Skincare ingredient compatibility: what can and can't be combined

1. Retinol

❌ Not compatible with acids (AHA/BHA/PHA) — it's true: both components are irritating and can cause peeling and burning.

⚠️ With vitamin C — you really should be careful: both are active, but can be used at different times (vitamin C — in the morning, retinol — in the evening).

✅ With niacinamide and peptides — excellent: niacinamide softens the effects of retinol and strengthens the barrier, peptides help skin regeneration.

💜 2. Niacinamide

✅ Universal component , compatible with almost everything.

⚠️ With acids — possible, but be careful not to cause irritation (better to use alternately).

✅ With vitamin C — previously thought to be incompatible, but modern formulas are compatible (the main thing is that the pH is stable).

🍊 3. Vitamin C

⚠️ With niacinamide — now allowed (previously considered a mistake, but new formulas are permanent).

❌ Acids and retinol — not together! Better vitamin C in the morning, retinol in the evening.

✅ With peptides — possible if the skin is not sensitive.

🧬 4. Peptides

✅ Compatible with most active ingredients — soft, soothing, and helps skin recover.

⚠️ With acids and strong vitamin C — the effect may be weakened, but it is not dangerous.

🍋 5. Acids

❌ Not suitable for combination with retinol or strong vitamin C.

⚠️ Possible with niacinamide , but not in one application.

✅ Perfectly prepares the skin for other active ingredients (if used on different days).