Building the perfect beauty routine can be a real obstacle course. When we have a number of skin problems, it can be tempting to "pile on" the products we use on our skin. And while this is essential if we are to meet all our skin's needs, we need to be careful about which active ingredients we can and cannot mix. Some active ingredients will cause irritation, while others will be more or less effective. Here's a handy guide to building a skincare routine like a pro!
What happens when you apply several products?
An effective product contains one or more active ingredients. Each of these active ingredients is formulated at a certain pH, with other ingredients to help them penetrate the skin or multiply their effects. Vitamin E, for example, when used as an antioxidant and active principle, needs vitamin C in the formula to have interesting effects.
Every cosmetic formula is complex. Thus, the main risk when applying different products one after the other is to cause irritation irritation, or rendering the active ingredients less effective.. It can even increase skin sensitivity over the long term. Finally, partly for pH reasons, you may even cancel out the effect of two products.
For example, vitamin C is rather acidic and retinols are rather basic. This is why their usual forms (certain derivatives of vitamin C derivatives are more stable, others less acidic, etc.) are not usually formulated in the same product. This is also why applying a product containing vitamin C and then another based on retinols will reduce the effectiveness of both cosmetics.
Combinations to avoid
Retinol + Vitamin C :
For the reasons given above, we strongly advise against using both in the same routine (i.e. at the same time). Choose vitamin C in the morning for its antioxidant protection, and retinol in the evening. In any case, we always recommend using bakuchiol, the plant-based alternative to retinol.
Retinol + AHA / BHA :
These two active ingredients are very powerful: they both refine the skin's surface layer. The risk of irritation is therefore increased tenfold.
Two exfoliants at the same time (with AHA/BHA or a scrub):
You risk over-exfoliating your skin, and that's the worst thing you can do: damage the skin barrier. Once damaged, the skin can develop micro-lesions (invisible to the naked eye) that sensitize it and create other problems for you. Your skin won't heal as quickly, it won't be as even, and pimples may appear... The combo not to do!
Combinations to look for
Niacinamide + Bakuchiol or AHA: the combo for skin with imperfections or those looking for a smoother, more even texture.
The niacinamide or vitamin B3, is an incredible 360° active ingredient. It provides antioxidant protectionIt provides antioxidant protection, illuminates the complexion and has soothing properties. Using a niacinamide-based product therefore reduces the potential irritation caused by AHAs or retinols (again, this is why we recommend bakuchiol).
That's why our imperfections serum serum combines lactic acid, an AHA, niacinamide and bakuchiol. Together, they provide a complete skin texture renewal action.
Vitamin B5 + Bakuchiol or AHA or Vitamin C: the combo for more comfortable skin and a radiant complexion
The vitamin B5in addition to its moisturizing and soothing properties, has been proven to aid skin healing. Coupled with bakuchiol, AHAs or vitamin C, it helps to reduce potential irritation. Bakuchiol, AHAs and vitamin C are radiance boosters. Choose bakuchiol if you're also looking for an anti-aging or anti-imperfection action. If you tend to mark easily and notice a lack of uniformity in your complexion, choose AHAs instead - either in a lotion, for example, or in a mask. And finally, if you're looking for anti-oxidant and anti-aging action, vitamin C will be your ally.
Our moisturizing cream, rich or fluid depending on your skin type, is enriched with vitamin B5 to support the cutaneous barrier and enable you to choose the complementary active ingredient of your choice without risking irritation.
Hyaluronic acid + Bakuchiol or AHA or Vitamin C: the combo for skin looking for a glow and plumped-up features
Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that retains water and helps moisturize both the superficial and deeper layers of your skin. It enhances the effects of most active ingredients, including AHAs, bakuchiol and vitamin C.
That's why we created the moisturizing boosterultra-concentrated in hyaluronic acid, so you can keep your skin moisturized, all day long.
