Can you use glycolic acid with niacinamide?

Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane. It is colourless and odourless, and effectively penetrates skin due to its small molecular size.

This AHA offers multiple benefits that address common skin concerns:

• It removes the outermost layer of dead skin cells,

• It helps smooth rough skin texture,

• It reduces the appearance of fine lines,

• It helps clear congested pores,

• It fades dark spots and areas of hyperpigmentation.

Regular use reveals fresher, more radiant skin underneath the surface.

Unlike physical scrubs that can cause micro-tears, glycolic acid works through a chemical process. It dissolves the cement-like substance holding old skin cells together, allowing them to shed naturally.

This exfoliating action stimulates cell turnover, encouraging fresh cells to reach the surface faster. The result? A complexion that appears more luminous and even, with improved ability to absorb subsequent skincare products.

This vitamin benefits extend across multiple skin concerns:

• Strengthens the skin barrier function,

• Reduces enlarged pores,

• Regulates sebum production,

• Calms inflammation and redness,

• Protects against environmental damage,

• Improves uneven skin pigmentation.

These advantages make nicotinamide a valuable addition to most skincare routines.

Its versatility addresses both preventative and corrective concerns simultaneously.

The key to combining glycolic acid and nicotinamide lies in understanding how to layer these ingredients for maximum benefit without irritation.

Where glycolic acid creates change through controlled disruption of skin's surface, vitamin B3 rebuilds and reinforces what remains. This balanced approach ensures the skin never becomes compromised during its renewal process.

The acid's exfoliating action creates optimal conditions for vitamin B3 to penetrate more deeply, enhancing its effectiveness beyond what either ingredient could achieve alone.

Sequencing matters when using these active ingredients together.

Glycolic acid works best at a lower pH (typically 3.0-4.0), while vitamin B3 functions optimally at a neutral pH closer to your skin's natural level. Applying nicotinamide after glycolic acid allows each ingredient to work at its ideal pH level.

The exfoliating action of glycolic acid creates a clean canvas, enabling better penetration of nicotinamide's beneficial properties. This strategic ordering also helps vitamin B3 counteract any potential irritation from the acid exfoliation, creating a balanced approach to skin transformation.

Using both ingredients together requires thoughtful application to maximise benefits while minimising potential irritation.

The frequency depends on product concentration and your skin's tolerance. High-concentration treatments like the Vinoperfect face peel mask should be limited to once or twice weekly, even for experienced users.

Daily-formulated glycolic products such as essences and night creams can be used regularly once your skin has acclimated. Those with sensitive skin should start with just once-weekly applications, then gradually increase based on your skin's response.

Vitamin B3 begins to improve skin barrier function within days, but visible changes to skin concerns require patience. For hydration and reduced inflammation, expect noticeable improvements within 2-4 weeks of consistent use.

Significant changes to pigmentation issues typically appear after 4-8 weeks of regular application. Pore-refining effects generally become apparent within 8-12 weeks.

For optimal results, consistent daily application is more important than concentration—a moderate 5% nicotinamide formula used regularly outperforms higher concentrations used sporadically.

Caudalie's Vinoperfect range offers a complete solution for those looking to brighten skin and address uneven pigmentation with plant-basedso ingredients.

This lightweight Glycolic Acid Essence prepares your routine, using glycolic acid to gently exfoliate and enhance absorption of skincare products.

White peony extract boosts radiance and helps create a more even complexion, addressing dullness at its source. The formula contains organic grape water with soothing and hydrating properties, balancing the exfoliating action of glycolic acid.

The Dark Spot Serum for Radiance delivers concentrated action against all types of dark spots and uneven pigmentation.

Olive squalane extracted from sustainably produced olive oil moisturises and soothes the skin without leaving a greasy residue. Viniferine works at the heart of this formula to correct dark spots with remarkable efficiency, targeting existing pigmentation while preventing new spots from forming.

This Eye Cream for Dark Circles combines Viniferine with vitamin B3 to target the delicate under-eye area.

Viniferine, Caudalie's patented ingredient derived from vine sap, provides dark spot correction 62 times more effective than vitamin C. Natural-origin caffeine reduces puffiness and dark circles through its antioxidant properties, creating a more refreshed appearance.

This Instant Brightening Moisturizer delivers hydration while continuing the brightening action with its unique combination of Viniferine and nicotinamide.

The lightweight texture absorbs quickly, making it perfect for daytime use under makeup or alone. Regular use helps achieve skin tone evening effects with a formula suitable for all skin types.

This Anti Dark Spot Night Cream works while you sleep to accelerate cell renewal through a combination of papaya enzyme, Viniferine, and glycolic acid.

The papaya enzyme gently exfoliates dead skin cells, enhancing the penetration of active ingredients. Glycolic acid supports the formula by promoting cell turnover, helping to remove pigmentation and fade dark spots while you rest.