mixing. My skin is oily and acne prone and have red marks (p.i.e) from acne that I’m trying to fade.
    A.M. :
    1. Drunk elephant’s Vit. C SERUM
    2. Drunk elephant hydra intensive moisturiser (really like that it’s a gel consistency and not feel too heavy for my oily skin)
    3. Shiseido sunscreen

    OR alternate days
    1. First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance pads (It has lactic and glycolic acid in the first five ingredients list) as a toner
    2. The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% and zinc 1%
    3. Drunk Elephant gel moisturiser
    4. The Ordinary Azaleic Acid (this comes in a cream formula and I use it after the gel moisturiser because it feels weird to use gel formula on top of cream formula.lol.)
    5. Sunscreen
    * Should I be using the Radiance pad with the glycolic and lactic acid at the same time as the azaleic acid?
    * Can i use niacinamide together with azaleic acid and the Radiance pad?

    P.M.
    1. Niacinamide serum
    2. Gel moisturiser
    3. Prescription tretinoin .05 % cream

    *Sorry for the super long message. Hope you can let me know what you think of my routine and if there is anything you think I should change. Thank you!

    • Joanne, I like your skincare routine, but I would use the Radiance pads at night. Exfoliating acids can make skin more prone to sun damage so it makes more sense to use them at night. If you want to use them during the day, you need to be religious with sunscreen reapplication.

      Also, wait until the gel moisturizer has fully absorbed before applying the azelaic acid cream to aid its absorption.

25. Thank you for your post! After using Retinol 0.5% , how long should I wait prior to apply Metacell renewal B3? Thanks

    • Kim, just wait until the retinol has fully absorbed and you can’t feel it anymore when you touch your skin.

26. Wonderful post! Highly informative. One question, can I mix AHAs and vitamin C. At night I started using the Vinoperfect essence and serum with glycolic acid from Caudalie and then I follow with the CEO vitamin C moisturizer from Sunday Riley on top. Are these products okay to use together?

    • Chioma, yes, it’s ok to use them together.

27. How about niaciamide vs green tea seed extract?

    • Heppi22, yes, you can use them together.

28. Hi there!
    Thanks so much for all your guidance!
    I’m feeling so inspired but still a bit confused.

    I’m unsure how to use what I currently have and what to potentially add. My skin is currently dry, especially around my nose (perhaps due to product?) and I have dark spots/pigmentation.

    I recently purchased the Mario Badescu Gycolic Wash and would like a system with my new Ordinary products I purchased, the:
    Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% – 30ml
    Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate 10% – 30ml
    Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% – 30ml
    Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA – 30ml

    I’d like to add a Retinoid or Retinol..not sure which. (I am 32 and seeing new wrinkles and the beginnings of a soft neck! Also considering purchasing the Vitamin C Suspension 23%+ HA Spheres 2%, the Buffet, and Squalane.

    Am I overdoing it? Looking for help to make sure I’m doing the right thing. Thank you SO MUCH!

    • Stefanie, wow, that’s a lot of skin whiteners you bought. For the time being, I would leave the azelaic acid aside and try the alpha arbutin to see how your skin reacts. I’m suggesting you try that first because it has HA, so it’s more suitable for dry skin like yours.

      If you like the Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate 10% serum there is no need to invest in Vitamin C Suspension 23%+ HA Spheres 2%. Personally, I prefer the MAP because the other serum has a gritty texture. You can read my full review here: http://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/the-ordinary-vitamin-c-suspension-ha-spheres/

      The Niacinamide + Zinc serum is wonderful too, but it’s more suitable for oily skin. You can give it a go to see if your skin likes it but if you find it doesn’t do much for you, you can get your niacinamide fix from Paula’s Choice niacinamide booster or an Olay serum.

      The Squalane is a great addition to a skincare routine for dry skin as is retinol. Paula’s Choice makes some good serums with retinol. I recommend her line over The Ordinary because the latter uses high concentrations. Retinol can irritate and dry out the skin, so it’s best to start with low doses and build your way up from there. I’ve written a post on how to do that here: http://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/strength-retinol-need/

      In the morning, I’d use the cleanser followed by vitamin C, alpha arbutin, squalane and sunscreen.
      In the evening, cleanser, retinol, niacinamide, squalane and moisturizer.

      Hope this helps.

29. Wow, so much to take in! I am so glad I ran across this but I am still confused. Could i get your thoughts on my skincare routine?
    My current skincare regimen is;

    A.M. Cleanse with Cerave Hydrating Cleanser
    Paula’s Choice Resist C15 Super Booster
    Olay Regenerist Regenerating Serum
    Cereve Eye Repair Cream
    Elta MD Uv Clear 46

    P.M. Cleanse with Coconut Oil, then Cerave Hydrating Cleanser
    Cerave Pm Facial Moisturizing Lotion
    Tretinoin gel .04 OR on alternate nights, either Alpha %12 Glycolic AHA OR Alpha %14 Intensive serum AHA
    Paulas Choice Moisture Boost or Eucerin Q10 Anti Aging Face Cream
    Cereve Eye Repair Cream
    Sometimes I will finish with a face oil.

    Please give me your thoughts and let me know if you think I should change anything.

    Thanks again for such an informative article!

    • Kim, I like your skincare routine a lot. You are using all the right ingredients. The only changes I would make:

      AM: apply eye cream before moisturizer
      PM: apply Cerave lotion after the eye cream and before the facial oil. As a rule, active ingredients like tretinoin and AHA are best applied on clear skin so they can penetrate it better.

30. Can I use niacinemide with clindamycin?

    • H, yes you can.

31. LOVE your blog. Can you comment on my routine?
    Normal to dry skin, slightly congested and hyperpigmentation.
    AM:
    Drunk Elephant vit C
    Moisturizer
    Sunscreen

    PM
    I have the options of;
    12% Mandelic Acid
    Drunk Elephane TLC BHA/AHA
    The ordinary Niaci/Zinc
    The ordinary Retinoid

    Thanks!!

    • Cora, I like your morning routine. In the evening, I would stick to Drunk Elephant BHA/AHA, at least until the congestion hasn’t disappeared. The ordinary Niaci/zinc could be too harsh for your skin type. Instead, alternate the exfoliant with the retinol. Hope this helps.

32. Hello, the above comments…using tretinoin and AHA are best applied to clear skin?? do you mean clean skin with nothing else on it, just freshly washed?

    • Amy, yes, wash your face and then apply AHAs or tretinoin.

33. I am currently introducing Murad’s retinol product into my night time routine, first retinol product ever. I do currently use Drunk Elephant C-firma in the mornings and wonder if the funnel effect of the DE product can cause the retinol I’m using at night to be ineffective ?

34. Krista, no, it doesn’t. Using vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night is a great way to get the best of both worlds. 🙂

35. hi gio…first off, you sure are helpful and patient…hats off to you. getting to it, i like to change it up- either because i have too many products and don’t want to waste them all and/or i have no idea what i’m doing..lol…for example- i have matrixyl 3000 with ha from timeless but i can’t figure out what to finish it with or add to it for maxium effect. i have nice skin, 46 , no acne but now that i am getting older, my sking is more combo and i’m basically trying to maintain few wrinkles, address little sun damage and discover the best tone i can…my pores are medium size.. SO, ugh, sorry so long, i only use sunscreen in the day time- night is a circus. the ordinary retinoid 2% with algenist vit c ..some nights matrixyl with shiseido wrinkle cream or nia24 lotion…ultimately, i want to try the resurface by shani darden and just find a good moisturizer and be done with it…i ‘ve tried PC stuff..the ordinary buffet (made me break out)…how do you feel about the resurface? and what do i do with this matrixyl bottle i have? thanks and sorry to blather on…

    • Hi Amanda, thanks for your kind words. 🙂

      No worries, I’m happy to help. I’d use the Algenist vitamin C in the morning because vitamin C can boost the effectiveness of your sunscreen. You can use the matrixyl + ha serum either in the morning or night. These ingredients aren’t fussy and play nicely with other actives. I’d use it whenever your skin feels a little drier. For example, if you feel the retinol serum is drying out your skin a little, then use matrixyl + ha in the evening. If, instead, your skin feels a little drier during the day, put it on in the morning.

      The resurface treatment is a retinol serum. It’s overpriced but it should work very well. I’d wait until you finish the ordinary retinoid 2% to try it because it’s not recommended to use more than one form of vitamin A at the same time. Or you could just stick with the ordinary serum.

      • thank you kindly for your help!

        • You’re welcome. 🙂

36. Gio, Could you recommend a thorough niacinamide product? 53 yrs old, few wrinkles, heavy discoloration and pigmentation. I do use the Paula’s Choice retinol products.
    And by the way, your blog is amazing. I can’t believe I just stumbled upon it tonight. I am a cosmetic/skin care junkie. So this information is like music to my ears. LOL

    • Lora, aww thanks for your kind words. So glad you’re enjoying the blog. Hope to see you here often. 🙂

37. Well….I guess you can disregard my suggestion on niacinamides. I just found where you have already covered that. I should have known. You are on top of your game my dear. Kudos!!!!

    • Lora, glad you found it. Let me know which one you picked. 🙂

38. Thank you for sharing your oh-so-helpful tips! I would like to make my own niacinamide serum. Can I use the Niacinamide sold at the health stores or those sold on iHerb? I asked the same question about ascorbic acid and was told I could use regular vitamin C capsules but preferably Quali-C. Would appreciate your advice on these two issues. Thank you:)

    • Elaine, I’m not a fan of making my own skincare products because there are too many things to think about: ingredients that neutralise each other, a ph that makes the formula ineffective, the right preservative system to keep everything stable… If you want to go down this route, I recommend you check out communities like https://www.makingcosmetics.com/

      They will be able to answer all your questions.

39. Hi Gio, should a prescription Retin A be used on clean skin or hours later/post moisturiser?

    • Madeline, for best results, use it on clean skin, just after cleansing. But I know some dermatologists recommend to apply it after moisturiser if your skin is sensitive to reduce the irritating side effects.

40. Hi- I don’t know if you still answer questions on this great thread, but I would love some advice. I’m in my late 30s with a fair amount of skin damage from my wayward youth, I have wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, sagging and an orange peel like texture on my face. I also have a fair amount of acne, and alot of acne scarring and tend to have dry flakey patches in some places, with too much oil and breakouts around my hairline and chin. So this is what I’ve been using (I’m on a budget so I use cheaper things when I can, but splurge if it’s really worth it.)
    AM: Nuetrogena fresh foaming cleanser and Say yes to tomatoes acne wipes (has Saliclic Acid) then a Lumirance serum with vitimin C and HA and Clinique laser focus eye cream then a moisturizer with sunscreen like Clinique even better or Garnier clearly brighter.
    (My skin is often too dry durring the day as is)
    PM Nuetregina fresh foaming cleanser. Lierac hydra chrono serum. Then tretinoin cream .025. Then Robanda rejuvinating serum, Clinique laser focus eye cream and Clinique smart night moisturizer.
    I’m guessing I should be using a stronger sunscreen, I would love a recommendation of one that wont be white or greasy and is good under makeup. And I was thinking of adding the Olay serum with niacinamide since it’s affordable. And maybe a Glycolic acid in morning? I would love any advice you can give. I’m not sure the serums I use have very high concentrations of the right ingredients either. Thanks so much!

    • LKN, first of all, stop using the acne wipes. They may have salicylic acid but all that rubbing isn’t doing your skin any good. You should definitely use salicylic acid but a much better product would be The Ordinary Salicylic Acid. Use it just after cleansing. I wouldn’t add glycol acid. I know it’s a great ingredient but imo when skin is upset you want to stick to a few actives that work rather than throwing everything at it. At this stage, this may do more harm than good.

      I’d also recommend you use niacinamde as that can help with both acne and dryness. Olay makes some good moisturizers with niacinamide but make sure you stay away from anything that contain Isopropyl Palmitate, Myristyl Myristate or anything with Palmitate and Myristate. You can use it both morning and night instead of your Clinique moisturiser.

      Some of the flakiness and dryness may be caused by an overuse of vitamin A. You say you are using both tretinoin and the Robanda rejuvenating Serum, which has retinol. Pick one and use it only two or three times a week.

      The Vitamin C serum you’re using doesn’t have a very concentration of vitamin C. If you’re on a budget, the ordinary makes some nice vitamin C serums that work better. But again, I’d use them only after your skin has stopped flaking. I really think you’re overdoing it with skincare at the moment and need to go back to basics:

      AM:

      1. Neutrogena cleanser
      2. The Ordinary Salicylic acid
      3. An antioxidant serum like Skin Actives Antioxidant serum (you can change this to a vitamin C serum when your skin is in better condition)
      4. Mositurizer with niacinmaide
      5. Sunscreen

      PM

      1. Cleanser
      2. Tretinoin (or retinol serum) (two or three times a week)
      3. Moisturiser with niacinamide

      If your skin feels dry, you can also add a hyaluronic acid serum either in the morning or evening, but at the moment, your main concern is getting your skin back into top shape so use only what you absolutely need. You can go back and tweak things later.

41. What about glycolic acid and vitamin c? Can they be paired together?

    • Kate, yes, they can. If you have sensitive skin, they may be a bit too much for you but most skin types won’t have any problems with this combo. Just use glycolic acid first and vitamin C later.

42. thank you for sharing.. btw can you comment about my skincare routine? I’m 18 y.o & my skin type is combination to dry.
    AM
    – water based cleanser
    – hydrating toner using hyaluronic acid
    – mosturizer using aloe vera
    – sunscreen
    PM
    – milk cleanser
    – water based cleanser
    – exfoliating toner using glycolic acid
    – hydrating toner using hyaluronic acid
    – mosturizer
    can I mix glycolic acid & hyaluronic acid?
    and I bit confused about when should I put my acne treatment? is it after mosturizer or after toners or before using anything? my acne treatment is either from salicylic acid or from tretinoin

    thankyouu so much, I hope u can answer this 🙂

    • Syifa, your skincare routine sounds good to me.
      Do you suffer from acne? You didn’t mention it when you talked about your skin type. If you have acne, then you can use your anti-acne treatment after cleanser. Just skip the glycolic acid. Or use glycolic and anti-acne on alternate days.

43. HI Gio! I’m starting a new routine for pigmentation and i’ve got some doubts about niacinamide and vit c, using them together in am…
    AM
    1_Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
    2_Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
    3_? can i use after this Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate solution 20% in vitamin F ?
    4_ Solar protection 🙂
    PM
    1_Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
    2_Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate solution 20% in vitamin F
    3_Azelaic acid suspension 10%
    .
    Could i add to this routine a chemical exfoliator once o week? like glycolic 5% maybe?
    Thank you so much!!

    • Hi Melisa, I understand that you want to get rid of that pigmentation fast but you’re loaded your skincare routine with A LOT of skin-lighteners. If you’ve never used any of these before, I’d choose either alpha arbutus or azelaic acid. Also, I’d use vitamin C in the morning and niacinamide. You can use them both in the morning but again my concern is that you’re using too many active ingredients together. If your skin isn’t used to them, especially at these high doses, it’s best to start slowly and use them at separate times. You don’t want to get rid of pigmentation only to experience severe dryness and peeling. Once your skin gets used to these actives, then you can start using them a bit more frequently.

      • Hello Gio! Thank you for your answer, i’m gonna take your advise and start much slower, specially because the last 9 months i was pregnant using nothing but natural cosmetics and no acids… with exception of HA and vitamin c (both niod). I look like a dalmata, a happy dalmata at least haha.
        So am i ok to start like this? at least to begin the first month and start introducing slowly the rest…
        Am
        1_Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
        2_Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate solution 20% in vitamin F
        3_Hydratarion (got drunk elephant b-hydra gel to finish)
        PM
        1_Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
        2_Hydratation (i’ve got drunk elephant lala retro whipped cream to finish..)
        I really don’t wanna end worst than before…
        Thank you SO MUCH!

        • Hi Melissa, this should be fine if your skin isn’t sensitive. If it is, you may want to use vitamin C serum only 2 or 3 times a week and get your skin used to that before you go in with the alpha arbutin.

          Also, I’ve just realised that the niacinamide serum you’re using is more suitable for oily skin while the vitamin C in Vitamin F is better for dry skin. That’s not to say both can’t work for you but I had a few readers complain this niacinamide serum is too harsh for their dry skin. Likewise, if your skin is oily you may find this vitamin C serum a tad too rich. What’s your skin type?

44. Syifa, your skincare routine sounds good to me.

    Do you suffer from acne? You didn’t mention it when you talked about your skin type. If you have acne, then you can use your anti-acne treatment after cleanser. Just skip the glycolic acid. Or use glycolic and anti-acne on alternate days.

45. Thanks for your article! I want to buy The ordinary suspension 23% + HA2% sphere and Tony Moly galactomyces 96.5%, can I use both of these together in the same routine? Will the vitamin c react to galactomyces if I don’t wait for 20 minutes in between my uses of these two product?

    • Jenny, I think you can use them safely together.

46. Hello gio, ur blog is amazing. I just wanted to know that I use a night cream and a cleanser which has glycolic acid. I have two clay mask that I use once a week each. Am I taking too much of glycolic acid? And also I have acne prone skin so if I want to use an acid during the day. Which one would you recommend?

    • Alisha, your skin will tell you if you’re using too much glycolic acid. If there’s no irritation, you can keep using it safely.

      I recommend salicylic acid for daytime. It exfoliates the pores and helps prevent breakouts.

47. I had some of these questions a few years ago, and I came across an article on Paula’s Choice (and her accompanying site, Beautypedia) that said the OPPOSITE of what you’ve got here. Like that you can’t mix Retinol and Vitamin C. According to the research she cites, not only can you put them together, but they work VERY WELL together and enhance each product’s benefits.

    Here’s the link for your perusal: http://www.paulaschoice.com/expert-advice/skincare-advice/myths/five-retinol-myths-busted.html (Meanwhile, I’m still confused!)

    • Katy, I often use products that have both ingredients. I don’t the low ph for vitamin C deactivates retinol but it could make it a little less powerful.

48. Hi gio! Thank you for writing such an amazing blog! Recently i’ve just started new routine of skin care. But i’m confused with the layering technique. I plan to use the ordinary alpha arbutin and vitamin C at PM routine. Is it okay? Which one should i use first after toner? Thankyou in advance!

    • Farah, which of the two has the lightest texture? Use that one first.

49. You are such a boss for spelling this out!!! I had been using timeless vitamin c with cerave pm on top, but this contains niacinimide. Can you recommend a good non comedogenic moisturizer for night time without the niacinimide? I have also tried neutrogena hydroboost, but it congealed into little balls when applied on top of the vitamin c. I am pregnant and trying to do the best i can to combat these clogged pores and pigmentation without my beloved differin gel, so I can’t afford to loose any vitamin c potency. Thank you so much, you rock!!

    • Tana, is there a reason why you don’t want to use niacinamide? Niacinamide helps fade hyper pigmentation and doesn’t interfere with vitamin C. I’ve written about what really happens when you use the two together here:
      http://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/use-vitamin-c-niacinamide-together/

      You didn’t mention your skin type but I’m assuming from your clogged pores that it’s combo/oily? Please correct me if I’m wrong. But if I’m right, you can try Paula’s Choice Hydralight. Moisture Infusing Lotion or Drunk Elephant B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Gel.

50. Hello, i have a question. Can you use Dipropylene glycol, Niacinamide, and glycerin with Tretinoin, Clindamycin, and Azeliac acid ? Thanks!

    • Sara, is there a reason why you want to use Tretinoin, Clindamycin, and Azeliac acid? These ingredients are all very powerful and potentially irritating so I wouldn’t use them together unless prescribed by a doctor.

51. Hi Gio,

    I have dehydrated acne prone skin. My skin has been so dehydrated and I don’t know what to use. It’s like my skin is dry beneath my skin but kind of oily on top of my skin. I don’t know if that makes sense. This is what I use, I was wondering if I can use these combinations.

    AM
    Wash my face with water
    The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2%+HA
    CeraVe Pm facial moisturizing lotion
    Aczone(dapsone)
    Clindamycin Phosphate
    Cerave AM suncreen facial moisturizing lotion with RoseHip oil (sometimes)
    PM
    Simple Grapeseed cleansing oil
    CORSX Good morning Gel cleanser
    CeraVE PM faicla moisturizing lotion
    The Ordinary Natural moisturizing Factors +HA with Rosehip oil
    Epiduo on my pimples
    Tretinoin cream 0.1% on my acne marks and white heads
    I dont use epiduo and tretinoin cream on the same spots on my face
    Should I change the order of skin care?

