There is a degree of science to skin care applications. When layering ingredients, we often forget that different pH levels affect the potency of each active ingredient and how it affects the skin. Many users mistakenly believe that layered ingredients are due to unwanted side effects such as rashes, itching, and discomfort. However, these can be easily avoided if you know how to combine different ingredients in your daily life. You may be surprised to know that most skin care ingredients can be used in daily use. It’s just a matter of knowing their pH and when to apply them to the skin.
Which leads us to our question today: Can Niacinamide Be Used With Mandelic Acid? Let’s briefly review how these ingredients work and what benefits they can bring to your skin.
What is Mandelic Acid?
It is derived from bitter almonds, which belong to a group of chemical peels called alpha hydroxy acids (also known as AHAs).
Due to its larger molecular size, it’s gentle enough for all skin types, including those prone to redness and sensitivity.
The layer of dead skin cells on the surface of the skin is removed to reveal fresher new cells underneath.
Fights the signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles, the appearance of which will be visibly reduced in just weeks.
Helps fight clogged pores and blemishes. Mandelic Acid works to clear excess sebum, dirt, bacteria and other impurities from pores.
Mandelic acid can prevent hyperpigmentation such as melasma, dark spots, post-acne scars and other areas of uneven skin tone.
There are some side effects such as itching, swelling, redness, itching, etc. Therefore, you must seek the advice of your doctor or dermatologist before adding any new ingredients to your routine.
If you want to learn more about mandelic acid, check out our dedicated blog post.
What is Niacinamide?
Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, is derived from brewer’s yeast and grains.
Known for its moisturizing properties, it ensures moisture is locked in the skin. This helps the skin barrier to function properly and can protect itself from free radical stress.
Can be used effectively in combination with other ingredients, even chemical acids such as glycolic, lactic, and mandelic.
May help regulate sebum production, making niacinamide a beneficial ingredient for those with acne-prone and dry-prone skin types.
The appearance of enlarged pores is visibly reduced for an overall improved complexion.
Combats the signs of aging like fine lines, wrinkles and signs of dehydration on the skin’s surface.
Tightens the skin around the chin and neck to help improve skin tone.
Restores skin’s radiance and reduces the dull and lackluster appearance that is common to skin.
Learn more about niacinamide in Beauty Insider.
How should I use Niacinamide and Mandelic Acid?
There are a variety of ways to use mandelic acid and niacinamide together. Unlike other active ingredients, you can actually stack these ingredients together. However, they each contain a different pH and if they are mixed too quickly, the pH of the skin may change. This can cause redness, itching, flaking, and sometimes severe irritation. Here are some examples of how to use niacinamide and mandelic acid together.
Use these two ingredients in your daily life
As I suggested before, you can use both mandelic acid and niacinamide. Remember to wait about 10 minutes between uses to allow the active ingredients to absorb and rebalance the pH.
Apply mandelic acid followed by niacinamide
Start by using a cleanser or exfoliating toner that contains mandelic acid to remove dead skin cells and dirt from your skin. It then uses Niacinamide to keep the skin hydrated, which contributes to the proper function of the skin barrier and protects against free radicals such as pollution, central heating, cigarette smoke and other environmental aggressors.
Alternate them throughout the day
You can also use one ingredient in your morning routine and another in your evening routine. If you already have an established skincare line, this is an effective way to get the most out of all your skincare products.
There is a basic principle of skin care, that is, the order of use of skin care products is consistent. Start with the thinnest and end with the thickest. This allows you to determine which ingredient to apply to the skin first.
What not to mix with mandelic acid?
It is considered best not to mix mandelic acid with other acids such as glycolic, lactic, salicylic and retinol. This is because using too many exfoliating ingredients can lead to overstimulation of the skin, which can lead to redness, itching, peeling, severe dryness, and generalized facial discomfort.
If you want to use AHAs and mandelic acids, you can do so by alternating the dates of each active ingredient. For example, mandelic acid can be avoided when using retinol at night. When introducing new ingredients into your routine, you may want to perform a 24-hour patch test on the new formula before applying it to your face. To do a patch test, you first need to apply a small amount (approximately 10p) to the inside of your arm. Leave the product on overnight and use it on your face in the morning if there are no signs of irritation.
What not to mix with Niacinamide?
It is believed that vitamin C should be avoided when using niacinamide, as they both act as antioxidants and act on the skin in similar ways. This information is now considered somewhat outdated, and many product formulations contain stabilized forms of vitamin C, limiting concerns about combining these powerful substances.
There you can find more information on the use of niacinamide and mandelic acid. Don’t forget: If you have any questions, you can find one of our wellness experts on Instagram.