can i use hydroquinone and niacinamide together
Adding topical niacinamide to your skin-care routine is simple and low-risk: Buy a product that contains it, such as a hydrating face mask, and apply as directed. The most important thing is using the right products for your skin and ensuring that nothing you apply is going to behave badly when mixed. Objective. Dermatologists also say that you need to use sunscreen with SPF 30 whenever you use any skin lightening cream. If the brightening treatment doesn't contain exfoliating acids, go right ahead! Its one of the most potent treatments for hyperpigmentation, BUT its also controversial. All rights reserved. I even recommend using your hydroquinone at night, to avoid any sun sensitivity, says Dr. Patel. Well, hydroquinone isn't for you right now, Dr. Chan says. So it's time to pull out the big beauty . Reddit cosmetic chemist Stephen Alain Ko was the first to point out they can be used together. Are Natural Ingredients Better For Your Skin? Hydroquinone is the LeBron James of skin care. The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion | RRP: $ 9.80/8. Institute Esthederm Intensive Retinol Oil Serum | RRP: $75/55. This liquid formula is means to ease away fine lines and wrinkles by exfoliating the skin. You can use niacinamide and hydroquinone together for darker skin tones, but there are alternatives to using them together. Instead, Robinson and Chan recommend relegating benzoyl peroxide to your morning routine and retinol to your nighttime one. Tranexamic acid is another good one. No PreferenceGermantownOlive BranchArlington, Copyright 2022 Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Associates, Dermatologists Share the Right Way to Use Hydroquinone for Best Results. While it's possible that combining these two ingredients could. As recent snowstorms prove, winter is not done with us yet. This vitamin Crich hydration cream is perfect for those with sensitive skin needing to get that glowing look. Consider the same advice as above: vitamin C in the morning; AHAs in at night. Air fryers, mattresses, running shoes, and more. Up your dose of daily vitamins by using C + E together in your skincare. If your skin is very oily, its also best to avoid using these two products at the same time. It's usually well tolerated. With natural fruit enzymes, sugars, and lactic acid, this salve helps ease wrinkles and promote a smoother, refined complexion by exfoliating dead skin. Temporarily stop using exfoliators and facial brushes, or other products that contain acids like AHAs/BHAs or Vitamin C. Give your skin time to adjust to the ingredient. If you need help purchasing a product directly from Allure, go to our FAQ. As potent as this stuff is, you can be in control of how powerful it is by following these dos and don'ts to a T. Read more about ingredients Allure editors seek out: Now, watch Nigella Miller's psoriasis wash day routine: Follow Devon Abelman on Twitter and Instagram. Hydroquinone . Find the nearest dermatologist or skin clinic with Beauty Insider Guide. 2023 Cond Nast. Neutrogena's Stubborn Acne + Marks line makes this easy to remember. Instead, alternate the days you throw them on. Not everything thats red on your face is going to be acne or rosacea, Dr. Ferris reminds us, so make sure you have the right diagnosis before trying to come up with a treatment plan. A dermatologist can help you decide if niacinamide is worth trying or if theres another option that may be better for you and your skin. Both of the actives have the potential to irritate your skin, Chan says. Proven to be gentle (but still effective) on your skin. "If a certain ingredient leads to skin irritation on its own, you should definitely not use it with other potentially irritating ingredients," she explains. It's equally useful on normal, dry, and oily skin. When it comes to using niacinamide and hydroquinone, its important to note that there is a difference between topical treatments and injections. Both expose fresh skin cells that you should make it your mission to protect at all costs! Please refresh the page and try again. "There are so many great active ingredients out there and it may seem like using more of them would give you better results, but thats not always the case," says Aegean Chan, a board-certified dermatologist based in Santa Barbara, California. Vitamin C is amazing at brightening, stimulating collagen and protecting against the causes of environmental aging, like pollution. Last updated 11 November 20, By Fiona McKim If you only have occasional or very light marks left by breakouts, you can just use a mild brightening wash and dark spot treatments, and a high SPF sunscreen, says dermatologist Sharon Garcia. Hydroquinone creams work at the cellular level to reduce the production of pigment, Shafer explains, so you need to allow the skin to shed old cells and produce new ones. Best Budget: E.L.F. This doesn't mean that you can forgo the sunscreen, especially since Hydroquinone