    • Shyenne, it seems to me you’re using way too many actives. Its seems you’re throwing everything at your skin to deal with acne and terribly drying it out in the process. Before we go any further, which ones of these products were prescribed by a dermatologist and which ones did you add yourself?

    • Hi Gio!

      I found this post super informative and clarifying (not am easy task, given that skincare terminology can be quite dense!) I was wondering if you could give me advice on which products I should use and in what order.

      I have dehydrated, acne prone, redness prone skin with a lot of acne scars that I’d like to heal. My doctor has prescribed tretinoin and metronidazole gel. I also own lactic acid 5%, saiyllic acid, and alpha arbutin, all from the ordinary. I cleanse with a simple, sensitive skin friendly cleanser and usually apply Neutrogena alcohol free toner after cleansing (at least after I shower) For moisturizing, I use HA or rosehip oil and Simple brand SPF moisturizer l.

      I think it’s not wise to use so many direct acids on my face at once, but I’m unsure which ones to keep! And in what order/how often! Any input would be very appreciated. Best, Veronica

      • Veronica, so glad you found it useful!

        Mmm, as your doctor has prescribed such powerful ingredients, I’d keep your skincare routine as basic as possible. Let the actives do their job and just keep your skin moisturised. If your skin can take acids, use salicylic in the morning. It has anti-inflammatory properties so it should be suitable but if your skin finds it too much (it can get super sensitive on tretinoin!) wait until your skin has become used to tretinoin before introducing it again. As for lactic acid and alpha arbutus, I’d leave them aside for now.

52. Hello, I love this blog post so much its so helpful and descriptive.
    I am currently on a skincare journey of my own and trying to get a good regime going. I have dryish skin, but am breakout prone and have hyper pigmentation from old acne which I really want to lighten. I am trying to get a PM routine and see what products I use when.
    I never cleanse in the morning its to much I just splash my face with water, use a tea tree oil spray and then effaclar duo
    I use the Caroline Hiron’s double cleanse in the evening and that works well for me,
    I recently ordered pixi glow tonic and use that in the evening however I don’t know if I should.

    I have also ordered:
    The ordinary salicylic acid 2%
    Alpha Arbutin 2%
    Rose hip seed oil
    Vitamin C Suspension 23%
    + HA Spheres 2%

    Would you be able to recommended a routine for me using these products and what I should be using in the AM and PM?

    If you could I would be so thankful or even some tips

    All the best

    Jodi xx

53. Hi Jodi,

    you’ve ordered a lot of great products! However, all these actives are pretty powerful so if you’ve never used glycolic acid or vitamin C, you may experience some initial dryness and irritation.

    My advice is to start slowly.

    After cleansing, you can alternate between The Ordinary Salicylic Acid and Pixi Glow. You can apply salicylic acid only on areas where you’re prone to breakouts.
    Follow up with rosehip oil.

    If your skin reacts well to this combination, after 3 or 4 weeks, you can introduce Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%. Mix it with a hyaluronic acid serum to get rid of the grittiness. At first, use it only a couple of times a week and slowly increase frequency once the stinging has stopped. Use it after exfoliation but before the oil.

    This should already help lighten your hyperpigmentation and keep your breakouts at bay but if that’s not the case, after your skin has gotten used to vitamin C, then add alpha arbutin.

    I understand that waiting can be frustrating but you don’t want to solve a problem only to cause another (dry and flaky skin). See how your skin reacts and, if it gives you the all clear, introduce the next active.

    Hope this helps.

54. Hi Gio!
    In the past i have tried the basic skii set (cleanser+toner+miracle essence ) and it has so far worked for my skin.

    Now i am trying out the mario bedescu vitamin C serum. The question is can i still use the skii facial wash that contain niacinamide ? As your article talks bout niacimanide serum only. Tq

    • beauty.pop, yes you can use them together. I’ve written a follow up post about vitamin c and niacinamide here: http://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/use-vitamin-c-niacinamide-together/

55. Hey !
    I would like to know , whether I’m using my night care routine in a proper order or not !
    And yes , these layers are beneficial for my skin !
    Please help …
    The application are :

    Aloe bha skin toner
    The revolution intensive moist
    Time revolution night repair
    Mositfull collagen emulsion
    It’s skin vc effector vitamin c
    Hadalabo albutin milk .

    Please let me know !
    It’s would be of great help !
    Thankyou 🙂

    • Hi Fatima, to be honest, I’d use the vitamin C serum and time revolution night repair on alternate days (or one in the morning and the other at night) after the moist.

56. Hey Gio! 🙂 I see how helpful you are on giving people tips and setting them on the right path to their skin care routine, & I wanna know what you think mine would need or fix. im a guy (20) & I have oily prone skin I would say extremely oily but I also feel like it could be dehydrated, I also have acne prone skin and most of my acne is on my cheeks & chin, my chin tends to breakout pretty easily I would say around my mouth I have whiteheads and I get some cystic acne on my cheeks sometime, with that I have also have hyperpigmentation from post acne witch is my most concern too because I really don’t know how to target that and I’m scared to add products to my routine bc of the fear of getting more breakouts.
    My routine is:
    AM: I just cleanse with water
    Thayers witch hazel toner ( I just stared using this due to recommendations)
    Squalene oil
    PM: Cleanse with water
    Again Thayers toner
    Rose Hip seed oil
    I know that’s seems kind of a bit but I have tried so many skin care products such as cleansers, niacinimide, azaleic acid, moisturizers but I just started this routine to keep it basic because I don’t know what to do.

    • Chris, I’m all about keeping your skincare routine basic, especially when you have acne. It’s best to use a few products that work than plenty who can irritate it. But I don’t see anything in your skincare routine that can deal with acne and the dark spots it leaves behind. I recommend you use a salicylic acid exfoliant every night straight after cleansing instead of the toner and see how that works for you. Try it for a month and, if this alone isn’t enough, we’ll tweak your skincare routine further.

57. Hi! I wanted to know if it’s okay to continue my daily routine using a gentle cleanser with salicylic acid, before applying the ordinary niacinamide and a sunscreen contaning vitamin e, with 30 SPF in the morning. I use the same routine during nighttime but instead of sunscreen, i apply cosrx centella blemish balm. Twice a week, I would sometimes use bodyshop’s tea tree mask. My acne has subsided but i still have some active breakouts and i planned to use the ordinary granactive retinoid 2% emulsion to try and clear up my acne scars and dark spots.

    • Riys, your skincare routine sounds fine to me and you can definitely add Granactive Retinoid a couple of times a week to it. But I’d switch to a leave-in form of salicylic acid. SA works better when left on the skin for hours so using a leave-in exfoliant can help you reduce acne even more.

58. I came here while researching after getting my Epiduo prescription, which does contain Adapalene AND Benzolperoxyde (T_T) Well, it is no secret that a lot of people get irritation from Epiduo, so I guess I’ll have to see how I fare with it. I didn’t have any problems with Benzolperoxyde before, fingers crossed. At least they don’t clash with Niacinamide 🙂

    • teresa, both can be harsh on the skin, which is why Epiduo is available by prescription only. A doctor can tell you how to minimise the irritation but even so some people can’t use it. You have to try for yourself to see how your skin fares. Best of luck with it.

59. My boyfriend suffers from bouts of cystic acne mainly around his chin and he gets whiteheads too. The same cystic pimple often keeps coming back and often takes week so disappear.
    I have introduced him to a simple cleansing and moisturizing routine, exfoliating a couple of times a week. Also I’m encouraging him to use The Ordinary’s Nacinamide in the evenings.
    When he has had a breakout he’s tried at different times The Ordinary’s salicylic acid, and Acnecide’s 5% benzoyl peroxide, but of course these only work when the cystic pimple has turned into a whitehead.
    Is there anything you recommend, or any good men’s skincare that he can try?
    I wondered if retinol would help.

    Any advice would be amazing!
    Thank you so much.

    • Charlotte, sorry to hear about your boyfriend’s skin issues. Has he tried using salicylic acid every day? That should help prevent them too so he won’t suffer from them as often. Retinol can definitely help but if he’s having a bad breakout, he can try a sulfur masque like Obagi Oeffects. Hope this helps.

60. Brilliant article, thank you! I am just beginning my anti-aging skincare journey (I am 41). I have fairly dry skin but blocked pores around nose and chin. I have the following products but cannot work out a weekly AM/PM regieme…please can you help??? I am also getting terrible reaction to something, like windburn…little blisters under my skin and itchy red patches on face and neck…any advice would be gratefully received, I have spent a fortune and don’t want to give up, I would love some guidance with what products I should use when:

    Neostrata 4PHA Facial Cleanser
    Paula’s Choice 1% Clinical Retinol Treatment
    Indeed Vitamin C Cream (22%)
    Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid
    Sunday Riley Good Genes Lactic Acid
    Sunday Riley Luna Oil
    La Roche-Posay Intense Soothing Care (Toleriane Ultra Nuit)

    Can you possibly provide some advice on what I should use each week?

    • Gemma, as long as you have windburn, I wouldn’t really use anything apart from the cleanser and the La Roche Posay Cream. All the other products contain actives that help with anti aging but can also irritate skin. Get that sorted out first and then start your anti aging game.

      You also said that you’re at the beginning of your anti aging journey but you’ve chosen some products that are better for pros. For example, Paula’s Choice 1% Clinical Retinol Treatment is for advanced users only. If you’ve never used retinol before, this’ll dry out and irritate your skin pretty badly. With retinol (and vitamin C) you need to build tolerance.

      For now, keep it simple. Just cleanser and moisturiser. When your skin is recovered, start exfoliating. You have two options here. You can use only BHA all over your face every morning or you can use it only on your blocked pores and, twice a week, use Good Genes everywhere else. Paula’s Choice BHA and Good Genes Lactic Acid are both exfoliants so your skin needs only one of those products. But since you bought both, you can go with the second option until you’ve run out of Good Genes.

      Wait three/four weeks for your skin to adjust to exfoliation and then introduce the Indeed Vitamin C cream three times a week in the morning. You’ve chosen one of the most powerful (and potentially irritating) Vitamin C products so I recommend you start small and build frequency gradually.

      If after one more month your skin is reacting well (no dryness, flakiness, irritation), then introduce Luna Oil three night a week. When you’ve finished the oil, you can try going with Paula’s Choice Retinol Booster. Luna Oil has a gentler form of retinol so it’s best to start with that to build tolerance and upgrade later on.

      I know this isn’t what you wanted to hear. When you start to see the first few wrinkles you want to throw all the best anti-aging ingredients at them. But those ingredients are too harsh for the skin if not introduced into your routine the right way. Using them all together now won’t give you wrinkle-free skin. On the contrary, it’ll give you seriously dried out, irritated and wrinkled skin. Starting gradually is frustrating but the results are worth it!

61. Hello
    I’m 34 and still suffering from acne ? I need you advice on when to use retinol, and vitamin c. Was also wondering can retinol be used with Asterwoods Matrixyl 3000 +hyaluronic acid+vitamin c serum ? Whats a good vitamin c serum ?

    • Princess, yes you can sue the Asterwoods serum in the morning under sunscreen and the retinol at night. If you’ve never used retinol before, start with a couple of times a week and build frequency from there.

62. Hi Gio,

    In the morning, i use
    -facial gel wash by simple to wash my face
    -tone my face with ACV
    -moisturize my skin by mixing dramatically different moisturizing gel with aloe vera

    and at night
    -i wash and tone my face with the same 2 things
    -i apply a few drops of jojoba oil
    -then aloe vera
    -i use nixoderm as spot treatment

    my question is how and what part should i use niacinamide? in the am / pm? what products should i cross out of the list?

    • Hi Naima, I would skip the AVC toner as its ph can irritate skin. Instead, I’d add a niacinamide booster (Paula’s Choice makes one) to your moisturiser in the morning. Hope this helps.

63. Hi, I want to know if my skincare regiment I use right now is good or not. My face is oily with clogged pores on nose and chin, dry on both cheek and forehead, with some brown scar from bump acne on my chin and new red scar from acne that every two day will pop out on the side of my nose.
    AM :
    1) Cetaphil cleanser
    2) Cosryx AHA/BHA clarifying treatment toner
    3) Cosryx Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
    4) Phyto Niacin Whitening Essence ( 5% Niacinamide + Hyaluronic acid)
    5) Olay Total Effect Mosturizer
    6) Sunplay SPF 50
    then I put my makeup
    PM:
    1) Biore Cleansing Oil (sometimes I use castor oil+ grape oil to remove my makeup)
    2) Cetaphil Cleanser
    4) Skinfood Tomato Whitening Toner
    3) Differin ( Adapalene 1%)
    4) Cosryx Snail Power Essence
    5) Phyto Niacin Whitening Essence
    6) Mederma
    7) Torriden Celmazing Centellareal Lotion (with Centella Asiatica Extract 48%)

    Are there some product that I should not mix together? Am I layering the product too much? I also want to change to The ordinary glycolic acid 7% after I finish my Cosryx AHA/BHA toner.

    • Syahidah, your routine seems fine to me. Switching to The Ordinary seems a good idea. I like their Glycolic toner more than the Corsx Toner you’re using now.

64. HI Gio: What a wonderful resource you are! I stumbled on your blog while looking up The ordinary products who’s labels I find quite confusing and am unsure of what active i would need to add to my routine. I am interested in both the salicyclic acid 2% and the niacamide 10%, although really I am fascinated by all of their offerings and at that price point, open to suggestions! I suffer from occasional adult cystic acne, controlled topically. Currently, I am using: AM and PM cleanser: Naturopathica Aloe Gel cleanser. AM active: Mad Hippie Vitamin C (stored in the fridge for extra stability) + the ordinary hyaluronic acid with B5. PM active: Trentonin (derm perscribed: .05, use intermittent over the very dry winter months) + spot treatment onexton (derm perscribed- it’s a benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin combo) + the ordinary hyaluronic acid with B5. I use a CC cream (it cosmetics) with an SPF of 50.

    • Marpilfi, thanks for your kind words. So glad you find my blog useful.

      Both The Ordinary salicylic acid 2% and niacinamide 10% would be great additions to your skincare routine. You can use both in the morning so they won’t interfere with your prescription meds.

65. Hello. How about alpha arbutin and vitamin c serum, can i mix them together? Is it will form a reaction?
    Thank you

    • Natika, yes you can use them together. But I’d use them one after the other rather than mixing two serums.

    • Hi gio…i used at night low ph morning of cosrx amd thayers toner and oil free moisturizing lotion (with birch sap).after these can i use retin a or vitamin c??

      • Hi Marrisel, you can use vitamin C after toner but before moisturiser in the morning and retin A after toner but before moisturiser in the evening.

66. Hi Gio, I used my vit c (klairs freshly vit c drop) straight after cleansing, then wait for 20 minutes for following next step: First Essence, (naruko first renewal miracle essence) Toner (Klairs supple preparation) , Essence (Belif Hungarian Water), Serum (Klairs) and Moisturizer. (Belif peat miracle cream). However, I just realize that belif peat miracle cream contains niacinamide which make me hesitate now to use my vit c and belif cream in same routine. What do you thinks? Is both ingredients still effective?

    • Hi Firantis, I’ve explained in this post why using vitamin C and niacinamide together is ok: http://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/use-vitamin-c-niacinamide-together/

67. Hi, I hope you can help me with my day time and night time skin care routine. These are the products that I have timeless 20% vitamin c serum, pure hyaluronic acid serum, the ordinary matrixyl 10% plus HA, tretinoin cream 0.05%, hada labo skin plumping gel cream and cerave pm moisturizing lotion that has niacinamide in it. I have aging skin and I need some help to figure out what order to use the products. Oh and of course sunscreen. I would really appreciate it. Thanks so much.

    • Debbie, in the morning, use timeless followed by one of the hyaluronic acid serums, had labo and sunscreen. In thee evening, tretinoin, the other hyaluronic acid serum and cerave. Hope this helps.

68. Hi, thanks for your blog. It’s great and useful. Wondering about the following products and which order/ combination ….I’m 50 but often get told I’ look younger. I use Perricone high potency amino Face Lift , Skinceuticals Retinol 1, Timeless 20%C +E+Ferulic Acid Serum, La Roche Posay 50+, Derma e Firming DMAE Serum..and Hyaluronic serum at times and Clarins Beauty Flash balm Thanks Gioia

    • Gioia, always apply Timeless first thing after cleansing in the morning and Retinol first thing after cleansing in the evening. After that, use products with the lighter texture first and those with the heaviest last.

69. I want to know if I can use vit c serum with vit e and hyaluronic acid added follow by pure emu oil and than a sunscreen. As for pm, use retin A .05% wait 20 minutes than add emu oil. Or is it better to mix emu oil with basic moisturizer?
    Thanks

    • Shirley, I’m not a fan of mixing products because you could be diluting the active ingredients and their efficacy. But you can use them one after the other in the order you mentioned.

70. Hello!
    I cleanse with a gentle cleanser (obagi), then use environ clarifying lotion (niacinamide) and follow with vita moisturiser (Mario badescu). I have just purchased a Vit C serum (Mario b also) and a hydrating sunscreen (Mecca).
    My skin therapist suggested I don’t use the Vit C serum as my face was a little red when I saw her. And to use a form of retinol instead…. I’m confused as I’d previoauly been told that Vit c is a superfood for the face! After reading your post perhaps I should only use the Vit c at night and alternate with the Granactive Retinol I bought from the ordinary? What do you think? Georgina

    • Georgina, if your skin is irritated, I would stay away from both for now. Both vitamin C and retinol are powerful antiaging ingredients that can fight wrinkles and boost collagen. But they can be irritating, especially when you first start using them. That’s why it’s best to start with a small dose once or twice a week and build both dose and frequency overtime.

      My advice is to keep your skincare routine as basic as possible until the irritation has healed. Then, you can introduce one of these actives into your skincare routine. Use it for a month and, if your skin tolerates it well, then you can start adding the other.

71. Hi Geo!! Let me see if I can pick your brain.
    I just got all new products (The ordinary) and I’m noticing if I use some together, skin and the product seem to just ball up and roll off. Currently using:
    Niacinsmide 10% Zinc 1%
    Caffeine solution 5%+ EGCG
    100% cold-pressed virgin marula oil
    Hyaluronic acid 2% + B5
    Azelaix ácida suspensión 10%
    Natural moisturizing factors + HA
    VITAMIN C suspension 23% + HA SPHERES 2%

    I don’t use them all together or all at once, but could you suggest a regimen and an order to use the products that works well?

    • Hi Madelyn, do you mean the best skincare routine so the products won’t ball up? Check out this post to find out how to prevent that: http://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/avoid-skincare-product-pilling/

      Also, what is your skin type? Cos I’ve noticed you have some products that work best for dry skin and others for oily skin so it’s hard to recommend a proper regime for you. 🙂

72. Hi Gio,
    This blog is amazing! I have hormonal cystic acne at times and although it is usually manageable I still get them badly around my period. I was recently rx’ed Veltin by my derm and am wondering where to fit it into my night time routine.
    PM: aveeno sensitive skin wash
    The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid + B5
    The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc
    The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
    The Orindary Rosehip Oil
    How should I incorporate the Veltin, should I alternate it with the niacinamide and azelaic?

    • Hi Sofia, didn’t your doctor mention how to use it (how often, when etc)? If so, do what he/she said.

      As a rule, prescription medication should be applied on clear skin, after cleansing. One option would be to keep your skincare routine simple in the evening and use the other actives in the morning. But as Veltin is usually applied only on the affected areas, you may still be able to use the other actives on the rest of your face, just not on top of Veltin. Hope this helps.

73. Hi,
    is it okay to use Retin A .05% with pure emu oil since they are both known as vitamin A?

    • Shirley, to be honest, it depends on your skin type. I’d personally use an oil without or with less Vitamin A but I know that for some people this combo works. It really depends on how dry/sensitive your skin.

