How to optimize results by creating skincare cocktails? A quick guide on what to mix and not to mix!
by Grace Kijjaroenvisal #skininfluencer
Disclaimer: as a KOC* and a skincare enthusiast, I must disclose I am not a certified esthetician or a board-certified dermatologist. Skincare and beauty is my biggest passion, and I continue to read and research every day to obtain more knowledge from actual dermatologists, chemists, and doctors. There are new research and evidence that are conducted frequently, along with numerous skincare myths debunked by scientists; with that in mind, I discover new facts every day, and like skincare, recognizing actual science is a journey, not a race. *KOC = key opinionated consumer
Now that you’ve grasped a little more understanding of skincare ingredients essential, and hopefully have incorporated them into your daily routine. The skincare ingredient staples of Vitamin C, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and retinol may be the focus of what I last spoke about; but, there are also ways to elevate its benefits.
Before we dive in, a quick reminder for everyone that with any new skincare products, you must patch test at the back of your ears before applying it on your face if this option is possible. If the pandemic prohibits you from testing products in person, I recommend ordering a mini-size first to ensure that it works well with your skin. With some of the skincare cocktails and pairings that exist, the big question is, “can you pair some ingredients together?” The short answer is yes, but it depends on your skin tolerance, your skin type, and the products you are using. You have to become your own scientist and formulate a bit of an experiment to see whether the skincare cocktail would suit you or not.
Vitamin C: there’s a couple of pairings with this antioxidant. First, pairing your Vitamin C with glycolic acid (AHA) will ultimately give you an ultra brightening effect. According to Murad, glycolic acid supercharges Vitamin C’s benefits by lifting away dulling surface cells. It clears the way for enhanced Vitamin C delivery and accelerates cell renewal essential to smooth and glowing skin. Although this AHA is less likely to irritate, remember to always patch test no matter what! I would create this skincare cocktail after I have built skin tolerance with daily use of Vitamin C in the morning and chemical exfoliations at night. Customize this cocktail for your skin by choosing the right type of acid.
Second, my favorite skincare cocktail with Vitamin C would be none other than your daily facial SPF (another skincare staple that should be in everyone’s routine); it enhances UV protection and protects the skin from photodamage.
Third, pair your Vitamin C with peptides to boost collagen; another pairing with the same benefits is Vitamin C and Vitamin E.
Niacinamide: since this ingredient is such a team player in the skincare world, there are a few pairings you can try out. First, pair your niacinamide with salicylic acid for an acne-fighting cocktail. This BHA will help the skin shed dead skin cells from the top layer and decreases redness and swelling (inflammation). It diminishes the number of pimples that form and speeds healing. You can customize this for your skin by opting for an AHA or a PHA.
Second, pairing your niacinamide with retinol will increase cell turnover; this is my most used skincare cocktail as it helps with redness, acne, and age-defying.
Third, pairing your niacinamide with peptides will be the key to regeneration; peptides boost collagen and elastin, and when paired together, you can achieve anti-aging and barrier repair. It could be an effective pairing for anyone with skin thinning or damaged skin barrier from over-exfoliation.
Hyaluronic acid: as one of the most popular ingredients, pairing your hyaluronic acid with ceramides will hydrate and moisturize your skin; this repairs the skin’s natural lipid barrier and is a lifesaver.
Retinol: the holy grail ingredient of anti-aging, retinol is great for layering. You can pair it with niacinamide (as mentioned above), and peptides! A lot of the skincare community will recommend not to mix retinol with any chemical exfoliators or Vitamin C but bear in mind that this entirely depends on you. Pairing your retinol with AHAs can be a glow combination because it’s going to turn dull, texturized, and uneven skin to bright and smooth skin. Pro tip: find a product that contains both ingredients to avoid irritation.
Second, pairing your retinol with a peptide is the ultimate anti-aging combination; retinol builds collagen and improves the penetration of peptides, which can improve skin firmness.
Again, it is crucial to take everything you consume with a grain of salt; not every ingredient will be your best friend, nor every single product. At times, it’s a matter of formulation or the dosage of some ingredients within a product. Just because a product didn’t improve your skin or unfortunately made its condition even worst doesn’t mean that another product with the same key ingredient won’t work. I encourage you to have the patience to explore different brands and products available in your market through trial and error. Remember, these are skin pairings you can choose to try or not; layering skincare is personal and intuitive because there is no right or wrong. With any pairings, there are benefits and risks, which is your choice to try or not.
About Grace Kijjaroenvisal aka graceactually
Born in Bangkok, Thailand, and raised in Brussels, Belgium, Grace Kijjaroenvisal is a freelance creative branding consultant in the business of fashion, beauty, media, and entertainment. She is also in the artistic field of beauty as a makeup artist when she’s behind the scenes. Having left the corporate world, Grace excels in a multifaceted environment, constantly engaging her active mind and pursuing her passions.