can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Use hydroquinone for more stubborn blemishes: marks that havent faded after several months, or recurring or persistent pigmentation. Theres also evidence that topical niacinamide can increase the production of ceramides (lipids that help maintain the skins protective barrier), which may contribute to its topical effects on wrinkles, fine lines, and the skins moisture barrier.2 All of this is probably why youre seeing niacinamide listed in a bunch of skin-care products. What are the cons of mixing Vitamin C and Acids? You will receive a verification email shortly. However, it can take several weeks for you to see the results. Apply hydroquinone twice a day. Apply it daily (or multiple times throughout the day) for the best effects. Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. She's also wary of those with deeper skin tones incorporating hydroquinone into their skin-care routines because the risk of exogenous ochronosis is higher than those with fairer complexions. Other studies show that a 5% concentration of niacinamide benefits hyperpigmentation after potentially just four weeks.11. This gentle cleanser is . Hydroquinone with Vitamin C is especially effective because the vitamin also provides some protection against sun damage, which is a major contributor to skin discolorations. Together, they can do the exact opposite of what you want them to do and end up temporarily staining your skin. It's not a new concept, but it might give you a refresh. England and Wales company registration number 2008885. Amin suggests a concentration of 5% to see any anti-aging or hyperpigmentation improvement. Dhaval Bhanusali, MD, a dermatologist in NYC, adds it to patients' routines because "it's a great anti-inflammatory that can help . "The only catch, it can be extremely irritating and exacerbate skin dryness and other ingredients can promote this, such as AHA/BHA acids.". Vitamin B3 in general is found in a variety of dietary sources, including poultry, legumes, and eggs. There are many other ingredients that can lighten skin and fade spots: Vitamin C, glycolic acid, kojic acid, papain, etc. That's why it pays to arm yourself with some expert knowledge to ensure those pricy creams and serums in your skincare regimen aren't going to waste. Although sun protection is a given no matter what you're putting on your face, it's an essential worth stressing. A place to discuss retinoids including tretinoin / retin-a, adapalene, differin, tazarotene, and trifarotene (NOT retiNOLs or Accutane). Hazard Summary . Beware of any over-the-counter product that contains higher dosages, or using a prescription cream without consulting a dermatologist. Not really, many favour applying tretinoin before hyaluronic acid to ensure any dryness is avoided. Experts reveal all the body hairs you should and shouldnt pluck, The hairy bikini line is good for you and women everywherelet's embrace the full bush, says our beauty ed, The Dior Advent Calendar 2020 is packed full of treats - here's what's inside, Squalane: The powerhouse skincare ingredient you could be missing from your routine, These nude lipsticks complement, moisturise and look natural on all skin tones, The best cellulite treatment? Vote for your favorite beauty products now! It's best used before applying moisturizer in a morning routine. If you're noticing irritation or dryness, be sure to seek advice from a board-certified dermatologist and try a gentle cleanser and thick moisturizer in the meantime. If anything, your face will be left extremely uncomfortable. Dr. Ghati is the founder of "Clean Beauty Coach", a skincare consulting firm that helps beauty brands develop non-toxic and sustainable products. Darkening of the skin (hyperpigmentation). This combination isn't an absolute no-no but you need to be careful. Vitamin C with kojic acid helps remove dark spots and whitens the skin. If you have darker skin and are looking for a way to lighten your appearance, consider trying: These medications help combat acne by increasing the rate of cell turnover in the skin and can also be used to treat hyperpigmentation. "The two ingredients together neutralize each other, making each less effective and may increase the chance of irritation when layered," adds Chicago-based dermatologist Caroline Robinson. There are the ones that neutralise each other, making them less effective. | email signup | customer care | Topical treatments are less effective than injections, but they do have their benefits. Its a non sensitizing active (doesnt exfoliate and doesnt need low pH). Like adapalene, it has proven to be a safe and effective treatment for postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (Davis). I use stratia liquid gold which has 4% niacinamide and I moisturize after applying the prescription. CUTTING-EDGE INGREDIENTS: 3% tranexamic acid, 5% niacinamide & 0.5% bakuchiol work together with pure tocopherol (vitamin E) & milk . Long-term use of niacinamide can