74. Hi Gio,

    First post here! I’ve just started to read your blog (its absolutely superb) and I’ve also just started to take my skin care seriously. I am 45, live in the UK and I have pretty good skin – I’d say ‘normal’. The things I’d like to focus on are, wrinkles – I’m just starting to get a few around my eyes and I have a few age spots. I’ve just bought Paula’s choice Wrinkle Repair Retinol Serum and Paula’s Choice C15 Superbooster. They are sold as a package, saying you should add the vitamin C to the serum…After reading this post I’m not sure that mixing them is right. What do you think? Also I’d love to know what you would recommend for the rest of my skin care routine; cleanser, toner, exfoliant and moisturiser? I hope I haven’t’ asked too much! Thank you, Joanna

    • Hi Joanna, as you’re just starting out with these ingredients, I’d say use them separately. Vitamin C three or four times a week in the morning and retinol a couple of times a week at night. If your skin doesn’t dry out or flake, you can start using them more often.

      I’m working on a post about how to take care of normal skin. In the meantime, here’s the gist: you don’t need that many products. Your skin is happy as it is and doesn’t need too much. For example, you don’t need a toner. You may also not need moisturiser but as you’re introducing powerful anti aging actives that could dry out your skin I’d say use one. Paula’s Choice makes some good moisturisers for normal skin.

      As for cleanser, a milk cleanser that doesn’t leave your skin feeling dry is enough. Your skin also doesn’t need that much exfoliation but I’d still use lactic acid a couple of times a week. Just to give your natural exfoliating process a gentle helping hand.

      The focus on your skin type is to maintenance the balance and don’t do anything that may strip it/dry it/cause damage. Keep it simple.

      • Hi Gio,
        Thank you so much. Brilliant advice. Sometimes there is just too much information and this simplifies it beautifully. I just LOVE your website and blog. Its my go to place for advice and I look forward to using it for many years to come. All my best, Joanna

        • Awww thank you so much Joanna! So glad you find my blog helpful. It means a lot! 🙂

75. Hye Gio . It’s good to see your efforts in educating us about skincare . You’ve been helpful by providing us information with explanation too . However, i would like to seek for your kind assistance to improve my daily routine .

    Actually i dont really know my skin type. Maybe it’s combination (forehead+nose= oily, cheeks=dry). And also i have dull and uneven skin tone.

    AM :
    Vit c cleanser (bodyshop)
    Soothing face toner (simple)
    Sunblock (biore)
    Vit e moisturizer (bodyshop)

    PM
    Oil cleanser (biore)
    Vit c cleanser (bodyshop)
    Vit c serum (klairs)
    Soothing face toner (simple)
    Hiruscar post acne cream
    Sleeping mask (freeman)

    I want to reduce my whitehead on nose, have an even, hydrates and glowing skin tone. Can you suggest the best way/product ?

    Thank you

    • Hi Cess, thanks for your kind words. Your current skincare routine seems fine to me but I really can’t give you any recommendation until I understand what your skin type is or I may suggest something that makes things worse. You can check out this post to find out how to figure out your skin type: http://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/how-to-identify-your-skin-type/

76. I saw a serum with a combination of niacinamide, vitamin c, retinol, salicylic acid, hyaluronic by Eva naturals. I was so excited and thinking about buying it because it’s all in one product. But now, reading this it seems like it was too good to be true

    • Grasi, I wouldn’t say it’s completely useless. It really depends on how they’ve formulated it, the concentration of each active and the ph. If you can, try a sample and see if it does anything for you.

77. hi gio.
    Can i use rosehip oil (which contains natural vit a) after i use vit c serum?

    • Utari, to be honest, it depends on your skin type and how resistant it is. I know people who can tolerate this combo very well and others who can’t.

78. My acne is weird,I use the proactive plus set and it’s works well but people are telling me using proactive is a bad idea because if I stop using it again I’ll break out again. Is that true? I have very oily skin so i feel like it will make me break out. Any suggestions for new products and how to deal with stress acne?

    • Melinda, I’m not sure why that would make it a bad idea? If your skin produces way too much oil, then you need products that can exfoliate it and keep those breakouts at bay. If you stop exfoliation, of course with your skin type, the breakouts will come back.

      For stress, I recommend a form of mindfulness. Like meditation, journalling or just going for a walk. Anything that relaxes you. Finding groups online of people who are going through the same thing also helps.

79. Hi! I love your site! Thank you for this article, it’s exactly the info I needed now that I’m about to begin retinoids! Could you please tell me what you’d switch around or take out entirely from this routine (Im 29, normal to dry skin, no visible signs of aging):
    AM:
    Cleanser
    Pyunkang Yul Toner
    Hylamide SubQ anti-age
    2 or 3 drops of The Ordinary Marula oil
    Eye cream
    Sunscreen

    PM:
    Double cleansing
    Pyunkang Yul Toner
    Timeless Vitamin C Serum
    Klairs midnight youth activating drop
    Marula oil
    Cosrx all in one snail cream

    Alternate VitC and The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% in Squalane before creams and oils (use only once or twice a week)

    • Anam, thanks! So glad you like the blog. I think your current routine is fine as it is, or is there something that’s not working properly/not giving you the results you crave? I believe in “if it ain’t broken, don’t fix it”.

80. Hi,
    I have hyper-pigmentation all over both my cheeks they are quite dark and sensitive /really oily skin. I slowly started getting rid of them by using these following products:
    AM:
    Wash my face with water
    Klair’s supple toner
    The Chok Chok Green Tea Watery Cream
    PM:
    All clean balm Heimish
    Cosrx good morning cleasner
    Klair;s supple toner
    Missha time revolusion essence
    Vitamin C wishtrend serum
    The Chok Chok Green Tea Watery Cream
    I alternate sometimes, I don’t use the serum but I exfoliate with the Neogen Bio-peel gauze lemon twice a week and sometimes I use the skinfood rice mask wash off.
    However, I went to see a dermatologist and they told me to use retinol 20% for my acne. I don’t know what to change in my routine to actually be allowed to use the retinol and get rid of my pigmentation. Also, I was wondering do you have any recommendation for moisturisers for oily skin because whatever I use, my skin is always oily.

    • Clara, prescription retinol should be used in the evening on clean skin, straight after cleansing and toning. I’d also move Vitamin C in the morning as this combination together could be too much for your skin.

      You can check out my fave moisturisers for oily skin here: http://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/best-moisturisers-oily-skin/

81. Hi Gio!
    First of all thanks for your amazing blog!
    My evening beauty routine is:
    -glossier facewash
    -pixy glow, glycolic acid
    -hada labo hyaluronic lotion moist
    -hada labo perfect gel

    I’m thinking about adding a vitamin c serum which is from an italian brand called Diego Dalla Palma (it has 10% of sodium ascorbyl phosphate), what do you think? Is it ok with my beauty routine? Can I add it after Pixy glow or it’s better to wait 20/30 min because of the acid ph? thank you!!! 🙂

    • Ilaria, I’d use the vitamin C in the morning under sunscreen. That way, it doesn’t interfere with glycolic acid and boosts your sun protection too! 🙂

82. Hi Gio!
    I’m so glad I found your blog, it is one of the best I’ve read since I started my acne treatment almost 1,5 year ago. The information is so helpful and clear, I can’t get enough of it!
    I’m in my late twenties and have an acne-prone skin. Currently I’m having another outbreak and trying to cope with it and establish the right routine. For now i use the following:

    AM:
    La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel
    Pixi Glow Tonic (5% Glycolic Acid)
    The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12%
    La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo+ moisturizer + topical benzoyl peroxide 5%
    NEOSTRATA Targeted Treatment Mineral Protective Facial Fluid SPF 50
    Topical VICHY Dermablend Corrective Make-up SPF 35 to hide redness and pigmintation
    PM:
    La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel
    Stridex maximum strength pads (2% Salicylic Acid)
    The ordinary Retinol 1% serum or Avene TriAcnéal EXPERT cream (rotate them every other day)

    I was thinking of introducing The ordinary’s Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% in the mornings as additional step to cope with post-acne pigmentation and Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% in the evening to boost the Retinol serum.
    What would you say about my routine in general? And would you recommend introducing additional steps above?
    Thank you in advance! 🙂

    • Hi Stacy, aww thank you! So glad you like the blog. 🙂

      I think your skincare routine is pretty good as it is. Yo0u’re already using very powerful ingredients so I would caution against adding anything more, especially when it’s not necessary. La Roche Posay Effaclar Duo Moisturiser already has niacinamide and zinc so you don’t really need to get the Ordinary one as well.

      Azelaic acid is good for pigmentation but it’s best for dark spots caused by sun exposure or melasma. If you simply want to get rid of the discolouration left behind by pimples, vitamin C + retinol + glycolic acid should be enough to do the trick. Talking about glycolic acid, as you’re already exfoliating at night with salicylic acid, you may not need it in the morning too. Still, the concentration in Pixi Glow is small so if you’re not drying out your skin, you can keep using it, at least on the pigmented areas.

      Hope this helps,

      Gio

83. Hi Gio, great blog! I was wondering if you had any guidance on my skincare routine. I have oily skin, pretty much all over, but it also seems dry underneath as someone mentioned above. I am prone to whiteheads and under the skin spots on my chine, and blackheads on pretty much all of my face apart from my cheeks. Currently I use:
    AM:
    Boots your good skin cleanser for blemish prone skin
    The body shop seaweed toner
    Liz Earle super skin eye cream
    La Roche posay efaclar mat moisturiser

    PM:
    Usually just take my make up off with a make up wipe
    Body shop seaweed toner
    Liz Earle superskin eye cream
    Either Nivea night cream or polaar moisturiser.

    I was wondering if I could add the ordinary niacinamide + zinc, and retinol 1% to my routine, to reduce blemishes and the scarring?

    • Kiera, you can certainly add the ordinary niacinamide + zinc. But I wouldn’t go with retinol 1%. That’s for advanced users. If you’ve never used retinol before, your skin needs to build tolerance to it. You can learn how to do that here: http://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/strength-retinol-need/

      But before you add then, I’d add a salicylic acid exfoliant first. For your skin type, that’s a must. It exfoliates the pores from within, preventing and reduce pimples, blackheads and whiteheads. You can use it every morning and every night after cleansing.

      I’d also consider adding a hyaluronic acid serum. If your skin is dry underneath, this can restore the balance. If you feel these are too many steps, you can do without The Body Shop toner. Hope this helps.

84. After accutane my skin is no longer as oily but still prone to flaking around the t-zone and i still get some spots once in a while. My big issue is that all those years of acne and picking at my skin have left me with quite a bit of scarring, enlarged pores and generally uneven skin – especially my forehead is full of small ghosts of spots and small scars. While i am too tired to do any skin-care in the morning (i just clean my face and moisturize), each night I clean my face with micellar cleansing water, use a toner containing witch hazel and aloe vera, apply a vitamin c serum and then moisturize.
    I’m wondering if there is anything i can add to my skin care routine or anything else i can do to help improve the look of my skin – exfoliating, masks etc? I’ve been reading about collagen tablets and am also wondering if you would recommend them. Thanks in advance, great article 🙂

    • Emma,. I’d definitely recommend exfoliation. Usually, I recommend salicylic acid for oily skin but glycolic acid works better for scars and uneven skin tone. Try a product that has both like Drunk Elephant Glycolic Night Serum. Use it straight after cleansing three or four nights a week. You may also want to go to a dermatologists for peels as these can help solve the issue a lot more faster than topical products.

      Re collagen drinks, there is some proof they help skin BUT when you drink collagen, your body doesn’t know you’re doing it to repair scars. It takes that collagen and uses it for whatever process it needs at the time. So if you’re looking at the as a solution for scars, they’re not it. But if you feel like your skin and body need more collagen to function properly, they can help. Hope this helps.

85. Hi just wanna ask if i should continue my skincare routine. Im actually dealing with acne and dark spots.
    AM
    Cosrx low pH goodmorning cleanser
    Lush Tea Tree Toner
    Neutrogena Ultra sheer sunscreen
    Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream

    PM
    Cosrx low pH goodmorning cleanser
    The Ordinary Glycolic Acide 7% Toning Solution
    Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
    Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
    Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream
    100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil

    then i use Lush Mask of Magnaminty once a week and The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution once a week also. Thanks in advance!

    • Camille, that depends,. How are you finding your current skincare routine? Is it working well or are you unsatisfied?

      One thing I’d recommend is ditch Glycolic Acid 7% toning Solution and replace it with 2% Salicylic Acid. They both exfoliate skin but salicylic acid can get inside the pores and prevent/treat breakouts so it’s more suitable for your skin type.

86. Hi Gio i just want to ask if i can use my doc prescribed meds with cosrx? Heres my routine in pm
    Simple micellar water
    Cosrx 1 step original pad
    Tret/clindamycin solution (formulated by my derma)

    • Lyn, yes you can.:)

87. Hi Gio,
    Thank you for your well researched tips. I had a few questions please. I have a combination skin tending towards drier side with white patches appearing on my cheeks in the morning.
    In the evening I follow this regime:
    Wash my face and follow with my P50 biologique researche toner or /use a Retinol product
    Follow it up with a either vintner’s daughter serum or Dermalogica overnight repair serum
    Follow it up with Dermalogica skin smoothing cream which has A,C, E.
    I had some samples of photo replenish oil and multivitamin power serum left over which I tried the last couple of days and it seems to be helping with the dry skin. My questions are:
    1. Can I use a Retinol over my P50 BR toner
    2. Can the Dermalogica cream with A,C, E be used along with the Retinol product or will VIT C react with Retinol as per what you have mentioned above?
    Thank you so much!

    • Hi Jo,

      to answer the first question, it really depends on how sensitive your skin. If it’s very resistant, it could tolerate this combo well. If it’s very sensitive, it’s best not to risk it.

      As for the second question, if I’m not mistaken that cream should contain a derivative of vitamin C so you can use it with retinol.

88. Gio, your blog is a godsend! It’s incredible that you take the time to interact with so many followers. I am gearing up to start aesthetician school in the Fall and absolutely nerd out over all of your articles 🙂 it would be an honor to get your input!
    About a year ago I moved from Washington DC’s humid climate to Colorado’s extremely dry climate, so it’s been quite a shift for my previously combo/oily t-zone skin to now all-around dry skin. I’m 27 and have some fine lines and early expression lines to combat. Here’s my current routine.
    AM:
    Sanitas Lemon Cream Cleanser, or Yu-be Foaming Skin Polish 1x/week
    Mario Badescu Glycolic Acid Toner (3%)
    Drunk Elephant C-Firma Day Serum
    Sunday Riley Good Genes lactic acid treatment
    TruSkin Eye Gel
    Supergoop CC Cream or moisturizer + SPF 35

    PM:
    Bioderma Sensibio Micellar H20
    MB Glycolic Toner
    Drunk Elephant TLC Framboos Glycolic Night Serum alternated with Sunday Riley Luna Retinoid Night Oil
    Argan Oil or Marula Oil

    A couple questions…
    1. I use the lactic acid after the vit c just based on the “lightest to heaviest” rule. The serum says it’s 15% L-Ascorbic Acid. Is this the right order? I also got a sample of the Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil and LOVED it (may be just because the smell is extremely pleasant, the opposite of the Drunk Elephant vit c serum) so I’m also considering a switch- any input on these products?
    2. I don’t struggle with acne but have lots of sebaceous glands and blackheads in my nose, cheeks and chin area and am looking to clear out those pores, so just purchased The Ordinary’s Niacinamide + Zinc and Salicylic Acid with the hope to introduce those into my routine. Would you recommend AM or PM and in what order?
    3. I unfortunately haven’t noticed the retinoid benefits from the Luna oil and was looking into getting a stronger retinol formula like one from The Ordinary in case that would have any impact on your suggestions with my night routine.

    Open to any suggestions in general as well! Thanks so much in advance!
    -Becca

    • Becca, thank you so much for your support! Interacting with my readers is a pleasure. 🙂

      The first thing I’ve noticed about your skincare routine is how many exfoliating products you use. You’re already using 3 and want to introduce one more! Salicylic acid is the best exfoliant for your skin type so use that. You have two options here. Drunk Elephant Glycolic Night Serum has both glycolic and salicylic acid so you can just use that every night after cleansing. Or you can ditch that and use The Ordinary Salicylic Acid every morning and night after cleansing instead. I’d also ditch the glycolic acid toner and Sunday Riley good genes. You only need the right exfoliant for your skin type, not every exfoliant out there. I know you’ve probably heard that Glycolic acid boosts collagen and is good to treat wrinkles but that’s true at 10% or higher concentrations so you really don’t get any other benefits apart from exfoliation from all these products. And in this case, exfoliation is a job better done by salicylic acid.

      You can apply niacinamide + zinc either morning or night after serums.

      Sorry Luna didn’t work for you. You can check out this post on how to gradually up your retinol dose: http://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/strength-retinol-need/

      You can also find my guide to The ordinary retinoid products useful: http://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/the-ordinary-retinoid-products-guide/

      Hope this helps.

89. Hi Gio,
    I have been struggling with dark spots and hyperpigmentation on my cheeks and some on my forehead. Ive been changing up my routine so many times and cant seem to find the right one that actually helps. Currently my skincare routine is
    AM
    clense
    the ordinary alpha arbutin
    aveeno positively radiant moisturizer with spf30
    PM
    clense
    nip+fab 5% glycolic acid pads
    the ordinary vitamin C suspension 23% in HA
    the ordinary alpha arbutin
    I was wondering if the alpha arbutin would work well in the evening with the vitamin C since theyre different pH levels. I’m a bit confused on how I should organize all of these products for the best results, or if I should add any other products to help like retinol? Thanks!

    • Brittany, if you feel the dark spots aren’t fading well you can certainly replace vitamin C with retinol in the evening. Just use it on alternate nights with the glycolic pads until your skin gets used to it.

90. Hi Gio! I’m so happy I found your blog—I had basically perfect skin as a teenager (minus a brief battle with KP) and naively assumed I’d never have to worry about a lengthy or involved skincare routine. Alas, midway through college I began having trouble with my skin and now, three years later, I’ve made little to no headway combatting the problems and have developed a bit of a skincare obsession in response. My skin type is dry but also I gues a combination—when left alone, my t-zone is very oily but unfortunately it also gets dry very easily, which results in a confusing situation—in trying to treat breakouts, the areas get red/tight/flaky (and oily on top, though I know this is a reaction to being too dry), but if left alone the areas are overly shiny and breakout prone, which I then have a hard time treating without it drying out, etc etc. I have blackheads all over my nose (which strangly doesn’t get dry) and in the crease of my chin, clogged pores all over my chin and in between my eyebrows, and get what I guess are pimples (normally no head, but not cystic and don’t hurt—but super red) on my forehead and chin/jaw.
    My current routine:
    AM: cleansing water
    vitamin C suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2 %
    neutrogena night cream (I need a heavier moisturizer than just a day cream in the winter)
    spf
    pm: cleansing water
    skin laundry cleanser OR skinmedica AHA/BHA exfoliating cleanser (every other day)
    2.5% benzoyl peroxide spot treatment, when necessary and just on breakouts
    marine hyaluronics
    neutrogena night cream
    rosehip seed oil (sometimes with a drop of tea tree on rough breakout days)
    This has been my routine for 3-4 months and I’ve seen improvements but still not what I want.
    I recently bought 5% lactic acid and granactive retinoid 5% in squalane and am wondering where/how/if to begin incorporating them. Your advice on that or general thoughts on the whole situation would be greatly appreciated!! Thank you 🙂

    • Lauren, I hear ya! Benzoyl peroxide works but it’s very harsh on the skin.

      The first thing I’ve noticed is that you’re not using a leave-in form of salicylic acid (SA). SA is the only exfoliant that can get inside the pores and remove all the crap that causes breakouts. Getting it from a cleanser doesn’t work because it needs to be on the skin for several hours to do its job. Lactic acid won’t help in this case either because you don’t need to exfoliate only the surface of your skin. You need to exfoliates the pores too. If you haven’t used it yet I’d ask The Ordinary if you could exchange Lactic Acid for Salicylic Acid 2%. Even if not, forget about the lactic acid and the exfoliating cleanser and start using salicylic acid every morning and night. You should see a big improvement by doing this.

      At first, I recommend you stop using benzoyl peroxide for a while. See how salicylic acid works on its own and, if it’s not enough, then spot treat with either benzoyl peroxide or tea tree oil diluted in water.

