For a powerful 3-serum routine, focus on core concerns: Vitamin C (AM for brightening/protection), Hyaluronic Acid (AM/PM for hydration), and Retinol (PM for anti-aging/texture), but use Retinol/Acids separately from Vitamin C and always with SPF; for beginners, start with HA, Vitamin C, then add Niacinamide or Retinol carefully.
For daytime, we suggest applying vitamin C serum first, followed by your hyaluronic acid serum, and finishing with your B5 serum and broad spectrum sunscreen. At night, continue to cleanse and tone as usual, follow with retinol, then hyaluronic acid and B5 serum.
While layering face serums, consider the concentration of each. You should avoid applying two face serums of higher concentration together to prevent adverse effects on the skin. For example, while using vitamin C serum, avoid layering or even pairing niacinamide with a concentration higher than 5%.
These two ingredients complement each other very well, especially since they're both water-based ingredients. That said, for the best results, we suggest using hyaluronic acid first, followed by niacinamide. The order here matters because, as a rule of thumb, you should always go in order of consistency.
We recommend using no more than three serum formulations in a single regimen for optimal layering and ingredient delivery. As a summary, we suggest applying water-based solutions first, followed by anhydrous or oil formulations, and finally cream or suspension formulations.
Here are the skincare ingredient combinations to avoid.
To layer vitamin C and hyaluronic acid serums, always apply vitamin C first to cleansed, dry skin. Be sure to leave time for your vitamin C to sink in, then follow up with your hyaluronic acid. A prime example of vitamin C and hyaluronic acid joining forces is Lancôme's Advanced Génifique.
You should generally avoid mixing niacinamide at the same time with AHAs/BHAs (like glycolic or salicylic acid) and certain forms of Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid), as their different pH levels can cause irritation, flushing, or make the ingredients less effective; instead, use them at separate times (morning/night) or alternate days to prevent a negative reaction. While some sources suggest avoiding Benzoyl Peroxide with niacinamide due to oxidation, many find niacinamide and salicylic acid effective when used at different times to unclog pores without irritation, notes Clinique and CeraVe Australia.
You generally don't need to avoid mixing hyaluronic acid with most ingredients, as it's hydrating and pairs well with actives; however, be cautious layering it with powerful exfoliants like AHAs, BHAs, or Benzoyl Peroxide, especially if your skin is sensitive, and don't mix Vitamin C with AHAs/BHAs or Benzoyl Peroxide in the same application due to potential irritation or deactivation, though hyaluronic acid itself is usually fine with them when used separately in your routine (e.g., HA in AM, acids at PM).
Niacinamide and vitamin C can be safely used together. But both can cause mild side effects like skin redness, burning, and itching. Using them together may increase the risk of skin irritation.
There's no single "No. 1" face serum, as the best choice depends on your skin concern (like aging, dullness, or dryness), but SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic (Vitamin C/Antioxidant) and Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair (Hyaluronic Acid/Peptide) are consistently top-rated overall by editors, while The Ordinary offers great budget options like their Lactic Acid for exfoliation or Hyaluronic Acid for hydration, and La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 is loved for dry skin, with many other top contenders from brands like Paula's Choice, Alpha-H, and Naturium, all focusing on ingredients like Vitamin C, Retinol, Hyaluronic Acid, and Niacinamide.
🌱𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐑𝐔𝐁 𝐯𝐬 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐏𝐀𝐓: Almost your entire skincare regimen — serums, moisturizers, oils and eye creams included — should be patted into the skin, since liquids, creams, lotions, oils and gel-based products absorb best with this technique.
Here are eight ways to avoid serum mistakes.
As dermatologists we agree that more is not always better and a basic skin care routine is as easy as a three-step procedure of cleansing, moisturizing and protecting.
Retinol and hyaluronic acid are like apples and oranges: Both ingredients are very good for you, yet they are very different. While retinol is the gold standard anti-ager proven to help firm skin and soften fine lines (among many other things), hyaluronic acid is a super-hydrator for dry skin.
The "best" night serum depends on your skin concern (e.g., fine lines, dullness, dryness), but top-rated options often include Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair for overall repair, SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic for brightening, and gentle retinol serums like Naturium or Elizabeth Arden Retinol + HPR for anti-aging, with The Ordinary and L'Oreal offering budget-friendly, effective choices for hydration and renewal. Key ingredients to look for are retinol (for cell turnover), hyaluronic acid (for hydration), peptides (for plumping), and niacinamide (for pores/tone).
Hyaluronic acid holds 1000 times its weight in water, which is great for retaining hydration. However, too much can cause it to pull moisture from deeper in the dermis into your epidermis, leaving the deeper layers of your skin dehydrated.
The "1 rule" in skincare often refers to the "1% line" on ingredient lists, meaning anything listed after it is used at 1% or less (like preservatives or fragrances). However, the most crucial skincare practice is daily sunscreen, while the best routine principle is applying products from thinnest to thickest consistency (like cleanser > serum > moisturizer > SPF) for proper absorption, with consistency and a simple, solid base being more important than complex products.
Have you heard of the 7 Skin Method? It's a Korean skincare technique that involves layering toner on your skin up to seven times to achieve a hydrated and glowing complexion. If you're looking for a way to improve your skin's texture and appearance, the 7 Skin Method might be just what you need!
While niacinamide is generally used to brighten and even out skin tone, some individuals may experience skin darkening due to irritation, allergic reactions, or interactions with other skincare products.
A general rule of thumb is to layer 2-3 serums. This ensures skin doesn't become overwhelmed and gives each formula the space to absorb properly. However – as mentioned above, all skin is unique. Some skin concerns could benefit from up to 5 serums, if heightened moisture, protection and firming for example is needed.
Vitamin C + Retinol
Only if you want skin irritation. Layering retinol and Vitamin C can lead to this unwanted side effect as well as redness or dry, itchy skin. Stay away from this combination, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Whether you're 20 or 70, it's wise to regularly use a serum that contains hyaluronic acid. As you do, you'll notice your skin develop a subtle glow and a plumper, more youthful appearance. This is anti-aging at its best. For optimal results, we recommend using vitamin C with hyaluronic acid.
How to Layer Your PM Skincare
Incorporating a hyaluronic acid serum into your skincare regimen is easy. This versatile ingredient can be used morning and night and works well with other formulations. As always, we recommend following the 3 core stages of a skincare regimen to layer your formulations.