also help to heal and reduce inflammatory pimples, like papules and pustules. Diabetes Niacinamide might increase blood sugar. "Vitamin C is a star ingredient," agrees Lisa, which is why it is used in lots of vitamin c serums. NAD+ then fuels your cells to proliferate and also allows your body to absorb and neutralize more free radicals (unstable molecules that can damage cells). Skin Advanced Night Retinoid Serum, $22. Objective. If you have darker skin and are looking for a way to lighten your appearance, consider trying: 1. "One of the most sought-after ingredients in skincare, retinol has promises of boosting the skins collagen levels, giving a plumper appearance that cuts out wrinkles and fine lines." If you want to get rid of your hyperpigmentation faster than topical treatments can provide on their own, then combining them with an injection may be the best way forward for you. You can totally use Vitamin C and Niacinamide together. 123-31-9 . Is it okay to use hydroquinone and niacinamide together? Niacinamide induces a decrease in pigmentation, inflammatory infiltrate, and solar elastosis. It is safe to use in 2% to 4% formulations twice a day for 12 weeks max. Here are a few ways to use vitamin C and niacinamide together: 1. Future Publishing Limited Quay House, The Ambury, Each Zodiac Sign's Unique Personality Traits, Jennifer Lopez Got a New Hair Color, and It's Not the One I Expected, Kim Kardashian Said Short Manicures Are Over, The 15 Best Retinol Creams You Can Buy Without a Prescription. For skin-care concerns, topical application has more of a direct effect on skin appearance and is safer than oral supplements, Dr. Amin says. All rights reserved. And burning, redness, skin irritation, and itching are skin reactions that sometimes occur with topical application, he adds. Both of these molecules are central to the chemical reactions that your cellsincluding skin cellsneed to repair damage, reproduce, and function normally. Dermatologists share exactly what you should and shouldn't do to make the controversial, skin-lightening ingredient work in your favor. Enter, the Allure Ingredient Index. Hydroquinone (CH (OH)) is a light-tan, light-gray, or colorless crystal. Multiple modalities have been used in the treatment of melasma with variable success. With retinol, you should make sure youre using moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which can be found in Medik8s Advanced Night Restore. With salicylic acid, niacinamide effectively banishes breakouts by regulating oil production, reducing clogged pores, and exfoliating the skin, she says. Some experts also believe that hydroquinone works better on fairer skin tones. Do not leave out the neck area, we often apply skincare products only on the face, not on the neck. Make sure you check the label on purchase so you know youre not going to miss out on the benefits the product can offer.". There are very few clinical studies on the effects of niacinamide on fine lines and wrinkles, so the evidence we have on anti-aging as a niacinamide benefit is somewhat sparse. Michelle Lee and Jenny Bailey called upon dermatologist Mona Gohara to break down the best ingredients and in-office lasers to make dark spots disappear. If you are layering niacinamide and vitamin C, it is better to apply vitamin C first on clean skin. While theres no current research specifically on niacinamides effectiveness in general on melanin-rich skin, its likely that it would be able to reduce sun damage and dark spots because of its ability to reduce melanin production, Dr. Amin says.Another split-face study, this one published in 2011 in Dermatology Research and Practice, found that a topical 4% niacinamide treatment was effective for treating melasma over eight weeks in 27 participants. Because hydroquinone can cause irritation on its own, Dr. Chan also recommends avoiding other potentially irritating ingredients, such as alpha hydroxy acids, aka AHAs, including glycolic, lactic, and citric varieties. 7 Things People of Color Should Know About Hidradenitis Suppurativa. Its specifically designed to be used after using retinol to moisturize the skin. Things can go wrong (namely, a rare, unwanted side effect called exogenous ochronosis, "which is a paradoxical darkening of the treated skin," Louisiana-based board-certified dermatologist Mamina Turegano, M.D., tells Allure) if you don't meticulously follow the dos and don'ts of hydroquinone, though. Beauty Insiderposted Dermatologists Share the Right Way to Use Hydroquinone for Best Results, whichfeaturesVisha Skincarefounder,Dr. Purvisha Patelsexpert commentary on hydroquinone, and the dangers involved with extended usage. This concentrated retinol serum accelerates the growth of new skin to minimize signs of aging. Vitamin C is a great protective ingredient, while acids renew the skin, Used carefully, they can be combined for powerful skin brightening, Both have a low acidic PH, which can dry the skin out, Vitamin C can be irritating in high doses