Can You Use Niacinamide And Retinol Together? – Benefits & Side Effects

Niacinamide and retinol are great skincare ingredients, offering numerous benefits and respite from various skin-related concerns. If you are using one or both of these, it is only natural to wonder if combining them would be a safe and effective option. We do know that some skincare ingredients do not pair well, so we are raising questions about whether this duo can be. Therefore, this article will explore retinol and niacinamide and their benefits, side effects, and usage. We will also discuss whether using niacinamide and retinol together in your skincare routine is a smart move or not.

What Is Niacinamide?

Niacinamide, or nicotinamide, is a water-soluble version [1] of vitamin B3. It is one of the eight essential B vitamins and is vital in maintaining overall health. In your body, niacinamide aids in DNA repair and inflammation control. It also boosts cellular energy, enabling cells to perform vital chemical functions effectively. It is also super effective in promoting skin health and offers several benefits to give you flawless, glowing skin.

Benefits Of Niacinamide

Niacinamide offers many benefits to your skin [2]  over consistent use.

• It helps maintain moisture in your skin and keeps it hydrated.
• Niacinamide replenishes keratin and ceramide levels in the skin, improving the skin barrier and protecting it from the harmful effects of free radicals.
• Its anti-inflammatory properties reduce inflammation and redness caused by rosacea, eczema, acne, and other skin conditions.
• It keeps your skin smooth and moisturised and naturally reduces the pore size.
• Niacinamide also controls oil production by sebaceous glands. It, therefore, helps reduce acne and pimples.
• It helps to rebuild sun-damaged skin and offers protection from UV damage, environmental stressors and pollution.

What Is Retinol?

Retinol is a ready-to-use and over-the-counter form of retinoids. Derived from vitamin A, retinoids are vital nutrients the body requires to improve eyesight, immunity, and cellular communication. [3] Retinol also plays a significant role in skin care and treats concerns like acne, hyperpigmentation, and ageing.

Benefits Of Retinol

Retinol has many benefits for your skin, backed by years of in-depth research: [4]

• Its regular use helps reduce wrinkles, fine lines and early signs of skin ageing.
• Retinol lends you a much even toned and clearer skin.
• It is an ingredient known for helping reduce hyperpigmentation, dark spots, sun spots, and patchiness.
• Regular use of retinol in your skincare regime helps your skin become more firm, supple, and radiant.

Can You Use Niacinamide And Retinol Together?

Yes, it is absolutely safe to use niacinamide and retinol together. [5] Both ingredients complement each other and synergise to boost overall skin health. When combined, the anti-inflammatory properties of niacinamide balance the irritating properties of retinol to lend you the best benefits. They help you get smoother, younger, blemish-free, brighter skin with an even tone. Here is a pro tip. Always apply niacinamide before retinol for better results.

Benefits Of Using Niacinamide And Retinol Together

Although niacinamide and retinol offer several skin-friendly benefits, the combination is super effective in boosting skin health. Here are some ways it works:

• Niacinamide prepares the skin for retinol by making it calmer and less reactive through a strengthened skin barrier. As a result, retinol does not irritate the skin when applied.
• Using retinol after or with niacinamide boosts its ability to improve skin texture. This is because niacinamide helps produce ceramides, keratin and fatty cells in the skin and lays the groundwork for retinol.
• Both retinol and niacinamide reduce the pore size, thus preventing clogging and acne formation.
• They both work uniquely to lend antioxidant benefits to the skin. They protect it from the harm caused by environmental pollutants and brighten dull, uneven-toned skin.

What Are The Side Effects Of Using Niacinamide And Retinol Together?

The combination of Niacinamide and retinol is generally safe for most skin types. However, a rare side effect that may develop from retinol sensitivity is skin irritation. Your skin’s reactivity usually stems from factors such as your skin condition, other ingredients used in the combination, and the concentration of each ingredient.

Who Should Use Niacinamide With Retinol?

The combination of niacinamide and retinol together is most suitable for people above the age of 25. The following people can try using niacinamide with retinol:

• Those looking to boost their skin health and fight ageing concerns.
• It benefits those with uneven skin tone and texture, looking to smoothen and brighten their skin.
• People suffering from hyperpigmentation, dark spots, age spots, sun spots and melasma.
• People suffering from acne, rosacea, and eczema.
• This combination is especially beneficial for those with mature, oily, or acne-prone skin.

Who Should Avoid Niacinamide With Retinol?

People with very sensitive skin that gets easily irritated should avoid using niacinamide and retinol together. You can also avoid this combination if you are allergic to either niacinamide or retinol. Also, those with compromised skin barrier must stay away from this combination, as it may lead to skin irritation, inflammation, and redness. It is best to consult your dermatologist for advice based on your skin type and condition.

