Skincare Cocktailing 101: Everything You Need to Know About Mixing Skincare Ingredients
As anyone who’s ever been on #skincaretok or even stepped foot in a Sephora can attest, there are A LOT of skincare products out there. People are now becoming more and more interested in customizing their skincare routine to meet their specific needs, and this is also how skincare cocktailing has gained popularity in recent years.
If you’re new to the world of skincare cocktailing, don’t worry – we’re here to help! In this blog post, we’ll give you a crash course on everything you need to know about mixing skincare ingredients — from which ingredients work well together to which ones you should avoid mixing.
So, what exactly is skincare cocktailing?
Simply put, it’s the act of combining two or more skincare products to create a custom concoction that meets your specific needs. It can be mixing two serums together or mixing a hydrating serum with your favorite moisturizer for that extra hydration.
The possibilities are endless!
Skincare cocktailing tips
When it comes to skincare cocktailing, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
Get to know your skincare ingredients. It’s very important to know if the ingredients you’re layering on or mixing are compatible with each other. You don’t want to end up with a concoction that’s ineffective or even damaging to your skin!
Less is more. Remember that when you mix too many products, you’re not only boosting the effects, you’re also boosting the side effects those certain products may have. And if you’re not too careful, this can lead to a damaged skin barrier.
As much as possible, layer on your skincare products instead of literally mixing it in your hands. And if you do mix, mix products of the same consistency, especially in the case of serums so you don’t run the risk of altering the product and reducing its efficacy.
When layering products on your skin remember to start with the product that has the lightest consistency and work your way to the thickest.
Pay attention to how your skin reacts. Everyone’s skin is different; what may work for someone you know may not work for you. If you notice any adverse reactions (redness, irritation, etc.), discontinue use immediately and consult a skincare professional if necessary.
Which skincare ingredients go well together?
Hyaluronic acid + Vitamin A
Because of their ability to stimulate collagen growth, and speed up the cell turnover process, Vitamin A has become the holy grail for treating acne and reducing signs of aging, among other things. But of course, it doesn’t come without side effects which can include dryness, flaking, and redness.
That’s where Hyaluronic Acid comes in. Hyaluronic acid is considered one of the best humectants because of its ability to retain and seal in moisture, keeping your skin hydrated and supple.
When using these two ingredients together, make sure you apply the Hyaluronic Acid cream/serum first before applying your Vitamin A serum.
Vitamin A + Niacinamide
Vitamin A and Niacinamide are two of the most popular skincare ingredients out there, and for good reason. Vitamin A is a powerful anti-aging ingredient that helps to diminish fine lines and wrinkles, while niacinamide helps strengthen your skin’s barrier and reduce irritation. Simply put, Vitamin A and Niacinamide are incredible together as they both complement and strengthen the skincare benefits each ingredient provides.
Vitamin C + Vitamin E
Vitamin C is a well-known potent antioxidant that provides skin protection against environmental stressors and helps stimulate collagen production. However, it can also prove to be unstable on its own. Vitamin E, which is also a potent antioxidant, helps keep Vitamin C stable. When combined, they work synergistically to fight oxidative stress caused by UV exposure and other environmental stressors. It also doesn’t hurt that your skin will look more supple and radiant when you use these two skincare ingredients together.
Skincare ingredients you should NOT mix together
Vitamin A + AHA/BHA
Since Vitamin A and AHA/BHA are all chemical exfoliants that have the potential to cause skin irritation and sensitivity, combining them is overkill and can damage your skin’s protective barrier. If you want to use both, make sure you save the Vitamin A serum for your evening skincare routine as it can cause your skin to be more sensitive to the sun.
Vitamin A + Vitamin C
Both potent skincare ingredients that greatly benefits the skin, but when used together, actually causes each other to become ineffective. What you can do is include Vitamin C in your morning skincare routine since it protects from environmental stressors, and then use Vitamin A serum at night since it helps repair and rebuild your skin.
Sunscreen
You might think it a clever idea to mix your sunscreen with moisturizer or foundation, but please don’t. Mixing your sunscreen with moisturizer or foundation not only dilutes the SPF of your sunscreen, it can also alter its properties, making you more vulnerable to the harmful UV rays and photoaging.
What you can do is apply your moisturizer first, and then your sunscreen. Wait a few minutes before layering other products such as your makeup.
These are just some advice when it comes to skincare cocktailing, but we still recommend consulting an esthetician because they can no doubt give you better advice on which products to use together that will benefit your skin.