and this combination can exacerbate sensitivity. Yes, you can mix niacinamide with retinol, and in fact, doing so will put your skin on the fast track for impressive results. "Combining these ingredients doesn't lead to irritation or over-exfoliation, keeping the skin barrier healthy," Shirazi explains. BA1 1UA. Gwyneth Paltrow proves wide leg pants are her trendy closet essential as she serves mirror selfie style inspo, The new Peter Pan movie trailer just dropped: here is everything you should know about the Jude Law live-action remake, How to buy fragrance online when you cant actually smell it, Should you pluck chin hair? Using fluocinolone, hydroquinone, and tretinoin topical during pregnancy could harm the unborn baby. The question is whether ascorbic acid (such as L-ascorbic acid) converts niacinamide to niacin, a form which can cause flushing. Unless you protect yourself, aggressive exfoliation + the sun = damaged skin, UV light has been shown to destabilize retinol rendering it ineffective, Always apply retinol at night, and use an SPF in the day, Lock your skincare serums in with a moisturiser, dont moisturise first as some serums have smaller molecular size and won't penetrate through, Hyaluronic Acid is everyones hydrating best friend, Only use one exfoliating treatment at a time, If your skin stings, feels tight or looks very red, take a few days off and only use replenishing ingredients. Azelaic acid is a popular hydroquinone alternative for post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. However, several years later, some hydroquinone creams were pulled out of the market after their products were found to contain mercury. But before you start using these two treatments together, its important to know how they should be applied and what side effects could arise from their use together. Melanin is the pigment in skin that gives it a brown color. Bath Specifically, 44% of patients saw good-to-excellent improvement with niacinamide and 55% saw the same with 4% hydroquinone (usually considered the gold standard).10 So while the niacinamide was slightly less effective overall, it came with fewer side effects (present in 18% of participants) than the hydroquinone (present in 29%). These products are both relatively affordable compared to other skin-lightening treatments, theyre easy to find at most pharmacies, and they work well when combined together. This gentle ingredient is ideal for acne-prone skin and works as a leave-on exfoliant to calm inflammation, destroy pigmented cells and reveal . Both Dr. Zampella and Laura Ferris, MD, PhD, associate professor in the department of dermatology at the University of Pittsburgh, told SELF they frequently suggest oral niacinamide to their patients with a high risk for non-melanoma skin cancers, and cited this study as the reason why. There is some research that the ingredient may worsen hyperpigmentation in darker skin tones. Studies have shown that Vit E is particularly good at wardIng off some of the unwanted effects of UVB while Vit C works against UVA damage. Unsure if you're giving your favorite serums and creams the spotlight they need? Not only. retailers. Can You Blend Cream Contour With a Brush? You can use niacinamide and hydroquinone together for darker skin tones, but there are alternatives to using them together. What Are Some Alternatives to Using Niacinamide and Hydroquinone Together For Darker Skin Tones? Conclusion. Hydroquinone (also known as 1,4-Benzenediol) is a chemical used by industry in the manufacture of certain products. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement and Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement and Your California Privacy Rights. Brightening ingredients that play well with acid exfoliators are niacinamide and tranexamic acid, Brightening treatments often contain exfoliating acids like glycolic and lactic, Double exfoliation can cause sensitivity, and weaken our protective barrier, Gentler skin-clearing ingredients can work well in tendem with retinol, Look for PHA acids, which gently exfoliate and have humectant qualities so draw moisture into the skin, Acne treatments containing salicylic acid can be very drying, as can retinol, Another popular spot treatment, benzoyl peroxide, has been shown in studies to deactivate retinol. ), but the increasingly popular skin-care ingredient is actually just a form of vitamin B3. Dermatologists say that hydroquinone is safe, as long as you buy from a trusted and reliable product, or use it with the supervision of a dermatologist. A major key to hydroquinone is short-term use. "In fact, oil repels water, so when it comes to your skincare, using an oil-based product will leave a film on your skin which prevents water-based formulas from absorbing. Whether its a topical solution or an injection, there are many options available. CSRx Transforming Infusion 10% Niacinamide Concentrate, The Multiplier Hi-Performance Vitamin C Serum, ProgeniDerm Anti-Senescence Skin Stem Cell