      Also, have you considered using hyaluronic acid followed by a lightweight moisturiser in the morning? At night, hyaluronic acid and reship oil might be enough too. My first recommendation for oily skin is to supplement a light moisturiser or oil with hyaluronic acid rather than go with a heavier cream as that could contribute to breakouts too. Hope this helps.

91. Hello Gio. This is the most useful article I have found on the internet. I was ecstatic to scroll to the comments and see you have taken valuable time to answer. Thank you for doing this!

    I have severe melasma that doesn’t budge. I am 43 with some visible signs of aging and very dry skin. As you can see, I am struggling. The only thing that helps my melasma (but does not completely eliminate it) is tri-luma which is a mix of tretinoin, hydroquinone and a steroid. Unfortunately, I can only use it once a day for 3 months at a time then take a break which usually means my dark spots get dark again. On top of it, my skin is so dry.

    I am hoping you can help me answering a few questions: Can I use a moisturizer on top of tri-luma and if so, is there any ingredients that I should avoid in the moisturizer? Also, since I use tri-luma only at night, could I use brightening products like vitamin c, alpha arbutin or kojic soap during the day to help the process ? Are there any ingredients or products that might help me maintain the tri-luma advances when I have to take a break from it?

    Any suggestions would REALLY be appreciated! I really hope I can get your thoughts on this.

    • Chinitapr, yes you can use moisturiser on top. I would choose a basic one like Cerave. It has niacinamide to help hydrate skin and strengthen your skin’s protective barrier but without any harsh ingredient that could dry out your skin more. The Ordinary Natural Moisturising Factors is another great option.

      I would advice against kojic soap as that can be drying. But once you’ve got the dryness under control, you can introduce a vitamin C serum to your skincare routine.

      I would advise to use alpha arburin during your break from tri-luma. If that doesn’t work, try azelaic acid.

      Hope this helps.

92. Hi Gio!
    I’ve been so impressed with your knowledge and the advice you’ve given, I thought I’d ask for help with bringing down the cost of my skincare regimen. I’m close to 50 and live in Colorado (dry, dry skin, melasma, outside a lot, and sensitive skin that breaks out even if it hears the words “organic” or “plant-based.”). I use and love Epionce products, and they’re the closest thing to simple and organic that my skin can tolerate. Right now I’m using SkinMedica’s Lytera line (AHA/BHA cleanser and cream in the AM with Lytera, and Lytera, Retinol and moisturizer PM). I would like to use The Ordinary because it appears to be simple, filled with active ingredients, and cheap, but I cannot figure out which products to use, and when. Any thoughts? THANK YOU!

    • Michelle, switch to a gentle, ph balanced cleanser http://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/best-low-ph-cleanser-skin/ and follow it up with The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2%.As a moisturiser, you can use The Ordinary Natural Moisturising Factors. The Ordinary also has several retinol products. Check this guide to help you choose: http://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/the-ordinary-retinoid-products-guide/

      As a PM moisturiser, you can use The Ordinary Natural Moisturising Factors or opt for an oil. Both rosehip and marula are very good.

93. Hi Gio! THANK YOU for finally putting together a list of do’s and dont’s people can ACTUALLY understand! That being said, I’d love to ask your advice on my skincare routine which is new to me.. specifically nighttime for sure..

    PM:
    Clinique extra mild facial soap
    Tretinoin cream (derm prescribed)
    Lancome Visionnaire serum
    Clinique All About Eyes cream
    Clinique Moisture Surge Intense moisturizer
    ** just started this regime for my super dry, dull, beginning to age and wrinkle skin with large pores, dark sun spots all over, and breakouts. However, I know there’s citric acid in my moisturizer which is causing burning and redness the second I put it on after my Tretinoin and Visionnaire serum – however, I LOVE the results with the moisturizer, just want to make sure I’m not inactivating anything as I can “suffer” through the nighttime irritation as long as it’s OK to do so. Thoughts? Lastly, should I use the Visionnaire in the AM with my Clinique moisturizer or add in an exfoliating or Vitamin C serum here? Thanks SOOOOO much in advance!

    • Lauren, mmm, are you allergic to citric acid? There’s only a tiny amount in the moisturiser so it shouldn’t cause that reaction. But then there’s nothing else in there that could be the culprit, it’s a very gentle cream. I wonder if it may be because of the alcohol in the serum, which could be making your skin drier and more sensitive? Anyway, there’s nothing here that can deactivate tretinoin. 🙂

      I don’t recommend using vitamin C or glycolic acid with tretinoin. Once your skin has gotten used to tretinoin then you can add a vitamin C serum in the morning. They’re both powerful ingredients so it’s best not to use them at the same time.

94. Hi Gio,

    Thanks for been awesome. Thanks for taking time out to answer everyone. It’s really kind of you.
    Your blog is super useful and helpful. Really appreciate it.
    I am new to skin care . Until last year, all I needed for my face was a cleanser, a moisturizer and sunscreen. Sometimes a toner. Nothing too crazy. I had great skin no breakouts. And then boom – my skin became angry with me and things went down hill from there.
    I have oily skin. And now I am acne prone. Mostly cystic( I think these are the ones u can feel under your skin right?) I have gone crazy with buying different products to help treat my acne as you can see below. But I know I am doing something wrong. Pls help. What do I take out? What do I need to include ? What should I not be using together?
    My main problem would be treating the acne and the clearing out the pigmentations they leave behind.

    Morning routine
    – Wash with water
    – Toner – Jeju volcanic lava pore toner or olehenrisken balancing oil control toner
    – essence – drops of youth by Body shop
    – Vitamin c serum – the ordinary ascorbyl glucoside
    – Moisturizer dr jart water fuse + the ordinary rosehip oil
    – SPF- Neutrogena hydro boost

    Evening
    – Cleanser – Body shop tea tree oil cleanser
    – Toner – olehenrisken balancing force oil control toner (contains BHA/AHA – salicylic acid, glycolic acid and lactic acids)
    – Essence – Neogen code 9 essence (contains niacinamide)
    – Serum – JEJU volcanic lava pore serum (face Shop)
    – Serum- the ordinary niacinamide
    – Lotion – JEJU volcanic lava lotion (face shop) + tea tree oil
    Or
    Evening 2 or 3 times a week
    – cleanser – Neutrogena benzoyl peroxide rapid clear stubborn acne
    – Tone – JEJU pore toner
    – Exfoliate – olay tumeric clay scrub
    – Essence – neogen code 9
    – Serum – the originate salicylic acid
    – Spot treat acne – Neutrogena stubborn acne leave on mask
    – Pore clearing sheet mask
    – JEJU pore face lotion + tea tree oil

    Thanks for your help

    • Jane, thanks for your kind words. Happy to help.

      Mmm, the first thing I noticed is how many products you use. It’s never a good idea to throw too much at acne or you won’t know what really works. You may also be using something that’s clogging your pores even more but again, with so many products, it’s difficult to tell.

      I’d like to propose you to take a step back and follow a basic skincare regime for a while.

      AM & PM
      1. Cleanser (use something without benzoyl peroxide as that should be used as spot treatment only, not all over the face)
      2. Salicylic acid exfoliant (you have several products with this, pick one and stick with it for a while)

      AM
      3. Vitamin C serum
      4. Sunscreen

      PM
      3. The Ordinary niacinamide
      4. Rosehip oil

      If you find this still isn’t helping, then do introduce a spot treatment with benzoyl peroxide.

      Once your acne is under control, then you can also reintroduce the other products, one by one. That way, you’ll be able to tell if any one of them is upsetting your skin.

      If you find your skin feels a little dry in the morning, then you can use an hydrating serum or lightweight moisturiser. Hope this helps.

95. HI!! I love the blog…so informative!! I have a couple of questions regarding some products that i currently own…Can The ordinarys lactic acid 5% and Vit C 23% in HA spheres be used together in the am? Also, I use Hylamide subQ anti-aging serum, what would be be the best order to apply this product in the morning? Before or after the lactic acid? Thanks!!!!

    • Heather, if your skin is very resistant, you may be able to use them together but I don’t recommend it. It’s safer to use vitamin C in the morning and lactic acid straight after cleansing in the evening. You can apply Hyalmide SubQ after vitamin C in the morning.

96. Hi Gio! I’m about to start a skin-care regime and would love your advice on it. My skin type is pretty normal. I’ve been experiencing some redness but have no experience with acne. I’ve been told by a skin professional I should look more into exfoliation as my forehead and outer areas of the face is darker than the center and my forehead has a somewhat rough texture with semi-visible tiny white pores all over (that’s the best way to describe it haha). Here’s how I plan to do it:
    Morning-
    Murad Acne Cleanser 1.5% salicylic acid with time- released capsules
    Fresh Rose Deep hydration toner: hyaluronic acid
    Drunk Elephant C-Firma & B-Hydra serums
    Drunk Elephant lala whipped creme
    Drunk Elephant SPF 30 sunscreen

    Night-
    Drunk Elephant jelly cleanser
    Fresh toner
    Drunk Elephant TLC serum
    Drunk Elephant eye cream
    Drunk Elephant lala creme
    Drunk Elephant facial oil

    For nights, I plan on alternating my use of serums and oil with Sunday Riley’s good genes lactic acid treatment and luna oil with retinol. Please let me know how this process looks, thank you!

    • Merry, I agree that you should definitely look more into exfoliation but I think you may overdoing it a bit. Drunk Elephant TLC already has glycolic acid, salicylic acid and lactic acid. So just use that one and ditch the Murad Acne Cleanser and Sunday Riley Good Genes. If you’ve already bought them and want to use them up, I guess you could alternate them with TLC. But really TLC is all you need for exfoliation.

      Start using that three times a week for one month and, if your skin’s happy with you, add the luna oil on the other nights. Hope this helps.

97. Wow! Your individualized responses are amazing!! Thank you for taking the time to help everyone!

    • Kendra, my pleasure. Happy to help.

98. Hi Gio, love how informative this article is! I’m 24 and my skin normal with no break outs or large pores. However since I started wearing makeup up I am struggling with hyper pigmentation around my eyes and top lip.
    I’ve started using this routine to help fade the HP.
    Am
    Exfoliate face with salicylic acid (st ives)
    Lemon essential oil
    SPF 50 suncream
    PM
    Garnier cleansing micellar water
    Exfoliate face with salicylic acid (st ives)
    Hydra bright complex serum( containing lactic acid)
    I also wanted to know if I can use products containing lactic acid and glycolic acid in the same day but at morning and night. Any suggestions for new products to use would be very helpful thank you.

    • Elis, please please please stop using lemon essential oil. It’s irritating and phytotoxic so it can make your skin more prone to sun damage. I know you’re using sun damage but high concentrations of citrus oils aren’t recommended.

      Salicylic acid works better at unclogging pores than fading hyperpigmentation. Glycolic acid and lactic acid are both good options. You can check out a product that has both, like Paula’s Choice line of AHA exfoliants. Hope this helps.

99. Hello Glo..can i mix Tretinoin with a night cream that contain vitamin C and alpha Arbutin.. Im using Obagi C therapy Night cream, can i mix tretinoin with it?..thank you..

    • Ghie, I wouldn’t mix anything with tretinoin. You can apply the other products in the morning so they wouldn’t interfere with tretinoin.

100. HELLO!
     I’m looking for a new skincare routine. Can Niacinamide be used with retinol or salicylic acid?

     Thank you,
     Vanessa

     • Vanessa, yes it can.

101. Hi Gio!
     I am so happy that I found your post!! I love how you answered to every single questions and addressed them with such vast knowledge and simple explanation that are easy to understand. You amaze me!

     I just bought two The ordinary’s skincare to fade my acne scars and smooth bumpy skin texture. I bought Niacinamide and Lactic Acid 10%. But I don’t know how to layer the products with the ones that I am now currently using.

     Currently, I use Aloe gel 97% and Life Pro Rosehip oil every night for the night routine.
     The Rosehip oil was amazing in helping me fighting the acnes, but it won’t fade my acne scars. That is why, I decided to give Niacinamide and lactic acid a try.

     Actually, I was worried if Lactic Acid would be too harsh for me since this is the first time I use acids. However, as I tried it now, my very first impression with the Lactic Acid is that the product does sting here and there, but only a little bit, not overly stinging. Like.. if overly stinging were a stormy thunder, then these stings were like, sparkles.

     I didn’t know the right order of layering these products, so I tried to go with Niacinamide first, then Lactic Acid, Aloe vera gel, and last, Rosehip oil.
     I also gave several minutes interval in between each products I applied.

     So, Gio..
     Which one goes first? Do I have to alternate the Niacinamide and Lactic on different days?

     My type of skin is combination and acne prone. It’s oily in Tzone but slightly dry on the cheeks. Oh, and I’m 27. Every morning I only use sunscreen and light moisturizer with some baby powder.

     Oohh, and I also have a question. How to reapply sunscreen? I live in tropical country with 87° to 91°F of temperature. So it sure gets a little bit hot lol.

     Thank you so much, Gio!
     I wish you have a great weekend!

     • Ani, thanks for your kind words and support. Always happy to help.

       If lactic acid stings (sparkles) a little, try using it on alternate night to get your skin used to it. As a rule, the exfoliant always goes first. That’s because it helps remove dead cells that could compromise the absorption of the other actives. Then, niacinamide, aloe vera gel and rosehip oil.

       You can check out this post for my tips on how to reapply sunscreen: http://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/how-to-reapply-sunscreen-while-wearing-makeup/

       • Hey, I am new to skin care and I am currently using Glow Tonic by pixie during the night time, and I was wondering if it would be fine to use C-FIRMA™ DAY SERUM by drunk elephant during the day time? or should I alternate between the two ?

         • Kariny, yes, you can use C-Firma in the morning.

     • Thank you for these advices, I found them very helpful!
       I have a question: I saw on a video online that you should never use vitamin C serums with collagen, because it can “clog up” and ingredients can’t penetrate the skin. Is that true? My eye cream contains collagen, should I not use it after my 5% vitamin c serum?
       Thank you, sorry for my poor english!

       • Giuly, this is the first time I hear of it! There’s nothing wrong with using collagen after vitamin C, don’t worry.

         And your English is good. 😉

102. Hello Gio, I find your answers so useful! Especially when it comes to the ordinary products with with we can easily do too much as they all seem great. So I figured out for my skin type ( combination skin prone to breakouts but sensitive) the best would be salicylic acid from the ordinary and the niacinamide + zinc actives. I just wanted know how to apply them? After cleansing and before moisturizers for sure but in which order or can I just mix a bit of both in my hand before applying or is the composition likely to react badly if I do this?

     • Roxanne, glad you find my blog useful. As a rule, exfoliation goes after cleansing. That way, you remove both the dirt and dead cells that accumulate on your skin and prevent active ingredients from getting through. So cleanser, salicylic acid, niacinamide + zinc and moisturiser.

       • Thanks a lot for your answer! Will definitely keep on reading your blog regularly, love how you tackle skincare in a scientific way and not marketing one! Best

         • Thanks so much for your kind words and support, Roxane! Means a lot. 🙂

103. Hi Gio,

     Loved reading all your comments your advice is really good. Recently I started using new products and acids but I think I used too much together too soon and my face was irritated for a couple of days. I have normal/combination skin. It gets dry in places where I had spots. Usually around my chin area.
     I have small red marks on my face where spots used to be.
     I would love if you could give me a some indication on how and when to use the products I have. As in which can be used together and which should be used at separate times in the day.
     The ordinary salicylic acid 2%
     Pixi glow tonic (5% glycolic acid)
     Effaclar duo (+)
     Iluma intense lightening serum (image)
     Nivea Q10 night and day moisturizer.

     Thank you in advance the help would be appreciated xx

     • Also forgot to mention, I started using the nip and fab deep cleansing fix as a cleanser and rinsing with hot water

     • Hi Lisa, I’d love to help but there’s something that’s not very clear. Are you prone to spots? I know you mention you had them but do you still have them? Is this a regular occurrence? If it is, use The Ordinary Salicylic Acid followed by Effaclar Duo and Nivea moisturiser ONLY on your spot-prone areas.

       If they’re not and you just want to get rid of the red marks the pimples have left behind, use Pixi Glow Tonic followed by Illuma serum moisturiser on that area.

       You can use Nivea moisturisers all over but the other products should go only on problematic areas. Hope this helps.

104. Hi Gio,

     Great blog, it is very informative. I have acne breakouts periodically, which I believe is improving through diet and lifestyle changes. My main concern is scarring which I get, even if I don’t squeeze the spots. The most bothersome skin issue i have is general hyperpigmentation except for the center of my face which is a few shades lighter.
     From The Ordinary I purchased:
     Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
     Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
     Asorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin 2%
     100% Plant Derived Squalane.
     And finally AHA 30% BHA 2% Peeling Solution which I will start using once a week. Please advise on an Am and Pm routine.

     Thank you so much!

     • Hi Marlene, first of all, I’d advise you to choose your skin-listening treatment. It’s true that the gentlest treatments like niacinamide can be used with other skin-lighteners but 4 products in your list are skin-lighteners and that’s too much. In particular, I’d advise you to choose between azelaic acid and ascorbic acid + alpha arbutin as really there is no need for both. Try both for a couple of weeks each and figure out which one works best for you. Use it after cleanser.

       AHA 30% + BHA 2% is very powerful. I wouldn’t use it more than once or twice a month. Niacinamide can be used daily with other skin lighteners (after them). Squalane oil is the last step. Hope this helps.

105. Thank you so very much Gio for taking the time to explain skin care. I have been reading/taking notes, etc.

     I have “mature” somewhat dry – photoaged skin. I have had repeated TCA peels which I healed nicely after applying a copper peptide to healing skin. Was once on Obagi and microdermabrasion to get ahead of photo damage and smoking. I quit smoking, and had a PHENOL peel to upper lip. I am traumatized over that. I don’t recommend that to anyone.
     I am so thankful I found this information for I may be doing everything wrong!

     AM and PM.
     AM — cleanse (has some Vit C–11th ingredient after glycerin)
     apply 20% vit c serum**has vit E and Ferulic Acid..wait 30 mins. stays in fridge
     Perhaps a Squalane (olive) or Hyaluronic Serum…wait 30 mins.
     Matrixyl 3000 Serum
     Sometimes a glycolic Acid
     light use of an organic complete creme
     SPF tinted moisturizer
     Zinc oxide on nose/upper cheeks

     PM: gentle cleanser – wash twice
     Vit A/glycolic acid Toner
     Sometimes I use VP spin to cleanse/exfoliate
     Gentle tea/marine toner…wait
     Retin A 0.1% gel – sometimes heavily
     Niacidimde serum w/vit e, avocado oil, rosemary–OR
     Peptide Complex serum (hyaluronic, peptides, Vit E, witch hazel **if I use this product, I don’t use toner
     ultra lift night cream mixed with a drop of pure lavender essential oil
     If I notice a blemish beginning, I forgo the Peptide (never exfoliate when skin is angry) I use matrixyl synthe 6 which has aloe, glycerin, HA, benzylalcohol, dehydroacetic acid — No heavy oils
     then light repair night cream

     In reading the ingredients, the products list purified water, glycerin, then possibly a preservative before any of the ‘meatier” items like vitamin a, etc.

     I am not sure if I am doing anything very well. My skin does look pretty good considering I was once a sun worshipper every chance I got!
     Does the glycerin in the products form a BARRIER that makes other products less effective? Are there better items to use that haven’t been washed out with water, glycerin, preservatives?

     Again thank you so much 🙂

     • Barbs, my pleasure! Glad you find it helpful.

       If this skincare routine works well for you, I don’t see any reason to change anything.If you exfoliate with glycolic acid, make that the first thing you put on your skin after cleanser. Also, if you’re using Retin A, you don’t really need a toner with vitamin A too.

       Nope, glycerin doesn’t make other products less effective, so don’t worry about that. 🙂

       • Oil is what stops other products absorbing into skin… it’s always oil last or before sunscreen

         • I agree. But I know some people, especially if they have sensitive skin, like to do the opposite to slow down absorption of active ingredients.

