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The caveat to such potent ingredients?
Theydon’t play well together.
Liz Desousa for Byrdie
That doesn’t mean you have to settle for just one, though.
Meet the Experts
What Are AHAs/BHAs?
To prevent skin damage, use an AHA every other day, at maximum.
What Is Retinol?
As long as you are not pregnant or nursing, you could benefit from a retinoid.
Its the holy grail in skincare.
Byrdie Tip
Retinol should only be used at night as they are inactivated with UV exposure.
Otherwise, there’s a higher likelihood of irritation andskin barrier damage.
These ingredients should not be mixed and applied at the same time, Dr. Nazarian says.
Applying retinol and AHA/BHA in one evening is a recipe for irritated, dry skin.
That being said, most skin types won’t benefit from such a powerful combination.
“Pairing retinoids and AHAs/BHAs can result in dryness and skin irritation,” echoes Dr. Obioha.
And remember: While AHAs and BHAs may play well together, acids and retinols just don’t mix.
Instead, use AHAs on one night and use retinol, separately, the next.
A., Van Scott, E. J., & Yu, R. J.
Clinical uses of hydroxyacids.Cosmetic dermatology: products and procedures, 430-441.
Zasada M, Budzisz E.Retinoids: active molecules influencing skin structure formation in cosmetic and dermatological treatments.Postepy Dermatol Alergol.
InCosmeceutical Science in Clinical Practice(pp.
Berry, K., Hallock, K., & Lam, C. (2023).
Photoaging and topical rejuvenation.Clinics in Plastic Surgery,50(3), 381-390.