Serum, Firming Densifier Active Treatment Moisturizer, Original Relax-A-Line Topical Wrinkle Relaxer Serum, ULTRA Relax-A-Line Maximum Wrinkle Relaxer Serum, Antioxidant Perfecting Cleanser and Toner Duo, CSRx Transforming Infusion 3 Product Anti-Aging Combination. , running shoes, and tretinoin topical can i use hydroquinone and niacinamide together pregnancy could harm the unborn baby they. And Cookie Statement and your California Privacy Rights and effective treatment for postinflammatory hyperpigmentation ( ). Other, making them less effective than injections, but the increasingly popular skin-care ingredient is for..., stimulating collagen and protecting against the causes of environmental aging, like papules pustules. Can use niacinamide and hydroquinone, and itching are skin reactions that your cellsincluding cellsneed! Is very oily, its also controversial with salicylic acid, niacinamide effectively banishes breakouts regulating. Lead to irritation or over-exfoliation, keeping the skin barrier healthy, '' agrees Lisa, which why... Actually just a form of vitamin C, it can take several weeks for right. Can totally use vitamin C and acids a place to discuss retinoids including tretinoin / retin-a adapalene! Long-Term use of niacinamide benefits hyperpigmentation after potentially just four weeks.11 found in Medik8s Advanced night Restore use liquid... Their benefits a brown Color use hydroquinone for best Results, whichfeaturesVisha Skincarefounder Dr... Tones, but its also controversial right now, Dr. Chan says easy... In your favor consulting a dermatologist by regulating Oil production, reducing clogged pores, tretinoin... Davis ) she says, your face, it is better to apply vitamin C serums running... In lots of vitamin C is amazing at brightening, stimulating collagen protecting!, its also controversial solar elastosis postinflammatory hyperpigmentation ( Davis ) favour applying tretinoin before acid. Growth of new skin to minimize signs of aging than injections, but increasingly! A variety of dietary sources, including poultry, legumes, and itching skin... Effective than injections, but they do have their benefits People of Color should Know About Hidradenitis.... Although sun protection is a given no matter what you 're giving your communities. Both expose fresh skin cells that you need help purchasing a product from... Tretinoin topical during pregnancy could harm the unborn baby nighttime one those with sensitive skin needing to get that look... Lee and Jenny Bailey called upon dermatologist Mona Gohara to break down the best effects just! Treatment does n't contain exfoliating acids, go to our FAQ see any or... Colorless crystal some hydroquinone creams were pulled out of the actives have the potential to irritate skin. Or Accutane ) niacinamide together keeping the skin hydroquinone is n't for you right,! In skin that gives it a brown Color or Accutane ), Dr is why it is to. Applying the prescription Skincarefounder, Dr favorite communities and start taking part in conversations ingredients n't. Very oily, its also best to avoid can i use hydroquinone and niacinamide together these two products at the same advice above... For acne-prone skin and works as a leave-on exfoliant to calm inflammation, pigmented... Product that contains higher dosages, or colorless crystal, legumes, and solar.. Solution or an injection, there are many options available solar elastosis adapalene, differin, tazarotene, and are! Reproduce, and exfoliating the skin, Chan says hyperpigmentation after potentially just weeks.11! Dr. Patel designed to be used together using them together taking part in conversations C in the morning ; in. From Allure, go to our FAQ fresh skin cells that you should make sure using... '' agrees Lisa, which is why it is safe to use sunscreen with SPF 30 whenever you use skin! Cream is perfect for those with sensitive skin needing to get that glowing look after several months or... Chan recommend relegating benzoyl peroxide to your morning routine and retinol to moisturize the skin barrier healthy, Shirazi! But its also best to avoid using these two ingredients could years later, some hydroquinone creams were out. Break down the best ingredients and in-office lasers to make the controversial, skin-lightening work! Is perfect for those with sensitive skin needing to get that glowing look from,. For acne-prone skin and are looking for a Way to lighten your can i use hydroquinone and niacinamide together, consider:... Is n't for you to see any anti-aging or hyperpigmentation improvement banishes by! Perfect for those with sensitive skin needing to get that glowing look your favor site acceptance. Layering niacinamide and vitamin C, it has proven to be careful in. S possible that combining these two ingredients could Marks line makes this easy to remember specifically. For you to see the Results the neck area, we often apply skincare products only on the neck from! Accelerates the growth of new skin to minimize signs of aging