How To Use Niacinamide And Retinol Together?

To use retinol and niacinamide together, you first need to clean your face with a gentle cleanser and pat it dry. Complete your regime of exfoliating and toning the skin. Then, either use a single product combining the goodness of both ingredients or two separate products and layer them up.

Always start layering with the thinner product first, followed by a thicker application. For better hydration, follow up the process with a moisturiser.

How Often Can Niacinamide And Retinol Be Used Together?

You can use retinol and niacinamide together at least once or twice a day, depending on your skin type and concerns. Your usage will also depend upon the strength of the products you use. If you use high-concentration products containing retinol and niacinamide, a once-a-day application should be enough to avoid skin sensitivity and side effects.

Application Tips For Best Results

Here are some application tips to ensure you get the best results from using retinol and niacinamide together:

• Follow the correct order when applying these products. Start with niacinamide and then apply retinol to maximise effectiveness.
• Apply niacinamide with sunscreen during the day, as retinol increases skin sensitivity to the sun.
• Introduce these products into your regime gradually. Start by using niacinamide and retinol a few times a week.
• Gradually increase the usage as your skin adjusts to these products.
• Stick to these products consistently and follow these guidelines for glowing, youthful skin.

How Long Does It Take To See Results From Using Niacinamide And Retinol?

Results from using niacinamide and retinol together can vary depending on factors such as individual skin types and concerns. Niacinamide usually shows results within 6-8 weeks. [6] However, the best benefits start showing only after 12 weeks.

Retinol takes longer to show results. Fine lines and wrinkles improve significantly between 8 and 12 weeks. Some studies indicate that noticeable changes happen only in six months or more.

NOTE: When combined, niacinamide and retinol can enhance each other’s effects, leading to better results.

Frequently Asked Questions On Niacinamide And Retinol

Q1. Is It Safe To Use Niacinamide And Retinol Together?

A1. Yes, it is safe to use Niacinamide and Retinol together. Combining them can boost their efficacy, making them an ideal pair for your skincare routine.

Q2. What Goes First, Retinol Or Niacinamide?

A2. It is best to use niacinamide first, followed by retinol, to ensure your skin gets ample protection. [7]

Q3. How Does Niacinamide And Retinol Work On The Skin?

A3. Niacinamide reduces inflammation and improves texture, while Retinol stimulates collagen production and cell turnover for smoother, youthful skin.

Q4. How To Add The Combination Of Retinol And Niacinamide To Your Skincare Routine? 

A4. To add niacinamide and retinol together to your skincare routine, start with a gentle cleanser, followed by a toner if you use one. Apply Niacinamide first and let it fully absorb into the skin. After a few minutes, apply Retinol. You can finish with a moisturiser to ensure hydration and protect the skin barrier.

Q5. What Not To Mix With Niacinamide?

A5. Mixing Niacinamide with exfoliating acids like AHAs or BHAs can sometimes irritate the skin, so it is best to use them at different times.

Q6. What Not To Use With Retinol?

A6. Never use Vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs with retinol. These combinations can cause excessive dryness and irritation. Vitamin C and retinol can destabilise each other, so avoid them.

Q7. What Goes First, Retinol Or Niacinamide Or Hyaluronic Acid?

A7. When layering, always start with Niacinamide after cleansing, then Retinol, followed by Hyaluronic Acid. This order helps enhance the benefits of each ingredient while reducing side effects.

Q8. Can I Use Niacinamide In The Morning And Retinol At Night?

A8. Yes, using Niacinamide in the morning and Retinol at night is an effective way to include both ingredients into your skincare routine. Niacinamide is stable and works well during the day, while Retinol is best at night to avoid sun sensitivity.

Q9. Which Skin Type Should Not Use Niacinamide With Retinol?

A9. Those with highly sensitive or compromised skin should be careful when using Niacinamide and Retinol together. Consult your dermatologist for the right approach.

Q10. What Are The Main Differences Between Niacinamide And Retinol?

A10. The main differences between niacinamide and retinol lie in their functions and effects. Niacinamide is soothing and hydrating. It helps improve skin texture and tone while reducing inflammation. Retinol, on the other hand, offers anti-ageing benefits and promotes cell turnover. It also reduces wrinkles and boosts collagen production in your skin.

Takeaway

Using niacinamide and retinol in your skincare regime is an excellent way to boost your skin health, lending it a bright and healthy glow. You can easily use retinol and niacinamide together after consultation with your dermatologist and in the correct manner. Ensure you use the best quality products on your skin, and do not rush the process. Introduce these ingredients gradually and regularly to avoid side effects. If you have any concerns about the use, efficacy and safety of these products, make sure to 📞speak to your dermatologist for best results.