106. hello gio! i’m new to this whole skincare thing and i’m overwhelmed. i am 35 and my skin to date has been awesome – but friends talked me into getting some of the ordinary’s products to “prevent aging”. i THINK i’m doing this correctly but wanted to get your feedback :):
     MORNING post-wash: the ordinary ascorbyl glucoside solution 12% + the ordinary salicylic acid dotted on breakouts, followed by the ordinary 100% squalene and finished with juice beauty moisturizer with SPF
     EVENING post-wash: the ordinary niacin amide 10% + zinc 1% followed by the ordinary granactive retinoid 2% emulsion, followed buy squalene and the ordinary natural moisturizing factors + HA

     i did buy the ordinary glycolic acid 7% toning solution, but i am alternating that with the retinoid – every other night at this point – to avoid using them together. does this sound okay? like i said, i’ve typically been a minimal skin-care routine gal up until about 2 weeks ago and i’m reading a million different posts like yours but feel pretty overwhelmed. i’ve never seen a dermatologist because i haven’t needed to. in advance, thanks!

     • Natalie, do you know what your skin type is? Niacinamide + zinc is for oily skin but the glycolic acid 7% toning solution is for dry skin. So you only need one of these products.

       The other products you’ve chosen look fine to me. I’d just change the order of application slightly. Salicylic acid is the first thing after cleansing. Oils are always the last step. Also, if you’ve never used retinoids before, use granactive retinoid only a couple of nights a week and build up frequency slowly.

       Hope this helps

107. Hi gio! My skin is very oily and I don’t have acne right now. Well i only have acne during my hormonal. At AM i use:
     – st ives apricot blemish control
     – tea tree water from lush/caudalie grape water
     – johnson johnson moisturizer
     At PM i use
     – garnier micelar water
     – st ives apricot blemish control
     – the ordinary glycolid acid
     – tea tree water lush
     – Estee lauder advance night repair

     I just ordered niacinamide and alpha arbutin from the ordinary and right know i’m kinda confuse how and when should i use it. Also i have dark circle that i wanr to rid of do you have any suggestions of any affordable product? Thank you gio 🙂

     • Dilla, apply alpha arbutin before moisturiser in then morning and niacinamide before moisturiser at night.

       Do you know what causes your dark circles? The treatment is different depending on the cause.

108. Hi Gio:

     Thanks so much for your helpful articles. I just started using Sunday Riley’s Luna Sleep Oil (retinoids) at night and put her Good Genes Lactic Acid ( AHA) on just before (use it in the morning too). This article seems to be saying, don’t mix those two. Am I understanding correctly? In the morning I use a Vitamin C serum before the lactic acid and now don’t know what to do.

     Any advice you offer will be greatly appreciated.
     Debra

     • Debra, I recommend not to mix them because daily exfoliation paired with other powerful actives can be irritating for some skin types. However, if you have very resistant skin that can tolerate it, you can keep doing your current routine as always.

109. Hello GIO, thanks for make a very usefull article. I wanna ask you some questions. I just bought Good Genes and Luna from Sunday Riley and wanna give them a try. I read a lot of articles advice to use moisturizer since both of them are strong acid. Can I use moisturizer contains Niacinamide after I apply Good Genes (Lactic Acid)?
     Your reply will be very appreciated. Thanks for your time !

     • Ribka, yes, you can use niacinamide after lactic acid.

110. Hi Good, just found your site and oh boy is it informative. I love it. I’m Trinidadian and I’m olive toned. I am 32 & I have now started experiencing acne for the first time in my life. I’ve purchased some items from the ordinary and I will like some advice on how to use them. I did your skin type quiz and I’m a no. Two. These are the products: advanced retinol 2%, lactic acid 10% + Ha, alpha lipoic acid 5%, aha 30% + bha 2% peeling solution, 100% organic cold pressed rose hip seed oil, niacinamide 10% + zinc 1%, ascorbyl glucoside solution 12% and salicylic acid 2% solution. Note that I also have dark acne scars and still get the occasional breakouts. I also have some open pores in the t zone area. I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you.

     • Hi Nikita, definitely start with using the salicylic acid 2% solution every day, morning and night right after cleansing.

       Then, in the morning, follow up with ascorbic glucoside and niacinamide + zinc. In the evening, follow it up with alpha lipoic acid and reship oil. Three times a week, use advanced retinol instead of lipoic acid.

       I don’t think your skin type needs lactic acid + HA. If you’ve got breakouts, stick to salicylic acid – at least until they’ve disappeared. You can use the peel once a month. Hope this helps.

111. Love your site! I just received Argireline and have been using tretinoin for years. During my evening routine, would I apply Argireline before or after my tretinoin/retin-a? Thank you for any tips.

     • Tammy, it depends.

       The rule of texture says the most lightweight product goes first. The rule of active says the product with the most powerful active (in this case tretinoin) goes first.

       As argireline isn’t as powerful as tretinoin, I’d use it first only if the texture were very lightweight, toner-like. Otherwise, put tretinoin on first.

112. Hi there I am wondering if it is a good idea to mix Vit B3 serum with Rosehip oil … i have both sitting in the cupboard!

     • Kris, I prefer to layer products one after the other but yes, you can do that.

113. Hi Gio,
     I just started using Good Genes and Luna Oil – per Sunday Rliey’s directions I have been using Luna followed by GG at night. Would you recommend alternating these instead of using on top of each other? Thank you!

     • Elizabeth, I’m not sure why you would apply GG after Luna because GG is an exfoliant and exfoliants must always be used first after cleansing (and toning, if you do this step). But yes, I’d recommend using them on alternate nights at the beginning.

114. Hi GIO,
     I use aloe vera gel after using the ordinary niacinamide.. I have a extreme oily skin

     • Farha, that’s fine. 🙂

115. Hi Gio,
     Love your blog, I’ve been reading through it for the past few days. I am a fan of Paula’s Choice and have just discovered and purchased a couple of items from “The Ordinary”. I am alternating the Ordinary Granactive Retinoid Emulsion 2% with The Oridinary Hyraluronic Acid 2% + B5 each night (with The Ordinary Buffet appliedfirst), and was wondering if I could continue to use my Skin PerfectingPaula’s Choice 8% AHA Gel as well? I was alternating the AHA Gel with Paula’s CLINICAL 1% Retinol Treatment up to trying the Ordinary with no problems. I’ve only decided to try The Ordinary as I’d heard good things about it and it is far less expensive than Paula’s Choice. Thank you.

     • Lisa, thank you! So glad you’re enjoying my blog.

       Yes, you can keep using the 8% AHA Gel. Just alternate it with The Ordinary retinoid as you were doing with Paula’s Choice Retinol.

116. Hi gio, i’m so glad to stumble on your website. It’s so helpful. Thanks for your kindness and effort. I want to ask about my skincare routine.
     1. I use the ordinary alpha arbutin on AM and niacinamide on PM. Is it the correct way? Or should it be the other way round
     2. On pm, i use klairs supple preparation toner, The ordinary niacinamide, the ordinary azelaic acid and the ordinary rosehip oil. What do you think about the order? Should i exclude something from this routine
     3. I use the ordinary AHA + BHA twice a month. But recently i just bought sunday riley good genes. How can i incorporate this into my PM routine?

     I have an acne prone skin. It’s all better now but now i’m left with lots lots of acne scars.

     Thanks gio!!!

     • Hi Nadine,

       your skincare routine and its order is fine.

       I’m not sure Sunday Riley Good Genes is the right product for you. Acne-prone skin needs salicylic acid, not lactic acid (the one in Sunday Riley Good Genes). Unlike lactic acid, salicylic Acid can get inside the pores and remove all the excess oil and dead cells that clog them up. I understand you want to use up Good Genes as it’s expensive (especially if you live in a country where you can’t return cosmetics), so I’d use it three times a week at night after the toner (or even in place of the toner. If you want to switch to salicylic acid, do the same.

117. Hey Gio, this is my current routine…

     DAY
     1. Peter Thomas Roth Anti-Aging Cleansing Gel
     2. Ole Henrikson Toner (bha +aha)
     3. Ole Henrikson Truth Serum (vit. C)
     4. The Ordinary Buffet
     5. Olay Age Defying Advanced Gel Moisturizer

     NIGHT
     1. Peter Thomas Roth Anti-Aging Cleansing Gel
     2. Ole Henrikson Toner
     3. The Ordinary Buffet
     4. The Ordinary Retinol 0.05% in Squalame
     5. Olay Eyes Ultimate Eye Cream
     6. Olay Age Defying Advanced Gel Moisturizer

     Now I have several questions. I just bought Sunday Riley GG. Where can I fit this in the routine? I know this seems like a lot since I know you say you like to keep things simple. I’m 31 with combination skin, early signs of aging btw.

     Second question. What would you change in my routine? Should anything be taken out or order changed/switched? I feel like it’s a lot and I’m not sure it’s working for me.

     Third, from reading lots here I just came to realize that my toner (aha bha) probably won’t go with Sunday Riley GG, am I right? I’m concerned. I’m really trying to invest in my skincare and my skin isn’t bad but I’m just not seeing anything amazing yet. Please help. Any and all feedback is greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

     • Kay, that’s just what I was gonna say. If you already using AHA+BHA, you don’t need Sunday Riley. If you can’t return it, you can always alternate it with your toner. One day toner, one day GG.

       The rest of your routine seems fine but I’m not sure what you mean with “not seen anything amazing yet”. Apart from retinoids, the rest of your routine is preventative so it’s more about keeping your skin in good condition than fighting wrinkles. Or is there anything else you’d like to improve that doesn’t seem to?

       • There’s not enough AHA/BHA in yr toner to even worry about…its just a toner full stop you won’t see any difference from that…Good Genes could and would make a difference to your general skin smoothness

         • Stell, I know some people had good results with the Ole Henrinksen toner. But I believe its acids concentration is low indeed.

118. Hi, thanks for the informative blog. I have melasma on my upper lip and am looking for ways to remove it. I was thinking if purchasing the ordinary skincare, this is what I was thinking:
     AM: Niacinamide and Azelaic acid
     PM: Alpha Arbutin and Niacinamide
     Are there any other products you would recommend for melasma? I also have some prescription tretinoin, is it worthwhile using with the products stated above?
     Thanks

     • Kodi, these are great products for treating melasma but I wouldn’t use all of them at once. Use azelaic acid for a month and alpha arbutus for another month and see which one works best.

       You can use them with tretinoin, but not one after the other. Use them on different days or one in the morning and tretinoin at night. If you experience dryness and irritation, cut back frequency.

119. Hi Gio,
     My name is Surbhi Goel. I am from India. I have Oily acne prone scene and my age is 40. I am new to Acid toning. I have purchased below products and I want to know if my schedule for AM and Pm is correct.

     AM

     Cleanser Neutrogena Fresh Foaming Face wash
     Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2 %
     Ordinary Niacinamy\ide 10 % + zinc 1 %
     Ordinary Natural moisturising Factors
     La shield 40 SPF

     PM

     Cleanser Neutrogena Fresh Foaming Face wash
     Granactive Retinoid 2 % in Squalane ( twice a week , starting with mildest , other days of week , i will skip this and directly go to others )
     Rose water Toner from Forest Essential
     Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10 %
     Ordinary Marine Hyaluronics
     100% Organic cold pressed rosehip seed Oil
     Please advice If this is correct. Or some alterations are needed. I have few Acne scars also.

     • Surbhi, yes, this routine is correct. Well done for putting it together!

120. Hi Gio!
     My current routine is
     AM
     Cleanse with Laneige Multi Cleanser
     Tone with Laneige Skin Toner
     Ole Henriksen Truth Serum
     Skinfood Royal Honey Moisturizing Cream

     PM
     Cleanse with Laneige Multi Cleanser
     Tone with Laneige Skin Toner
     Drunk Elephant TLC Glycolic Night Serum
     Moisturize with shu uemura maxi:hydrability moisture essence-in gel

     I recently bought Niacinamide 10%+Zinc 1% and Alpha Arbutin 2%+HA from The Ordinary, to help with acne scarring. Where should I put them? Can I use them at night with my Glycolic Night Serum, or should I alternate?

     • Olivia, you can apply Niacinamide + Zinc after Truth serum in the morning. I’d definitely alternate glycolic acid and alpha arbutin at night just to see how your skin reacts. If all’s well, you can try using AA after glycolic.

121. Hi, I’m using Serum C by Mary Kay and my moisturiser contains Niacimide. Is it okay to use both? Since I read ur blog- do not mix Niacimide with Vitamin C.

     • AS, yes it is ok. As I’ve written in the post, it’s a myth you can’t use them together.

122. Hi GIO! I just came across your blog and it’s very informative. I’m new at this and i just want to male sure that i’m doing it correctly. Here’s my routine.
     AM:
     -low ph gel cleanser
     -moisturizing toner
     -aqua moisturizer
     -spf 50 PA++++
     PM:
     -double cleanse (always)
     -low ph gel cleanser
     -moist toner
     -aqua moisturizer (water based)
     -the ord adv ret 2% (every other day i switch with azelaic acid, is that right?)
     -THe ord NMF

     I just bought TO peeling solution as well. And i want to incorporate that. Can you pla fix my routine? To make sure i’m doung it correctly. I used to use Skin Food black sugar scrub, but i think it’s better to use chemical exfoliators. Pls help me? If you can enumerate how to do it correctly. Please if you have time. Thank you so much!
     –

     • Hi Clara, use the ordinary retinol 2% before your aqua moisturiser. The rest is fine.

       As you are new to acids, I do NOT recommend the TO peeling solution. That’s a very high concentration of acids and you need to build up resistance to it. TO has many other exfoliants that are more suitable for you. Check out my TO exfoliating guide and pick the one most suitable for your skin type: https://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/guide-ordinary-exfoliating-products/

123. hi gio,, I’m using vit.c serum in morning followed by moisturizer with peptides and I find out that vit.c and peptides cannot use at the same time? em I right? and I wanna use the estee lauder night repair in the evening , is it still possible to use that eventhough I’m applying vit.c in the morning? and lastly I’m using whitening cream with with alpha arbutin in the evening.. please let me know what is your suggestion thank you.

     • Odie, vitamin C works well with most peptides. I don’t seen any reason why you shouldn’t be able to use all these products together.

124. thanks gio! can u please check if my skin care routine is correct.
     AM:
     cleanse, toner, vit.c serum, mary kay anti aging day cream with peptides/spf
     PM:
     cleanse,toner, estee lauder night repair serum, 24hr lightening cream with alpha arbutin, and lastly estee lauder revitalizing supreme anti aging cell power.

     • Odie, yes it is correct. But I wouldn’t rely solely on a moisturiser for SPF. It’s always best to use a separate sunscreen.

125. hi, thanks for the post!

     I’m curious… I’ve been using tretinoin cream in the PM and Clyndamycin gel in the AM for a few years now. I’ve switched other products but these are constant.
     I’ve heard good things about niacinamide + zinc so I got a serum – can I use that with my clyndamycin in the mornings?
     I’ve also read that you shouldn’t use products with tea trea oil with any retin-a products. Is this true?
     I also have an essence with vitamin c and e and am trying to figure out how to incorporate it into my routine – would you recommend that i simply take an evening or two to use this instead of the tretinoin?

     thanks!

     • Brie, yes you can use niacinamide with Clyndamycin. Or you can use vitamin C in the morning with clyndamycin and niacinamide at night tretinoin. Tea tree oil is for acne and you’re already using ant-acne products so I don’t see any need for you to use this as well.

126. Thank you for this!! I just got some vitamin c oil and some squalane oil, is it okay to use together?

     Thank you for any help!

     • Sarah, it is ok but you will probably dilute the vitamin C a little. That may make less effective but also gentler. Or you can layer them.

127. Hi Gio,

     I’m so happy that I found your blog! It’s very helpful and I definitely learn a lot from you, please keep up the good work!

     I read somewhere at your blog about Vitamin C works best at an acidic pH, around 3.5. However, the ordinary MAP has a pH of 6.5 to 7.5, does it mean it is less effective? Also, can I apply MAP followed by hyaluronic acid and lastly rosehip oil in the morning and at night? Is this routine correct?

     I also read from your blog that too much retinol can cause skin irritation, i.e. choose either retinol or rosehip oil (as rosehip oil is a natural source of vitamin A). My question is, retinol usually has a pH of 5.5, does it mean rosehip oil has a pH of 5.5 too? And is there any difference between rosehip oil and retinol serum, other than their texture?

     Thank you so much!

     • Claire, thank you so much for your support. So glad you’re learning a lot from my blog.

       Oops, I should have been more precise! L-Ascorbic Acid, the pure form of Vitamin C, does indeed work best at a pH of 3.5. But MAP uses a derivative of L-Ascorbic Acid that works well at a higher pH so yes MAP is still effective. It’s less powerful than L-Ascorbic Acid but also gentler. And yes, that routine is fine. 🙂

       Rosehip oil has a skin-friendly pH too so what you use mostly comes down to personal preference.

128. Hi Gio,

     It’s me again! Just to add on to my comment above, you did mention about 1% Retinol is considered strong, what does the 1% mean? Is it 1% concentration of vitamin A? How many % does rosehip oil has? For example rosehip oil from Life Flo and The Ordinary. Also, can we use rosehip oil after applying AHA products?

     • Claire, yes 1% is the concentration. Retinol products usually state the concentration of retinol while rosehip oil doesn’t list the amount of vitamin A so it’s impossible to know for sure how much it has.

       Most people can use them together but if your skin is sensitive, it may be better to alternate.

129. Hi Gio! Amazing blogs! I want to update my skincare routine to fix my rosacea, blemishes and acne, but I don’t know where to put my Vit. C (Klairs Vitamin C Serum). Any suggestions where to put vit. c and Is my skincare routine is right?
     Here’s my AM routine
     – Innisfree pore jeju cleansing foam
     – Thayers Witch Hazel Toner
     – The Ordinary Salicylic Acid
     – The Ordinary Niacinamide 10 % + Zinc 2%
     – In her element Rose gel serum moisturizer (local brand from ph)
     – Mario Badescu Rose Water Spray
     – Cosrx Aloe Soothing Gel Spf 50++
     PM routine
     – Innisfree pore jeju cleansing foam
     – Thayers Witch Hazel Toner
     – The Ordinary Salicylic Acid
     – The Ordinary Azelaic acid Suspension 10%
     – Nature Republic Aloe Vera
     Thank u so much! 🙂

     • Angela, I’d use it after salicylic acid in the evening. If your skin is happy with this routine, I wouldn’t change anything.

130. Hi Gio!
     just found your amazing page, and have been reading it for hours! you have really helped me in researching what i purchased, so thankyou so much!
     i just had a question and hoped you wouldnt mind please just giving me a little of your expert advice? ive just purchased
     The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 30% in Silicone,
     Granactive Retinoid 2% in Squalane,
     Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
     and the AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution 30ml

     my skin is generally very oily with no wrinkles but very enlarged sebacious pores. im hoping the retinoid will help, as well as the peeling solution (i’m new to both products). my question is: can i use all four products realistically together? i dont want to overload my skin…and i know you should only use the peel mask once a week or so, but i was wondering if i should perhaps alternate the use of vitamin c and retinoids to every other day? or could i maybe use the vitamin c in the mornings and just leave an hour between applying niacinamide? then i could use the retinoids in the evenings and get the benefits of both each day? or is this too much?
     i hope you can help a little
     thankyou so much

     • Jo, so glad you’re enjoying the blog. Thanks for your support.

       First things first: have you ever used vitamin C, retinoids and exfoliating acids before? Because if the answer is no, you should definitely not use these products together. In fact, I would argue that these aren’t the right products for you at all! With such powerful actives, you want to start with small concentrations and build your way up slowly. You went straight to the highest doses and that could serious dry out your skin and make it peel.

       If you still want to give them a go, start with the retinoids. Use it two or three times a week for a month. If you find it a little drying, follow up with moisturiser. If you experience some peeling, follow up with moisturiser too as that can help counteract the drying effects.

       If after a month your skin is fine with the retinol, go in with the vitamin C in the morning. Again, start 2 or 3 times a week and build up frequency gradually.

       Niacinamide you can use daily, either at night or in the morning.

       Instead, I would not use the peeling solution. Imo, the #1 thing oily skin needs is salicylic acid. You need something that stays on the skin for hours every day, not a peel that stays on for 10 minutes once a week. If you can, return it and get the Salicylic Acid 2% Solution instead. You can use it daily, either in the morning or at night. Hope this helps.