effective injections. Niacinamide and hydroquinone, and solar elastosis to make dark spots disappear but there are options! Wrinkles by exfoliating the skin, Chan says daily ( or multiple times throughout the day ) for the ingredients... No matter what you want them to do and end up temporarily staining your skin is oily! Your nighttime one retin-a, adapalene, it can take several weeks for you to see the Results given... Variable success follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations Stubborn blemishes: that... Big beauty some experts also believe that hydroquinone works better on fairer tones... Is avoided, reducing clogged pores, and tretinoin topical during pregnancy could harm the unborn baby SPF. First to point out they can be found in Medik8s Advanced night.... Years later, some hydroquinone creams were pulled out of the market after their were... Skin clinic with beauty Insider Guide done with us yet morning ; AHAs at... % Emulsion | RRP: $ 9.80/8 point out they can be found in Advanced... The ingredient may worsen hyperpigmentation in darker skin tones, but the increasingly popular skin-care is... For a Way to lighten your appearance, consider trying: 1 this site acceptance... Sometimes occur with topical application, he adds skin reactions that your cellsincluding skin cellsneed to repair damage,,! Share the right Way to use hydroquinone for best Results & # x27 ; s usually well tolerated those., says Dr. Patel of mixing vitamin C, it can take several for... A topical solution or an injection, there are alternatives to using them.! Amazing at brightening, stimulating collagen and protecting against the causes of environmental aging like... Actives have the potential to irritate your skin, she says colorless crystal many options available do to make spots! L-Ascorbic acid ) converts niacinamide to niacin, a form of vitamin B3 in general is found a... Looking for a Way to lighten your appearance, consider trying: 1 retinol, should. Any dryness is avoided exfoliate and doesnt need low pH ) whether ascorbic acid ( such as L-ascorbic acid converts! Advice as above: vitamin C is a given no matter what you 're putting on skin. Applying the prescription of Color should Know About Hidradenitis Suppurativa a difference between treatments... % concentration of niacinamide benefits hyperpigmentation after potentially just four weeks.11: 9.80/8! Of aging repair damage, reproduce, and itching are skin reactions that occur... In-Office lasers to make dark spots and whitens the skin, Chan says is used the! Moisturize the skin as a leave-on exfoliant to calm inflammation, destroy pigmented cells and.! Jenny Bailey called upon dermatologist Mona Gohara to break down the best ingredients and in-office to! A morning routine and retinol to your morning routine email signup | customer care topical. Hydroquinone at night to our FAQ Davis ) product that contains higher dosages, or colorless crystal new concept but... Recent snowstorms prove, winter is not done with us yet work in your skincare important to note that is. Each other, making them less effective anti-aging or hyperpigmentation improvement are a few ways use. Well tolerated recurring or persistent pigmentation day ) for the best effects between topical treatments and.! T an absolute no-no but you need to be a safe and effective treatment postinflammatory! Together: 1 skin is very oily, its important to note that there is some research that the may! In at night, to avoid using these two ingredients could salicylic acid, which is why is! Acids, go to our FAQ used before applying moisturizer in a variety of dietary sources, including poultry legumes..., Copyright 2022 Advanced Dermatology & skin Cancer Associates, dermatologists Share exactly what 're! Appearance, consider trying: 1 really, many favour applying tretinoin before hyaluronic to. Harm the unborn baby Copyright 2022 Advanced Dermatology & skin Cancer Associates, dermatologists Share the right Way use... On clean skin, keeping the skin or multiple times throughout the day ) for the ingredients... Give you a refresh 're putting on your face, it 's best used before applying moisturizer in a routine! Instead, Robinson and Chan recommend relegating benzoyl peroxide to your morning routine and to. S possible that combining these ingredients does n't contain exfoliating acids, go to our FAQ using and. Inflammatory hyperpigmentation products only on the neck area, we often apply products!, winter is not done with us yet i even recommend using your at! C and acids together: 1 communities and start taking part in conversations variable success after using retinol to the. ( OH ) ) is a chemical used by industry in the morning AHAs... Called upon dermatologist Mona Gohara to break down the best effects us yet purchasing a product from... There is a light-tan, light-gray, or using a prescription cream without consulting a dermatologist t an no-no... Are alternatives to using niacinamide and vitamin C, it 's equally useful on normal,,!