Ah, skincare—the delicate dance of serums, acids, and creams that promise to turn back time (or at least make your skin look like you've gotten 8 hours of sleep and a spa day). But as any seasoned beauty lover knows, not all skincare ingredients get along. Some are like Sauvignon Blanc and goats cheese (a perfect match), while others are more like serving Merlot with ice (just...no). So, let’s talk about what works, what doesn’t, and why your Vitamin C Serum might be giving your Retinol the silent treatment.
Retinol: The Drama Queen of Skincare
Retinol is the ultimate diva—powerful, effective, but very particular about who it hangs out with. Pairing it with Vitamin C, AHA, or BHA is a recipe for drama. Why? Because Exfoliating Acids and Vitamin C can destabilize retinol and irritate your skin. Think of it as wearing stilettos to a hiking trip — it’s too much stress for your skin barrier. Stick to layering retinol with gentle hydrators like Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide to keep the peace.
Pro Tip:
If you’re committed to both retinol and exfoliating acids, alternate nights to avoid a skin meltdown. Your skin will thank you.
Vitamin C: The High-Maintenance Friend
Vitamin C is a glow-getter, brightening your complexion and fighting free radicals like a pro. But it doesn’t play well with Retinol and AHA/BHA exfoliating acids. Retinol destabilizes Vitamin C, and because Vitamin C is already so acidic, pairing it with Exfoliating Acids can cause an acid overload and really irritate your skin.
Pro Tip:
Apply Vitamin C in the morning (hello, antioxidants!) and save your retinol for bedtime. Skincare is all about strategic scheduling. Use your Exfoliating Acids sparingly and skip the Vitamin C when you do!
Copper Peptide: The Sensitive Soul
Copper peptides are the overachievers of the skincare world, boosting collagen and healing skin like champs. Copper Peptides compliment the effects of Vitamin C and Retinol, but keep them away from Exfoliating Acids to ensure they’re as effective as possible.
Pro Tip:
When layering your peptides with Vitamin C, apply your Vitamin C first.
AHA & BHA: The Exfoliating Power Duo
AHAs (like glycolic acid) and BHAs (like salicylic acid) are your go-to exfoliators, sweeping away dead skin cells and revealing brighter skin. But don’t let them near Retinol, Vitamin C or Copper Peptides. Why? Too much exfoliation weakens your skin barrier, and acids can oxidize those precious peptides. Less is more, darling.
Pro Tip:
Use your Exfoliating Acids sparingly just 1 -2 times a week. On the days you use them use them in the morning and save your actives for night. Skincare is a marathon, not a sprint.
Niacinamide: The Switzerland of Skincare
Niacinamide is the neutral peacemaker — calming, hydrating, and generally unproblematic. But when paired with very high concentration Vitamin C at low pH levels, it can turn into a less effective duo. Modern formulations often solve this issue, but it’s something to keep in mind.
Pro Tip:
If you are layering niacinamide with Vitamin C, use Vitamin C first and wait until it’s absorbed before using your niacinimide. This lets you enjoy both benefits without any awkwardness.
Benzoyl Peroxide: The Acne Buster
Benzoyl peroxide is a lifesaver for acne-prone skin, but it doesn’t vibe with Retinol. Why? It oxidizes retinol, making it less effective. If you need both, alternate nights or use benzoyl peroxide as a spot treatment.
Pro Tip:
Always follow benzoyl peroxide with a hydrating moisturizer to prevent dryness and flaking.
Hyaluronic Acid: The Social Butterfly
Finally, the ingredient that gets along with everyon — Hyaluronic Acid. Whether your routine includes retinol, acids, or peptides, hyaluronic acid is the hydrating hug your skin needs. No drama, just moisture.
Pro Tip:
Apply hyaluronic acid to damp skin for maximum hydration. It’s like a tall glass of water for your face.
SPF: The Non-Negotiable
No matter how perfect your skincare cocktail is, none of it matters without SPF. Retinol, Vitamin C, AHA, and BHA make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so slather on that sunscreen every morning. Consider it your skincare insurance policy.
In Conclusion: Keep It Simple
Mixing the wrong ingredients can lead to irritation, wasted products, and a lot of frustration. Our products—like the Copper Peptide Serum and Blissful Bakuchiol—are designed to fit seamlessly into your routine without the guesswork. Because you deserve skincare that works as hard as you do.
Now, go pour yourself a glass of wine and toast to your newly optimized skincare routine. Cheers to glowing, happy skin — no drama required x