131. Hello Gio! can i use the some by mi miracle toner together with the ordinary niacinamide or the alpha arbutin one??

     • Nadia, yes you can use it with niacinamide. But I’d alternate it with alpha arbutin. Maybe try using them on alternate nights.

132. Hey i got 2 questions!
     First, is it okay to use serum that contains vitamin C(not pure vit C,but other ing. too) and then moisturizer again with vitamin C in it as an ingredient?
     And second, if i use 2% salicylic acid toner at night is it okay to use moisturizer with vitamin C in it(the same moisturizer as day time)?

     Thank you!!!

     • Ivona,

       1. That depends on your skin type and how much Vitamin C is in each product. If it’s sensitive, using two products high in vitamin C may be too much. But if one of the products has a lot of vitamin C and the other just a sprinkle, it’s fine even for sensitive skin.
       2. If your skin isn’t sensitive, then yes it’s ok.

133. Hello Gio! Love from Malaysia! Enjoying your blog and hope you can blog more on skincares because im a total newbie! Just curious, can i wear both niacinamide and alpha arbutin in a routine?

     Also, can you tell me if my routine order is alright?
     AM – Gel cleanser – eye cream – niacinamide – alpha arbutin – vitamin e moisturizer – sunscreen
     PM- Oil cleanser – gel cleanser – eye cream – niacinamide – alpha arbutin – nivea creme – sheet mask

     • Nisa, your routine is fine. I’d just apply alpha arbutin before niacinamide. Or you can use one in the morning and the other at night if you’d like to make your skincare routine a little shorter.

134. Hi Gio! wonderful post! I was wondering if you somewhere publish your sources or if not, if that is something you could consider doing? It would be nice to be able to read in depth and try to understand the science on ones own. Thank you!

     • Gabrielle, yes, I link my sources. If you click on the links in greens, it will take you there.

135. hi Gio!
     I need your help!
     I ordered The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% in squalene few weeks ago, and I forgot about it and I ordered Some by Mi Toner.
     Surprisingly both products came at the same time.
     I am thinking that I should give my skin time to adapt with new skin cares,
     but is it alright to use both products at the same time?
     Thanks!

     • Christina, I’d start with the retinoid and, after a couple of weeks, introduce the toner. That way, if one of the products doesn’t work for you, you’ll know without a shadow of a doubt what the culprit is.

136. Pingback: My Routine | Part 1: Mixing it Up – Lipsticks and Margaritas

137. Hi Gio 🙂 Thank you for your blog, is really helpful and inspirational 🙂 You are very kind person. I’m 23 and I’m only begginner in skincare but I love it!
     I want to ask you if it’s ok to use this products in my routine.

     Morning after cleansing I use:
     Rose Water
     Lancome Tonic without alcohol and yeah I also want to buy Pixi Glow Tonic (I’m not sure about using it everyday but maybe 3 times a week at night so my skin get used to it)
     The Ordinary Hyaluron Acid 2%
     The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
     Gel-Moisturizer with SPF

     .Especially I want to ask if it’s ok to use Pixi Glow Tonic and then TO Hyaluronic Acid + TO Niacinamide with Zinc + Moisturizer. I have a bit sensitive, combination/oily skin with visible pores 🙁

     In the evening my routine is almost the same but I double cleanse and 3 times a week I would like to use Glow Tonic. Thank you for help 🙂 I feel lost 😀 ♥

     • Hi Karina, thanks so much for your kind words and your support. Means a lot.

       You have a great skincare routine. I have to say I don’t care for Lancome skincare and I don’t think toners are necessary so if you want to cut a step out of your skincare routine, you can take the Lancome tonic out.

       I know that Pixi Glow has a great reputation but that’s a toner for dry skin. If it’s oily and a little sensitive, it won’t give you the results you want. Instead, try salicylic acid. The Ordinary makes a salicylic acid product you can use every night.

138. Thanks for such in depth posts, your site is amazing! I’ve started a new skincare routine based on your suggestions for acne prone + aging skin (I’m 35 with combo skin, larger pores with some congestion and the occasional cystic acne around my jaw line) and am already seeing some improvement. Would you change anything?

     MORNING
     Clean & Clear Sensitive Skin foaming face wash
     Drunken Elephant Framboos (Glycolic+Salicylic)
     Andalou Naturals Probiotic + C Renewal Cream
     TruSkin Naturals Hyaluronic Acid Serum
     CeraVe PM moisturizing lotion

     EVENING
     Avocado Oil + CC SS foaming face wash
     Tretinoin Rx cream
     CeraVe PM moisturizing lotion

     • Amber, so glad my post helped. That’s a great routine and it seems to be working well for you so I wouldn’t change anything.

139. Hello,
     Chances on your site yesterday while trying to find the perfect product combinations without getting further confused in the maze.

     Brilliantly helpful.

     You’ve not (at least upon searching) reviewers Dr. Dennis Gross peel pads. Any reason?

     I would love your input on what you think about my current regime, if you have a moment.

     I am 45. Olive skin. Never had any skin issues till my early 30’s. A few month ago I discovered the power of chemical exfoliants. Confused about the kinds available and ones best suited to my needs.

     Skin – olive. Doesn’t burn easily. Discolouration. Dullness. Frequent hormonal blemishes. Some congested pores. Normal to dry skin.

     Current skin regime –
     AM –
     Dr. Dennis Gross alpha beta cleaning gel. Love it!
     Paula’s Choice 2%BHA. Wait 5 minutes.
     Dr. Dennis Gross Ferulic acid and retinol brightening serum
     Dr. Dennis Gross Ferulic and Retinol anti ageing moisturiser.
     Sometimes a raspberry seed oil.
     Elta M.D. sunscreen
     Light powder foundation.

     PM –
     Double cleanse with coconut oil and Dr. DG alpha beta gel.
     Dr. DG alpha beta extra strength peel
     Dr. DG overnight resurfacing serum with retinol and Ferulic acid
     Dr. DG Ferulic and Retinol Anti ageing moisturiser.

     I am curious about adding Paula’s Choice AHA to my routine. Thoughts?

     Thanks!

     • Shalan, are you talking about these pads? https://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/dr-dennis-gross-alpha-beta-extra-strength-daily-peel-review/ They’re one of the few Dr Dennis Gross products I really don’t like.

       If your skin’s on the dry side than AHA can help BUT, I think it’s best to unclog those congested pores and deal with the hormonal acne with BHA. Once that’s dealt with, you can switch from BHA to AHA.

       I’m a fan of both exfoliation and retinol but I think you’re using too much right now. ONE skincare product with retinol in your skincare routine is more than enough. In fact, it’s best to start with one small dose of retinol and increase that dose overtime than bombarding your skin with 10 retinol products at a time. So pick one and use it at night only. Hope this helps.

140. Hi Gio, can i use hada labo hydrating water gel after using epiduo gel? I only put the epiduo on my acne. My doctor said to put on spot area only. But then i feel like my face is drying because i did not put any moisturizer after cleansing. So can i mix together that hada labo and epiduo? Hope you can clarify!

     • Anna, yes you can. But don’t mix them. Apply epiduo on troubled areas first and then hada labo all over.

141. Hi Gio!!

     Im so happy i found this page, thank you so much for enlightening us who are overwhelm with all the skincare in the market, this really helps me to understand products.

     However, I would like to ask still about incorporating some products on my skincare, currently my routine is:
     AM
     – after shower, cleanse face with plush micellar water with sweet orange tangerine and hyaluronic acid
     – Plush Triple Hyal Face Acne Solution 23H
     – Plush Extreme Comfort Cream SPF50

     PM
     – cleanse face with plush micellar water with sweet orange tangerine and hyaluronic acid
     – (Tue and Sat) apply plush .1% retinol for an hour, then cleanse again with micellar water
     – for moisturizer, I used plush intensive lifting / reconstruction salmon oil probiotic marine collagen

     I think I am lacking the exfoliation stage which I think is really important, I have Corsx BHA Power Liguid as well as Corsx AHA Power Liquid, do you think I can use it on days i dont use the retinol? Like Thursday? Can I use BHA in the morning of Thursday and AHA in the evening? However, I am scared because my skin is a little sensitive, I tried applying retinol overnight then my skin reacted with little bumps and dryness, i fix that by incorporating heavy moisturizer with oils. Or can i just opt to use a gentle daily exfoliating toner?

     2nd, currently I dont have any active pimples, mostly pimple marks and bumps here and there, for pimple marks I am eyeing to add niacinamide or vitamin c in the morning before my Plush Triple Hyal Face Acne Solution 23H, can you suggest which one should i try first?

     Hoping to hear your thoughts in this please, as still I am really overwhelmed . Thank you!

     • Apple, what is your skin type? BHA is for oily skin while AHA is for dry skin so you just need one. Having said that, if your skin is dry and sensitive, lactic acid would be the best exfoliating option for you. You can use the exfoliants a couple of nights a week, right after cleansing.

       Mmm, if your skin is sensitive I’d go with niacinamide first. Vitamin C may be too irritating for you. If that’s the case, this post can help: https://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/vitamin-c-for-sensitive-skin/

142. Hi Gio, informative, but I think you should correct you post regarding “don’t mix retinol and Vitamin C # as there are loads of different types of retinol and Vitamin C, which are happily coexist together in one bottle! For instance Tetra-C and grantactiv retinol (from Grant) spl? Also Encapsulated Retinol. As well as MAP have Ph of 7 and works great with Niacinamide.

     • Irina, thanks for your comment. I did mention Vitamin C in the form of L-Ascorbic Acid but rereading it, I couldn’t make it even clearer. Thanks for bringing this to my attention.

143. Great article! What are your thoughts on this article as it appears to state that Vit C can be combined with Niacinamide? https://www.paulaschoice.com/expert-advice/skincare-advice/myths/can-niacinamide-and-vitamin-c-be-used-together.html

     • Jes, I agree. They can totally be used together. Like I mentioned in this article, it’s only when they make your skin flush that you should use them separately.

144. Hello,

     I have been using retin + erase at night waiting 30 min and then using GIGI 15% azelaic acid for PM and then for AM I have been using dermed totarol serum on my oily zones. I wanted to try adding the ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%. Where should I put this into my routine?

     • Alyssa, use it in the morning after your dermed serum.

145. Hi Gio! I really love your articles but i still need your direct instruction for using skincare routines for AM and PM! So I am a new user of The ordinary products.
     Those items include: Hyllronic acid, Niacinamide, alpha arbutin, vitamin c suspension, caffein eye contour, the moisturizer which i forgot the name and rosehip oil. i also have aha/bha clarifying toner and PIXI glow tonic that i usually use after face cleansing.
     So i found it confused how to use these. My skin tone is more to dry sensitive and some dark spots eneven tone and acne prone/acne scars.
     Kindly need your direction for am and pm skincare! thankyou so so much!!!

     • Clelia, here’s your morning routine:
       Cleanse
       Vitamin C Suspension
       Hyaluronic acid
       Caffeine eye contour
       Moisturizer
       Sunscreen
       PM
       Cleanser
       Pixi Glow or AHA/toner
       Alpha arbutin
       Niacinamide
       Rosehip oil

146. Hi Gio ,
     I’m so glad I found this site .
     So I have a couple of questions regarding my skin care regimen.
     I have melasma on my cheeks and in the past would use hydroquinone for a short period of time .
     I have been using retin -A 0.05% periodically..
     I dont have many wrinkles yet for my age which is 50 so I feel lucky .however I want to start a new regime and this is what I have purchased and started to do.
     Am: cleanse with cera-v
     Then add timeless vitamin c 20% + feroulic acid then the ordinary lacid acid 5 + HA and then timeless coenzyme q10 and then either olay regenerist with spf 30 or cera v pm followed by la Roche posay face spf 60.
     PM: cleanse with face wipe then with cera v cleanser then I put on the retin A and then Olay regenerist micro sculpt cream .
     I just purchased the ordinarys alpha arbutin 2% +Ha
     I was thinking about putting that on over top of the retin -a or is that overkill and should I alternate nites with the retin-a ?
     Also am I using the right products and if down the road I want to bring in the hydroquinone back in when should I be placing that ?
     Thanks ?

     • Monica this is a great routine but I wouldn’t use Lactic Acid every day. A couple of times a week is more than enough. I’d use alpha arburin in the morning on days you’re not using lactic acid. If you want to bring hydroquinone back, stop using alpha arbutin and alternate it with retina A at night.

147. Hi Gio,
     I think I am doing this all wrong. My skin is irritated because I kind of went hog wild and bought everything because it was affordable.
     My skin type is dry, and for the last year or so have been having hormonal area breakouts pretty badly. (age 31) I’m also dealing with beginning signs of aging, enlarged pores, and dullness. I just purchased and have begun using the following routine. Can you tell me if I”m doing something wrong?

     AM
     Hyaluronic Product, AHA Product, Niacinamide + Zinc, 2%, Pat in a few drops of oil
     Order: AHA, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Oil or moisturizer/sunscreen)
     PM
     HA Product, Niacinamide + Zinc, 2% Retinoid, Pat in a few drops of oil
     Order (Retinoid, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Oil or moisturizer)

     Every other day, use the 5% peel. (Don’t use the retinoid on days you use the peel)

     XO
     Hannah

     • Hannah, I wouldn’t use niacinamide + zinc. That’s for oily skin. Yours is dry. Also, while I usually recommend AHA for dry skin, you also have hormonal acne and enlarged pores. In this case, it’s best to switch to salicylic acid. Use it until your skin is under control and clear again. After that, you may go back to AHA if you prefer. Also, if your exfoliate with salicylic acid or AHA, you may not need a peel in the evening. every day may be too much for your dry skin.

148. Hi!
     So currently this is my AM-PM routine:
     AM: Cosrx BHA+Missha Time Revolution FTE+Hadalabo Gokyujun Premium+The Ordinary Azelaic Acid+moisturizer+sunscreen when i go out
     PM: The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5%+Missha Time Revolution FTE+Hadalabo Gokyujun Premium+The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% in Squalane+moisturizer (I know you don’t suggest to use lactic acid every night, but my skin has been fine so i’m going to continue that)

     my question is:
     1. If I want to try introducing adapalene in my PM, would it be effective if i use it alternately with TO Retinoids? Because i think adapalene needs to be used consistently/every night?
     2. I also want to try new moisturizer that contains Aminopropyl Ascorbyl Phosphate and arbutin, would it be a good idea to do it with my current routine?
     Thanks!

     • Laras, you’re right, I don’t recommend using lactic acid every night, especially NOT as you’re using BHA every morning! Exfoliating both morning and night is totally unnecessary and can cause trouble in the long run, especially as the temperatures turn colder. Just pick the exfoliant that best works for your skin type and stick with it, if nothing else because you’re wasting time by using 2.

       Yes, if you go on adapalene, remove all other retinoids from your skincare routine. And if you go for the new moisturiser, stop using The Ordinary azelaic acid.

       Hope this helps

149. Hi Gio,
     What do you think of Beauty Counter?

     • Marian, I have mixed feelings about them. They use effective active ingredients but their products are full of essential oils and fragrant extracts that can be irritating, especially for sensitive skin.

150. Hi Gio! I have congested skin and have had a recent outbreak on my forehead alone, and some pimples down my chin. I started using Micellar cleansing water to wash out my make-up and then i use Cetaphil gentle skin cleanser. After which i use COSRXs AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner to help my skin clear. However, just recently i added a korean serum that’s called Elujai which main ingredients are Myrrh Oil and Propolis. I’ve been seeing great effects on my skin such as restored moisture, color and glow on my skin. Lastly i seal my am and pm regimen with Cetaphil moisturizing lotion. Now i’m having slight reactions to a new serum i’ve added, and it’s from The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%. I’ve been using this alongside with all the aformentioned products and i’ve been having a stingy sensation right after i use all these products. Is there any violent reaction between cetaphil and niacinamide? or does it have anything to do with my COSRXs toners and the serums i use ? I’d really appreciate any helpful advice thanks. <3

     • Zia, this is a tough question to answer. It’s not that there’s something wrong with this combo of products. It’s that everyone’s skin is different and the same combo can have different effects on people. In this case, there’s definitely something that’s bothering your skin. Have you tried using the products individually on your skin and see if that makes a difference? It should help you identify who the culprit is too.

151. Hi Gio,

     Hope you can take one more question about routine! I am 55 and people say I look at least 10 years younger, but I can’t give any product credit–I think it’s genes plus generally not being a sun-worshiper, and also having oily skin most of my life. But I moved to Boston from Florida four years ago, and my skin really changed from combination to predominantly dry–though I will still get occasional pimples or these odd bumps that my doctor has said are a form of rosacea. So when I get those, I use metrogel for a bit, but otherwise that’s not a normal part of my routine. I do still have large pores and some blackheads on my nose.

     But–to really keep ahead of aging and make my skin as supple as possible, but not break me out (I guess from years of oily skin, I am really averse to anything that might break me out), this is what I am currently using:

     Day: some days cleanse with Clean and Clear foaming face wash; others, just rinse with cool water.
     Cosrx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid (every other day)
     Hanskin Hyaluron Skin Essence
     Dr. Dennis Gross C+ Collagen Brighten and Firm
     The Ordinary Niaciniamide plus zinc
     The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA, sometimes with a drop of SkinActives Every Lipid Serum ( I know this is a heavy hitter, but I love how it makes my skin feel)

     Evening: Oil Cleanse with Banila Zero Purity, followed by the foam wash above
     Twice a week, Retin A .025%; otherwise, Paula’s Choice 8% AHA (I don’t use any other exfoliant on Retin A days)
     Hanskin Essence
     SkinActives Antoxidant Serum
     Niacinamide Plus Zinc
     Drunk Elephant Protini Peptide Cream

     I am also trying the SkinFix Calm and Repair sleep mask once a week, but it seems to make the other products peel underneath! Don’t know if I’m not waiting enough or it doesn’t agree with the SkinActives in particular.

     Does this seem like too much product to mix and match? I realize that since I am on the drier side now with less breakouts, I should probably switch to Paula’s Choice Niacinamide Booster. I also have the Ordinary’s Copper Serum, but I haven’t started it yet. Do I need both it and the Protini (was going to use the Ordinary’s product in the morning)? I have been adding only one new product a month and so far, other than some redness when I first started with the Vitamin C product, everything seems to be agreeing with my skin.

     I guess I’m pretty happy with where my skin is right now, but I wonder if I need all of this. Looked at the SkinCeuticals serum that people rave about, but even adding up what else I use, it doesn’t come close to the sticker price of the SkinCeuticals. And yes, my dirty secret is that most days, I don’t use sunscreen. Bad memories from my breakout days and I just hate how it feels on my face. If I’m going to be out in the sun for extended periods, yes, then I use it, but everyday? Nope.

     • Hi Rebecca,

       I like your routine but I would make some minor adjustments.

       Day: some days cleanse with Clean and Clear foaming face wash; others, just rinse with cool water.
       Cosrx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid – if you’re using this you DON’T need a AHA at night. They’re both exfoliants so pick the one your skin likes best and cut the other from your skincare routine
       Hanskin Hyaluron Skin Essence – try going without it for a few days. Does your skin feels dry and tight in the middle of the day without it? Add it back. Is your skin fine without it? Ditch it.
       Dr. Dennis Gross C+ Collagen Brighten and Firm – great choice! If you’re using this and the Skinactive serum at night, you DON’T need to invest in the Skinceuticals Vitamin C serum.
       The Ordinary Niaciniamide plus zinc – I agree re switching to Paula’s Choice Booster now your skin is dry. You can mix it with your fave serum or moisturiser too.
       The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA, sometimes with a drop of SkinActives Every Lipid Serum ( I know this is a heavy hitter, but I love how it makes my skin feel) – this is good but I would do it at night. In the morning, switch to a moisturiser with SPF so at least you’re wearing some SPF.
       Evening: Oil Cleanse with Banila Zero Purity, followed by the foam wash above
       Twice a week, Retin A .025%; otherwise, Paula’s Choice 8% AHA (I don’t use any other exfoliant on Retin A days) – keep using Retinoids A on alternate days but if you choose to stick to BHA ditch the AHA.
       Hanskin Essence – same as above. Once you’ve finished your daytime experiment, do the same thing at night and see how your skin feels with or without it. As winter is approaching, you may need to add it back in but in the warmer months, you may not need it.
       SkinActives Antoxidant Serum
       Niacinamide Plus Zinc – switch to PC!
       Drunk Elephant Protini Peptide Cream -if you want to switch to TO buffet + copper peptides, go for it. Just don’t use it with BHA/AHAs. You can alternate it with Retina A and apply your day moisturiser as night moisturiser.

