For optimal results, layering your skincare in a certain order will ensure the best absorption of ingredients. It is generally agreed that a skincare routine starts with a cleanser, followed by a toner, serum, moisturizer, then lastly sunscreen. But with so many ingredients and products, how should you know what products effectively work together and which ones are counterproductive? When multiple strong ingredients are layered, it can cause skin sensitivity and the breakdown of our skin barrier. Here, we review a few common ingredients that are less effective when layered together and is recommended to use at separate times.
Ingredients to avoid layering together
Retinol and Vitamin C
Retinol and vitamin C are two powerhouse active ingredients that have amazing skin-boosting properties but can lead to irritation when layered together. This doesn’t mean that the you can’t include both in your regime though! Apply vitamin C underneath your broad-spectrum SPF to protect the skin from free radicals, whole the SPR shield the skin from UV rays. At night, use retinol to support the skin’s natural cell repair process.
Retinol and AHAs & BHAs
Retinol is a hero ingredient that boosts skin cell turnover, boosts collagen, and combats free radical activity to prevent cellular damage. When paired with exfoliating acids like AHAs and BHAs, the skin can become uncomfortably sensitive to readiness and dehydration. Alternate the evenings of each product to prevent irritation and reap the full benefits.
Vitamin C and AHAs & BHAs
Pairing exfoliating acids with Vitamin C reduces the effectiveness of vitamin C, an ingredient that is easily destabilized by layering an AHAs or BHAs product. Instead of applying these acids on top of Vitamin C, stick to night application to present UV damage, and wear Vitamin C in the morning with a sunscreen. Do not use a BHA or AHA on the same night of using retinol.
MAKARI Recommendations:
Retinol: Eye cream
Vitamin C: Extreme Argan & Carrot Oil Tone Boosting Cream
AHA : Glycolic & Rice Water Toner
