When it comes to skin care, there are certain combinations of ingredients that should be avoided.
While certain ingredients can be beneficial when used together, others can be irritating or even dangerous when mixed. Here are six skin care ingredient combinations that should not be mixed:
1. Retinoid or Retinol and Alpha Hydroxy Acid: Retinoids and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are both powerful exfoliants, and using them together can be too harsh for the skin. AHAs can increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun, and when combined with retinoids, this can lead to redness, burning, and irritation.
2. Retinoid or Retinol and Benzoyl Peroxide: Retinoids and benzoyl peroxide can both be drying and irritating to the skin. When used together, they can cause redness, flaking, and burning.
3. Retinoid or Retinol and Vitamin C: Vitamin C and retinoids can both be beneficial for the skin, but they should not be used together. Vitamin C can make retinoids less effective, and can also cause redness and irritation.
4. Retinoid or Retinol and Salicylic Acid: Salicylic acid and retinoids can both be drying and irritating to the skin. When used together, they can cause redness, flaking, and burning.
5. Soap-Based Cleanser and Vitamin C: Soap-based cleansers can strip the skin of its natural oils, which can make it more vulnerable to irritation. When combined with vitamin C, this can lead to redness, burning, and irritation.
6. Two Products With the Same Actives: Using two products with the same active ingredients can be too harsh for the skin. This can lead to redness, burning, and irritation.
It is important to be aware of these combinations and to avoid them when using skin care products. If you have any questions or concerns about your skin care routine, it is best to consult a dermatologist.