       Hope this helps

       • Thanks! Yes, it helps.

         • Rebecca, you’re welcome. Glad it does.

     • Hi . Im a beginner for this the ordinary product . Previously , i only tried azelaic acid suspension and it does a good job on my skin . For your information , my skin type is combination. So recently , i just bought alpha arbutin , niacinamide and also lactic acid to add on my skincare routine. I just confused abt the correct / proper steps for these products and im afraid if they cant be use together on same routine . Hopefully you can help me on this . Thank you so much .

       • Sherra, alpha arbutin and azelaic acid are both for hyperpigmentation. Are you sure you need them both? I’d try each one for a month and see which one works best for you.

         In the AM, cleanse, niacinamide and sunscreen. At night, twice a week use lactic acid. Then, every night, you can use either azelaic acid or alpha arbutin. Alpha arbutin goes on dark spots only. Finish off with moisturiser.

     • Hello, I’m 18 years old and I burned my skin with salicylic acid which left my skin dark patches, which are hyperpigmentation, I brought azelaic acid, arbutin 2% + HA, vitamin c powder from ordinary and sunscreen. Would that be enough for my hyperpigmentation to go away? Also, I use the arbutin first on the patches, then seal it with azelaic acid and then top it off with aloe vera, would that work as well? i just started it today so can you tell if I’m doing is correct?

       • Jerlin, I think you may be overdoing it a little. use Azelaic Acid and arbutin separately, one month each, and see which one works best for you.

152. Hey! I was hoping you could help me with my schedule. I am 28 and have slightly dry skin, mostly clear but some discoloration, large pores and scarring. Here are my current products
     AM:
     Cleanser
     The Ordinary(TO) HA
     TO Buffet with Copper
     TO Alpha Arbutin
     TO Niacinamide
     Moisturizer and Sunscreen

     PM: Not sure how to combine Buffet, Alpha Arbutin, Niacinamide, Retinold, VIT C, Mandelic Acid? HELP! What should I cut out?

     • Hi Nicole,

       in the morning:

       Cleanser
       Vitamin C
       The Ordinary HA
       Sunscreen

       In the evening

       Cleanser
       Alternate between retinoid and mandelic acid
       Buffet with copper
       Alpha Arbutin
       Niacinamide

153. Hello, I’m hoping you can help me with my skincare routine. I’m 44 years old, oily skin with visible pores and some acne scars. My AM routine includes Cetaphil cleanser, Alpha H Clear skin daily moisturizer w/ glycolic acid and Supergoop everyday sunscreen SPF 50. My PM routine includes Cetaphil cleanser, The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% and Infiniti-C Moisturizer. I’m planning to add The Ordinary’s Niacinamide to my routine. I also do a weekly scrub using a Konjac sponge and green clay mask.

     • Eliza, the Ordinary niacinamide is a great choice for your skin type. But I’d get rid of the glycolic acid moisturiser and scrub. The only exfoliant oily skin needs is salicylic acid because it can penetrates and unclog the pores too.

154. Hello! I’m hoping you can help with my current routine. I’m 27, normal/oily, texture, some underground breakouts along the jaw line and prior acne scarring.

     AM:
     Corsx Good Morning Cleasner
     Klairs Supple Prep Toner or Clinique 3 Clarifying Lotion (I swith depding on how my skin is feeling)
     Eye Cream
     Drunk Elephant Protini Peptides

     PM:
     Face Shop Rice Water Cleansing Oil
     w/ Clarisonic : Aveda Gel Cleanser or Panoxyl 4%
     Aveda Skin Refiner when needed but never w/ Clarisonic use
     Mario Badescu Glycolic Acid or Clinique 3 Clarifying Lotion
     Eye Cream
     Drunk Elephant Protini Peptides or Organic Tamanu Oil with a few drops Tea Tree Oil

     *Aveda Clay Masque once a week.

     I am wanting to try The Ordinary products, not sure where to start!

     • Taylor, first stop exfoliating so much! You’re using Clinique 3 Clarifying Lotion, Mario Badescu Glycolic Acid and the Clarisonic, which are all exfoliants. That’s too much. Replace them all with The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution.

       I’ve created this anti-acne routine with The Ordinary products: https://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/guide-the-ordinary-acne-products/

       It works for oily skin, too. Just remove azelaic acid as you don’t need it.

155. So glad I found your blog. I really respect your opinion. I feel I walk into my esthetician office and I get the same product sale as the next woman. I am 46 years old, have skin combo more on oily side. I was told to use all the Skinceuticals products. Cleanser, c and e serum, Salicylic for anti aging and blemish control. And the moisturizer lipid something. I have rosacea and acne very controlled from Soolantra. . Not too much of a concern. I have been using prescription Retin-A since I was 24 so I do very well with that mixing in with my moisturizers. Is this too much is this not enough? My main concerns are wrinkles and future wrinkles. Would this be the route to go. I added all that up it’s about $500. Any other solutions. Should I take something away should I add something?

     • Colleen, I agree that if wrinkles and oily skin are your concern, adding a vitamin C serum and salicylic acid will help. But they don’t need to be from Skinceuticals. Paula’s Choice and Timeless have Vitamin C and E serum that are very similar dupes and cost less than $40. Paula’s Choice and The Ordinary also make good salicylic products. The Ordinary Salicylic acid 2% Solution is less than a tenner!

       If you already have a moisturiser and cleanser you like, there’s no need to switch to Skinceuticals.

       The aesthetician gave you some good advice on what actives work well for your skin type and concern, but after that you can shop around for products that work without breaking the bank.

156. which order should be appropriate in my skincare regimen?
     AM
     -Clinique liquid soap (type 3)
     -Clinique clarifying lotion(AHA BHA toner)
     -Hydrating serum
     -Clinique Hydrating jelly
     PM
     -Neutrogena oil free facial wash(2%salisylic acid) for acne prone skin
     -Simple soothing toner (witch hazel included)
     -Rosehip oil
     OR
     AM
     -Neutrogena oil free facial wash(2%salisylic acid) for acne prone skin
     -Simple soothing toner(witch hazel)
     -Hydrating serum
     -Clinique hydrating jelly
     PM
     -Clinique facial soap(type 3)
     -Clinique clarifying lotion type 3 (AHA BHA toner)
     -Rosehip oil

     • May, the second order is better.

157. What do you recommend for loss of volumen on face to avoid fillers also on nasolabial folds at corner of mouth

     • Maggie, sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but no topical product can restore volume. Once you lose that, you need fillers. I know some people have had success with facial exercise, but please note that there isn’t any research supporting its effectiveness.

     • Maggie, I thought I would help you out here and let you know that the Carolyns Facial Fitness is an effective, cheap and efficient face yoga program that restores volume and helps to less nasolabial folds at the corner of the mouth. Check her out! It really helped to plump up my skin and reduce my lines… combined with a good skincare regimen. The good news is, the program only takes fifteen minutes once you learn it. I thought I’d recommend this since it’s made a big difference to my face. Good luck!

158. First of all, sorry for incomplete comment before . So , I am 24 years old , and my skin type is combination . At this moment my concern is to solve dullness , uneven skin tone and also acne scars. So this is my current routine.

     AM:
     Simple Gel Cleanser
     Simple Toner
     TO Alpha Arbutin
     Aiken Moisturizer
     Biore Sunscreen

     PM :
     Neutrogena Oil Cleanser
     Simple Gel Cleanser
     Simple Toner
     TO Alpha Arbutin
     Aiken Moisturizer

     * So as i just purchased Lactic Acid and Niacinamide , when should i use them ?

     Thank you so much for your time Gio .

     • Sherra, what do you mean with uneven skin tone? Alpha Arbutin is for hyper pigmentation and dark spots and should only be used on those areas, never all over the face.

       For dullness, you need exfoliation. Use lactic acid three times a week after toner in the evening. You can use niacinamide instead of alpha arbutin either in the morning or evening. Hope this helps.

159. Gerd, I’m replying here because we’ve run out of space.

     Check this post for tips on how to introduce retinol into your skincare routine, including the products that are most suitable for you at your beginner stage: https://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/strength-retinol-need/

     Use retinol after cleansing and then apply niacinamide.

160. Hi Gio thanks so much for all the great advice! I wanted to ask if to save some time in the morning is it ok to mix in the palm of my hand TO’s hylauronic acid+b5, ascorbyl glucoside 12% and resveratrol+ferulic together? I apply this after cleansing, toning and eye cream and before moisturizer and sunscreen. I am 38 with mixed oily/dry skin, hyperpigmentation and some large pores and some forehead and eye wrinkles (nothing too bad though :))

     • Melissa, you could but I’m not a fan of mixing active ingredients because there’s always the chance you could dilute them or mess up the ph. If you want to save time in the morning, you’re better off ditching the toner and mixing TO hyaluronic acid with your moisturiser.

161. hi gio, this is my skincare routine:
     am:
     facial wash
     alpha arbutin
     nature republic
     sunblock
     pm:
     facial wash
     glossier super pure
     alpha arbutin
     nature republic
     glamglow supermud
     if you don’t mind, i would like to ask for your advise… thanks

     • Widya, are you trying to fade away dark spots? This is a good skincare routine.

       Glamglow supermud should be used only a couple of times a week after cleanser. Wait 20 min, wash it off and proceed with the rest of your skincare routine.

162. Hi Gio!

     Can vitamin C be used along with an aha/bha toner? I’ve been wanting to try the OleHenriksen oil control toner but not sure if it would be too harsh or not to combine vitamin c with another acid like aha or bha

     • Vanessa, it really depends on your skin. Most people can use this combo but if your skin is sensitive, it may be too harsh indeed.

163. Hi Gio! i’m 21yo and have a lot of acne red scars or PIE i think. so i want to reduce the redness here’s my skincare routine but its not help
     anything with my scars
     Cleanser : cetaphil gentle cleanser AM/PM
     AM
     -the ordinary niacinamide
     -sunscreen

     PM
     -klairs fleshly juice vit c or alpha arbutin

     i’ve already purchased pixi glow tonic and klairs supple toner when can i use them in my skincare. can klairs vit c or alpha arbutin be used along with pixi glow tonic?

     • Mega, do you have scars of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation? If they’re dark spots left behind by pimples, alpha Arbutin should have worked already. You can trey adding pixi glow tonic three nights a week and see what happens. But if they’re proper scars and not just discolouration, there’s nothing skincare products can do. You need to see a doctor for laser or other treatment.

164. Hi Gio. You have been extraordinarily generous with your time, answering everyone’s questions. I hesitate to add mine, but I haven’t been able to find any other information about this specific issue. Three times per week, I use a 2% salicylic acid cleanser (Clearasil) on my whole face, and, once a week, I have just started using a sulfur mask (DDF) on oily face areas only (forehead, chin). I am not generally acne prone, but I occasionally get hormonal spots on my chin that often leave hyperpigmentation for 3-4 months. To fade those spots faster, do you think that it would be worth adding a glycolic acid toner to my chin on days when I don’t use other exfoliants, or maybe a niacinimide or alpha arbutin cream/serum for spot treatment? Or am I doing about the best I can with the salicylic acid/sulfur? I know you mentioned that BHAs/AHAs shouldn’t be used together, but I have heard that AHAs can be very effective in fading spots and it seems my results with my BHA wash are limited. And how does the sulfur fit in? Thanks a million!

     • Hi Erin, thank you for your comment and your support. Try switching to a leave-in exfoliant with salicylic acid to prevent hormonal spots in the first place. SA is more effective when you leave it on the skin than when you wash it off.

       But once the spots have cleared, you can indeed using glycolic acid as a spot treatment on the discolouration they leave behind. It does work well fo this kind of spots indeed. Only if you don’t see any results, try a more powerful treatment like alpha arbutin or azelaic acid.

165. Hello Gio,

     I currently have Niacinamide, Alpha Arbutin & Rose Hip oil from The Ordinary, Cetaphil gentle cleanser, Derma E AHA exfoliator, Dickinson Witch hazel toner & Nature Republic Aloe Vera gel. I have oily and Acne prone skin. I just want to ask what will be the best skin care routine for me? I used the ordinary nia & alpha arbutin for a couple of days and I had zits, it makes my face itchy and bumpy, I put 3 drops on my face day and night. Since Aloe Vera gel calms my face everytime I breakout. Can I still use it after serums? Thank you so much in advance.

     • Ezra, if you have oily, acne-prone skin stop using a AHA exfoliator and switch to salicylic acid. I’m not sure why you’re using alpha arbutin as that’s a spot treatment for dark spots. If your makes your skin itchy, don’t use it all.

       You can use niacinamide in the morning and salicylic acid followed by reship oil in the evening.

166. Hi,

     I am wondering how to use retinol (the ordinary) , vitamin c ester (perricone), niacinamide + zinc and alpha arubtin.

     • Amita, you can use vitamin C followers by alpha Arbutin in the AM and retinol followed by niacinamide in the evening.

167. Hi Gio,

     Thank you so much for kindly sharing your knowledge on skin care, I enjoyed reading your interactions with your readers! You are really kind to help them better figure out the correct order to their skincare routine – I am wondering if you could help me find mine (a little confused here as I am a newbie to skincare).

     I used to suffer from acne for the past 3+ years, but I now have clear skin and would like to very much maintain it, hence the interest in skincare. Though I seldom get blemishes, my face still suffers from redness and acne scars. I also have noticeable blackheads on my nose that I’d like to get rid of.

     Here’s my skincare routine:

     – AM:
     1. Cleanser
     2. Toner
     3. Cicapair Dr. Jart serum
     4. Moisturizer
     5 . SPT

     – PM:
     1. Cleanser
     2. Toner
     3. Sunday Riley’s Luna
     4. Sunday Riley’s Good Genes
     5. Moisturizer

     I just recently bought Biossance’s Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil and The Ordinary’s Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% per my friend’s recommendation. I am wondering if: 1. my skincare routine order is correct, and 2. how to properly incorporate those 2 new skincare into my routine in order to address my skincare problem?

     Thank you so much in advance for your help. I really appreciate your time and I look forward to hearing from you 🙂

     Best,
     Angeline

     • Hi Angeline, you can use The Ordinary’s Niacinamide + Zinc in the morning instead of Dr Jart serum. That has niacinamide too but if your skin is oily, The Ordinary will work better for you.

       You can use Biossance at night instead of your moisturizer. I’d also change Good Genes for an exfoliant with salicylic acid. Unlike Good Genes, salicylic acid can exfoliate your pores and keep acne from coming back.

168. Hello Gio,
     Thanks for the wonderful insight, I have been using Clindamycin in the morning Tretinoin at PM as prescribed by my dermatologist from the past 6 months. My Acne is in control but my skin has become super dry.. I was looking to introduce hyaluronic acid in the AM before my moisturizer but after Clindamycin. What are your thoughts?

     Any suggested routine??

     -Padma

     • Padma, I’d apply it before moisturizer so the moisture HA attracts to the skin stays in. And you can use it in the PM too.

169. Hi Gio,
     I have oily skin with large pores and some hyperpigmentation that I want to minimize. I really don’t know where to begin with a routine. I’ve heard good things about Sunday Riley’s Good Genes, but I don’t know if that’s enough. I would also like to incorporate retinol and alpha arbutin into rotation. Obviously, the retinol would be used every other night alternating with Good Genes. I suppose that the alpha arbutin would be used in the AM. Can I use Maelove’s the Glowmaker with the Alpha Arbutin? Are there any products you suggest? Thanks for your help,
     Nicole

     • Nicole, Sunday Riley Good Genes is a good product – for dry skin. Yours is oily so you need salicylic acid. SA can get inside the pores, removing all the excess oil and other impurities in the pores. Once the pores are clean, they will shrink back to their original size.

       In the AM, cleanse, Maelove, sunscreen. In the evening, salicylic acid, alternate between alpha arbutin and retinol, and then moisturise.

170. Hi! These comments and your replies have been so informative. Thank you! I also have a question. I want to introduce Ordinary Alpha Arbutin and the Hylamide SubQ Anti-Age serum. I also just bought an AHA:BHA serum. I’m 50 and have a lot of emerging sun spots.

     1. I already use Timeless C plus Ferulic in the AM after a cold water wash. CAN I follow that with the Alpha Arbutin or should I alternate?

     2. I use Drunk Elephant Protini as an AM and PM moisturizer. Should I avoid using that or my SUbQ serum after my AHA/BHA serum because of the peptides? If so, how much time should I allow between acids and peptides?

     • Hi Ashely, yes you can use Alpha Arbutin after Timeless Vitamin C and SubQ after exfoliation. But introduce these products one at a time to give skin time to get used to the new actives.

171. Hi Gio,
     I just have a quick favor to ask. Could you evaluate my skin care routine and if I’m doing everything right. I’m not too sure if I’m mixing the right products to get the most effective results.
     In the morning,
     – Panoxyl Benzoyl Peroxide cleanser
     – COSRX snail mucin essence
     – vitamin C & hyaluronic acid
     – first aid beauty moisturizer

     At night,
     – same cleanser
     – pixi glow tonic or sometimes the ordinary glycolic acid toner
     – same essence
     – (im not sure which serum to use: the ordinary azelaic acid or the ordinary lactic 5% + HA I want to reduce hyperpigmentation however I also have sensitive dry skin)
     – same moisturizer

     Please let me know your input! Anything will help! Thank you so much!!

     • Hi Famie, I’d love to help but I’m not really sure what you’re trying to accomplish with your skincare routine. You say you have dry sensitive skin that’s pigmented but then are using a benzoyl peroxide cleanser that suitable only for acne-prone skin? If you don’y have acne, ditch that immediately!

172. Hi, i recently bought the ordinary’s products; alpha arbutin and niacinamide to try and battle my acne and scaring. However I already use acne.org’s benzoyl peroxide treatment. are these okay to use all together and do have any suggestions on the order which i should use them?

     • Hayley, you can use them together but, as a rule, benzoyl peroxide is only for active acne, ie pimples. If you don’t have any pimples, you can leave it out.

173. Hi,
     thank you for your informative blog. I need some advice on my products.

     I am 7 weeks post partum with baby #2 (a surprise baby at age 45…although many think I am 10 years younger at least) and had pretty decent skin throughout my pregnancy. I was using Drunk Elephant c firma (am) with drunk elephant protini moisturizer until I ran out of both. I did use DE glycolic serum at night until I ran out. I was uncertain if it was doing much for me though, so did not repurchase and started Caudalie products as they are safe in pregnancy and nursing.

     My main issue now is with hyperpigmentaton (sunspots, marks from old pimples, melasma) and wanting to maintain hydration to help with aging especially during winter months now. I have combo skin (oily t zone and dehydrated cheeks) which I think can be sensitive and is pigmented more so since pregnancy. I am using niacinamide, lactic acid and brightening radiance serum from Caudalie (see below).

     My current routine is:
     AM:
     cleanse: with gentle cleanser (Consonant foaming wash) OR just water.
     tone: (rosewater and glycerin by heritage)
     serum: (niacinamide by the Ordinary), vinoperfect brightening radiance serum by Caudalie
     moisturize: (organic ultra moisturizing cream/lotion by Consonant)* It has niacinamide in it I think
     sometime I use squalane oil as well
     sunscreen: Drunk Elephant sheer umbra

     PM:
     cleanse (Consonant cleanser OR oil cleanse with sweet almond oil/jojoba oil few times a week)
     tone: rosewater and glycerin, grape water or elixir by Caudalie
     essence: Caudalie brightening essence with glycolic in it (don’t know how much though).
     serums: Caudalie vinopeferct radiance brightening serum, niacinamide by the Ordinary (a I started using the Ordinary’s lactic acid and will sue every other day to start).
     mositurize: Caudalie overnight renewal cream
     oil: Kosmea roship oil

     My questions are:
     1. Can you use niacinamide twice a day? Can it dry you out? I feel I have gotten reddish/flushing on my cheeks and some mini red spots, but it doesn’t itch or hurt.
     2. Is my PM routine okay or is it too much. I am targeting pigmentaiton on my cheeks mainly and nose as well as aging (lines, hydration etc). I want my pregnancy glow to stay 🙂
     3. Can I use lactic acid with niacinamide plus rosehip oil in same routine? Or should I just stick with niacinmade OR lactic acid in one routine with the rosehip oil?do I put on lactic acid first then any other serums? Even if other serums appear more watery?
     4. I am open to suggestions for products (especially moisturizers as I am running out of what I have).
     5. Caudalie products say you can use day and night even though the essence has glycolic acid in it and the serum has vinefrine for brightening (from the grape sap which is 62xmore potent than vit c, and they also claim more potent than kojiac, arbutin for brightening). I thought you shouldn’t use glycolic acid in the day time? Can I use the radiance serum in the day or should I keep it for night time?

     Thank-you in advance and keep up the great work!

     Kay

     • Kay, congratulations on baby #2! Pregnancy can play tricks on the skin, but its so worth it in the end. 🙂 To answer your questions:

       1. You can use TO niacinamide twice a day on oily areas but I wouldn’t use it at all on dry areas. This is a product for oily skin only.

       2. That depends on you. Are you happy with the results or do you want to simplify to spend less time on skincare?

       3. Yes, you can use lactic acid first, then niacinamide and then rosehip oil.

       4. You can find my fave moisturisers for oily skin here: https://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/how-to-care-for-combination-skin/

       5. You can use it in the morning as well, as long as you put on sunscreen afterwards. But if you want to keep your routine shorter in thr morning, you can use it only at night.

174. Hello Good,
     I have been admiring your blog for a while now. Since I am new to retinoids, I would like to start using it ( The Ordinary granactive retinoid 2 %) for enlarged pores and signs of aging ( I am 36). However, I am currently using The Ordinary SubQ serum,which contains one form of Retinoid complex.
     Do you think they can be safely used ( on alternate nights) ?

     • Ivy, I am confused as to why you want to sue another form of retinoid? If you’re happy with the SubQ Serum, keep using that. If it doesn’t give you the results you crave, switch to something more powerful. But don’t use two retinoids in the same routine, unless the product is formulated with more than one form of retinoid by a properly trained chemist.

175. MORNING
     J.One Jelly Cleanser
     Dear Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin C Serum
     Dear Klairs Supple Preparation Toner
     CosRx Snail Mucin 96 Power Essence
     Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Eye
     CosRx Advanced 92 All in One Cream
     Sunblock

     NIGHT
     Heimish All Clean Balm
     J.One Jelly Cleanser
     Dear Klairs Supple Preparation Toner
     The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Squalene OR CosRx Blackhead Power Liquid OR CosRx Whitehead Power Liquid (depends on what I feel my skin needs)
     Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Eye
     Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate
     Kiehl’s Super Multi-Corrective Cream
     Laneige Water Sleeping Mask

     TWICE A WEEK DEEP CLEANSE
     Heimish All Clean Balm
     J.One Jelly Cleanser
     CosRx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid (20 minutes, do not rinse)
     Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask (wash off after 20 minutes)
     Heimish All Clean Balm (massage onto face then rinse)

     Your thoughts please? I am 32yo and have combination skin.

     • JAS, if this skincare routine is working for you, I don’t see any reason to change anything.

176. Hi , I am using Meiji collagen powder in the night time with hot milk and Melano vitamin c serum for face in morning and night time . But I just came to know that these two products cannot be use together because these products does not work together.i am really worried. Can you guide me ? I am asking from many bloggers but they do not reply . But in your blog you did not mention collagen .

     • Aisha, why do you think they can’t be combined? I don’t see anything wrong with them.

177. Hi Gio,
     As everyone else, I’d like to say thank you for your blog, comments and answers. I’m reasonably new to all of this beauty regime malarkey (as someone said: better late than never!) and I’m glad I’ve stumbled upon your site.
     I’m nearly 48, with pretty normal skin, just the usual signs of aging and ‘laughter lines’. I started with The Ordinary back in November (Buffet, rosehip oil, matrixyl+ha) and Pixi’s Glow and Retinol Tonic. A couple of weeks ago I bought Drunk Elephant’s Littles. I love their TLC Framboos serum and I was wondering if I could use the TO Matrixyl 10%+HA with it instead of their B-Hydra as they suggest? Or even TO’s Hyaluronic Acid 2%+B5? I am starting to see a difference…my lines are softer and I’m looking less haggard and I wouldn’t want to go and upset the apple cart! I’d love to hear your thoughts:)

     • Vicki, thank you for your kind words. I appreciate your support.

       Yes, you can use TO Matrixyl + HA instead than B-Hydra. But Framboos has glycolic acid too so choose either that or Pixi Glow.

178. Hello! I have pretty dry skin with a little bit of discoloration and some tiny bumps on my face (not acne),I typically have clear, unproblematic skin other than that. I purchased a couple of The Ordinary products for these problems and I was hoping which ones I should use in which order, also if there are any other T.O. products you would recommend for me please let me know. Thank you so much

     -Mandelic Acid 10% +HA
     -Alpha Arbutine 2% +HA
     -AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
     -%100 Plant- Derived, Hemi- Squalene

     • Kavisha, try using mandelic acid in the morning and alpha arbutin in the evening, both followed by Squalane.

179. Thank you so much for your response . Here is the reference where they said collagen should not combine with vitamin C serum . You can watch from 9:10 https://youtu.be/6B9Y0fUirZ8

     • Aisha, thanks for the video. I don’t really get her argument, though. Collagen is too big to penetrate the skin anyway. So if you apply vitamin C and layer a collagen serum on top you’ll be fine.

180. Hi! Would it be okay if I use Tamanu oil right after The Ordinary Glycolic Acid toner? (TTHS) And the on MWF, I’ll cleanse with raw African black soap and follow it with Tamanu oil? This will be my PM routine.

     • Micah, I don’t recommend black soap because it’s drying. But the rest of your skincare routine is fine.

181. Hi. i want to ask you can i wear a moisturizer that contains ceramides and PHA(MISSHA TOTAL CERAMIDE CREAM) with alpha arbutin (GOW) in a routine.

     • Syaza, yes you can.

182. Hi! I’ve just read your blog and I want to say thank you for how helpful you are! So I have rosacea, sensitive skin, occasional pimples due to rosacea, combo dry/oily skin, and hyperpigmentation (sun damage and acne scars). I also did accutane when I was younger and have been using azelaic acid since and that helps calm down the redness and pimples a little bit. I’ve bought the Vichy vitamin c 15% brightener, melazopam azelaic acid, simple micellar water with niacinamide, and basic CeraVe moisturizing cream. I was thinking of this order for my routine but wanted to know your thoughts about mixing:
     AM:
     Azelaic acid
     Vitamin C
     CeraVe moisturizer
     PM:
     Micellar water
     Azelaic acid
     CeraVe moisturizer

     Thank you soooooo much! I’ve struggled with so many skin problems for so long and any advice would be amazing.

     • Tessa, I’d use vitamin C before Azelaic Acid. Apart from that, it’s a great skincare routine. 🙂

183. I am new to The Ordinary. I just started TO Caffine for eye dark circle, and keen to try the Advanced Retinoid/ Granactive Retinoid2% Emulsion and Alpha Arbutin+HA.I’m just not sure if my order will be correct. My current routine are…

     I am 35 yo, normal combo, fair skin with some sun spot, some pores problem too.

     AM:
     – Korean Beauty Water (to tone)
     – Korean Secret Key Water Essence mix with Philosophy Vit C Powder
     – **Thinking of adding the Alpha Arbutin 2%+HA to this step
     – TO Caffine
     – Eye cream
     – Loccitane Aqua moisturiser
     – Sunscreen

     PM:
     – Korean Beauty Water (to tone)
     – Korean Secret Key Water Essence mix with Philosophy Vit C Powder
     – Alpha Arbutin 2%+HA ??
     – Lancome Advanced Genifique serum
     – TO Caffine
     – Eye cream
     – Trilogy night cream

     I also have a Derma E Victamic C serum not sure which step I should i include this.

     Thanks & Appreciated!!!!

     • LL, you’re already using Philosophy Vitamin C powder so you don’t need Derma E serum too. The Alpha Arbutin placement is correct, use it on discolourations only.

184. Hi! I’ve just started reading your page and was wondering if you could help me, your advice for other people had been so insightful to skincare?
     I suffer from hormonal acne around my chin so I break out for about a week every month which leave my skin with red marks that take ages to fade away. I want to introduce a retinol into my routine but don’t know how it will fit with my routine, I’ve purchased the The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% in Squalane to use but don’t know how it will react with the products I currently use. I don’t ‘treat’ the spots rather let them do their thing, I’m more concerned with treating the marks that acne leaves on my skin. Currently my routine is:

     AM
     Micellar water to cleanse
     La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo
     Eye Cream (I’m not loyal, just something for hydration)
     Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF 50+
     (I don’t like to use to many products in the morning due to time restraints in the morning, and I have very oily skin and find when I use too many products in the morning, my make-up doesn’t last as well, regardless of the primer I use, or the skincare piles as I’m applying make up)

     PM
     Garnier Simply Essentials Eye Make-Up Remover
     Garnier Pure Active Make Up Remover Purifying Gel (contains Salicylic Acid)
     Cetaphil Oily Cleanser with a Foreo Face Brush (I’m tempted to try the CeraVe Cleanser when this runs out if it would be better)
     Thayers Witch Hazel Toner (not everyday, just 3/4 times a week)
     Mario Badescu Facial Spray (any of the three depending on mood)
     The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid + B5
     The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA or The Ordinary Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin 2%
     Eye Cream
     La Roche – Posay Effaclar Duo Moisturiser

     I use various face masks 1/2 times a week but the main ones are Lush Mask of Magnaminty, GlamGlow Supermud or La Roche Posay Effaclar Clay Mask and different Korean sheet masks for hydration if I’ve used a one of the previous masks.

     My main concern is whether I can use the retinol with the Alpha Arbutin 2% serum – I know I can’t mix it with ascorbic acid. Is there any other products you would recommend? I’ve tried in the past The Ordinary Niacinamide serum, The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% and Rosehip oil, but stop using them because I didn’t feel they worked for me ( I still have them if you think they would work). What order do you think the products would work best in?

     Sorry for the super long post – I’m started to get frustrated in not seeing much difference in my skin and want to get somebody else’s opinion.

     • Hi Hannah, I hear your frustration! Here are some quick tweaks I’d make:

       1. Replace Effaclar Duo in the morning with The Ordinary Salicylic Acid to help prevent spots and dark marks in the first place.
       2. Alpha Arbutin goes only on dark marks, don’t apply it all over.
       3. You can use the retinoid instead than the toner every other day.

       If you need more help to create the perfect skincare routine for you, I now offer bespoke consultations. You can book yours here: https://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/skincare-consultation/

       Hope this helps!

185. Hi there please guide me how to layer products at night time
     I have The Ordinary
     Hyaluronic acid
     Salicylic acid
     Vitamin C cream
     Moisturizer
     What to apply first i am confused please help me 😊

     • Aqi, as a rule, always exfoliate after cleansing. After that, apply products with the thinner texture first and those with the thicker texture last. If you need more help to create the perfect skincare routine for you, I now offer bespoke consultations. You can book yours here: https://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/skincare-consultation/
       Hope this helps!

186. Gio you are amazing and generous. I’m confused about one thing and I apologize if it’s a repeat. SkiBetter AltNet night time says its ingredients are retinol and AHA. This is such a good brand I would assume they have figured out how to combine the two items? Or what am I missing / not understanding. It does leave my skin much happier than prescription Retin-A alone. Thank you!

     • Cynthia, yes when two “incompatible” ingredients are in the same product, it’s because cosmetic chemists adjusted doses/pH etc to make them work together. It’s when you DIY and mix/layer products that shouldn’t be mixed that you can experience side effects.

187. Hi Gio, thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. Just wanted some advice on the skincare products I bought recently. I’m 21 with dry, sensitive skin that is acne prone but I usually only break out around that time of the month. My aim is to prevent breakouts and clear up my hyperpigmentation and PIE. If you could guide me on how I could incorporate the new products in my routine, I’d really appreciate it.

     My current routine is
     AM
     Aveeno Clear complexion salicylic acid cleanser
     Thayers witch hazel toner
     Caudalie vinoperfect radiance serum
     Vichy collagen cream OR Neutrogena salicylic acid moisturizer (or both)
     SPF 60 sunscreen

     PM
     Same cleanser
     Same toner but thinking about TO glycolic acid toner instead
     Caudalie vinoperfect radiance serum
     Caudalie vinoperfect Brightening Glycolic night cream

     New products:
     TO Glycolic Acid 7% Toning solution
     TO ascorbyl Glucoside solution 12%
     TO Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
     TO Mandelic Acid
     OleHenrikson Goodnight glow Retin-Alt sleeping creme*

     Can I use TO glycolic acid toner with Caudalie’s glycolic night cream or is it too much glycolic acid?
     When would I apply alpha arbutin and ascorbyl glucoside? together? AM or PM?
     What would you recommend to prevent future breakouts? TO salicylic acid 2%?
     *I only got a trial size of the olehenrikson retin-alt cream so if I don’t need it, I would probably just give it to my mother.

     Thank you so much!

     • Nailah, you can check out this post to know how to prevent hormonal breakouts: https://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/ultimate-guide-dealing-hormonal-acne/

       NEVER use more than ONE glycolic acid products at any one time.

       If you need more help to create the perfect skincare routine for you, I now offer bespoke consultations. You can book yours here: https://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/skincare-consultation/

188. Hi Gio, it’s so nice of you to take your time replying everyone. You’re an angel. I just got The Ordinary 100% L-ascorbic powder. Would it be okay if I mixed it with my cetaphil moisturizing lotion? I was told that topical vitamin c works at a PH of 2.5 to 3.5. Is there any mild moisturizer I can mix it with if cetaphil is not a good match?
     Sorry if my English is bad, it’s only a second language. Looking forward to your reply.

     • Cynthia, I don’t recommend vitamin C powders. Any good moisturiser would have a pH around 5.5 so it’s tricky to use them in a way that’s effective.

189. Hey! I’m just getting better from an acne breakout. I only use in the morning niacinamide from the ordinary and a really light weigh moisturizer but I know have dark acne scars. I want to know how is better to use the glycolic acid toner, the nianciamide and effaclar duo+ from la roche posay, in the pass I have use the glycolic toner and lactic acid every other day but I dont know how to get the best of this products.

     • Karen, when you say scar, do you mean an actual scar or a dark spot? if dark spots, exfoliating with glycolic acid 3 nights a week after cleansing can help. If it’s an actual scar, you need to see a dermatologist.

190. I wish I’ve seen this post before! While I am aware of some of the combo no-no you listed, I wasn’t aware of this one NIACINAMIDE + VITAMIN C!
     My moisturizer has Niacinamide in it and I’ve been putting moisturizer after Vitamin C in the AM. Should I stop doing that?
     Thank you!

     • Helen, please read the entire post. As I’ve written, using them together is a problem only if you get flushing.

191. Hi. Can you please help me with my skincare routine as I’m really confused about the usage of certain products. I get closed comedones quite often and I’m battling a few acne scars and uneven skin tone.

     Neutrogena oil free cleanser (salycilic acid 2%)
     Cosrx oil free ultra moisturising lotion
     Klairs supple preparation facial toner
     Beesline ultrascreen cream spf 50
     Cosrx bha blackhead power liquid
     Mizon aha 8% peeling serum
     TO niacinamide + zinc
     TO alpha arbutin 2% + HA

     I use toner, sunscreen and moisturizer in the morning and at night I apply toner, aha, bha, moisturize but it isn’t really helping me much. Am i over exfoliating by using aha bha every night? Also I bought the ordinary products a week ago, haven’t tried it yet. I would be really grateful if you could help me.

     • Hafsa, yes you’re definitely overexfoliating. Use only ONE BHA leave-on exfoliant.

       I’ve written a guide on how to add The Ordinary anti-acne products in your routine here: https://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/guide-the-ordinary-acne-products/

       If you need more help to create the perfect skincare routine for you, I now offer bespoke consultations. You can book yours here: https://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/skincare-consultation/

192. I just started Curology and it’s working great, it has Azelaic Acid, clindamycin, and niacinamide. If I’m using it at night would it be dangerous for my skin barrier to use P50 in the morning occasionally?

     • Tara, I wouldn’t say dangerous but it’s not recommended. The best exfoliant for your skin type is salicylic acid.

193. I’m thinking of getting the klairs vitamin E mask, is it any good? If yes must I use it with a vitamin C serum?

     • Sophia, yes it’s a good mask for dry skin. And yes, you can use it with vitamin C.

194. hi gio , i want to know about my skincare routine ,
     AM : i wash my face using Aha +bha hada labo , hada labo hydrating lotion, garnier vitamin c essence and hada labo hydrating cream ,
     PM : same as above but except the garnier vitamin c and hada labo hydrating cream , i use Yanko night cream (taiwan’s product).

     I usually have tiny bumps on my forehead and cheeks , but im asking u , is it okay if i mix them together in my skincare routine , for the tiny bumps it seems not working with it , i dont know how to deal with it , can u suggest some affordable products for me ?

     • Khairiyah, try a leave-on salicylic acid exfoliant. BHA works better when left on a skin for hours than in a cleanser that’s rinsed down the drain after a minute.

195. I’ve been using The Ordinary Niacinamide with the Mad Hippie Vitamin C at the same time in the morning. I’ve also been using Murads outsmart acne clarifying treatment. Is that ok or should I use each on opposite days.

     • Karina, you can use niacinamide a vitamin c together in the morning. Murad has glycolic acid and that’s best used at night. You can use it everyday if you don’t find too drying, otherwise every other day.

196. Hi! I was just wondering if I can use Cerave Foaming cleanser, Mario Badescu glycolic acid toner and Cerave AM facial moisturiser together? Or if it will cause some reaction to my skin. I often use a thin later of sink cream when i sleep, which I put on AS the last fisnish. Is that okay to use also with the other products?

     I don’t understand all this about AHA’s, BHA’s, Retinol etc, but I have struggled with hormonal acne the last six months. Which has totally exploded -when I at a depreate time, used a lot of different products(cleansers, toners, serum, acne-creams, spot treatments, masks, scrubs and so on) all in different brands, and mixed it all. I try now to use few products that are mild and do not break me out. I have combination skin, which is a bit sensitive and have had a tendensy of getting dry in acne-treatments.

     So I’m just wondering: what will you recomend for me to do?

     • Elisabeth, the skincare routine you suggested is fine, but use salicylic acid instead then glycolic as it’s more effective for acne. Both Paula’s Choice and The Ordinary have some great salicylic acid exfoliants.

197. Hi Gio! After I apply some toner and essence/serum/ampoule, can you tell me the order I should put on next which includes sheet masks, oil, and moisturizer? thank you so much!

     • Jane, sheet mask, moisturizer and oil.

198. I’m learning so much!! I’m about to start your recommended acne fighting routine with The Ordinary’s products and I’d like to add in a Vitamin C (I’m leaning towards Mad Hippie). I’m definitely a newbie to combining all these different products and get so nervous. How does this routine look?

     AM:
     Cleanse
     Salicylic Acid
     Azelaic Acid Suspension
     Vitamin C (in the morning to keep it away from Niacinamide?)
     Sunscreen

     PM:
     Cleanse
     Retinoid Serum (2-3 times a week)
     Niacinamide + Zinc
     100% Plant Derived Squalane

199. Hi Gio!
     I am relatively new to skin care–just discovered your site and love what I’m reading. I am 32 with some sun damage spots, and blackheads on nose, chin, and in ears. This is my current routine. Would you recommend adding salicylic acid? Can I use vitamin C serum AM and PM?

     AM
     Cleanse
     Vitamin C serum
     TO Alpha Arbutin
     Moisturize/SPF

     PM
     Cleanse
     TO glycolic acid toner
     Alternate: TO Granactive Retinoid 2%/TO Lactic acid
     TO Alpha Arbutin
     Niacinamide
     What do you think? Thanks!

     • Laura, why are you using glycolic AND lactic acid? Ditch them both and use salicylic acid in the PM after cleansing. Vit C AM only.

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