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The right combination of active ingredients can do wonders for your skin, but figuring out how to layer them can feel like navigating a maze. With countless products and recommendations available online, it's hard to know where to begin.
In this guide, we tackle how to layer actives in skincare, covering the best ingredient pairings and when and how to apply the right products.
What are skincare actives?
Skincare actives are key ingredients in products that target specific skin concerns such as blemishes, dryness or hyperpigmentation. Commonly used actives include hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, retinol, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) and vitamins like A, C and E.
Layering active ingredients in skincare can be a powerful technique, but it’s important to introduce them one at a time. Start slowly and observe how your skin reacts before combining multiple actives. If your skin becomes dry or irritated, pause the actives and focus on hydrating products to repair and restore your skin’s balance.
Tips for layering skincare actives
By following these best practices, you can ensure each product works optimally while avoiding irritation or product buildup.
• Start with the lightest consistency — Begin with the thinnest, water-like products such as toners or serums, and work your way up to thicker formulations like creams and oils. This ensures each layer is properly absorbed and prevents products from sitting on the skin’s
• Water before oil — Water-based products like serums and toners absorb more easily into the skin and should be applied first. Oil-based products such as face oils, creams and moisturisers, sealing in hydration and supporting the absorption of earlier layers.
• Wait between layers — Give each layer time to absorb completely into the skin before applying the next product. This may take a few minutes, but patience ensures each product works effectively.
• Avoid clashing ingredients — Some active ingredients may overwhelm the skin when used together. For instance, AHAs and BHAs are exfoliants that remove dead skin cells and increase cell turnover. Retinol also stimulates skin renewal, making the combined effect too harsh for many skin types. Together these ingredients can compromise the skin’s natural barrier, resulting in redness, flakiness and discomfort.
• Always perform a patch test — Before introducing a new product or combination of actives, apply a small amount to a discreet area, like behind your ear or on your inner arm. Wait 24 hours to check for discomfort or redness. This simple step ensures your skin tolerates the product before applying it to your face.
• Seal your routine with SPF — Complete your skincare routine with an SPF 50 sunscreen. Sunscreen needs to stay on the surface to effectively block harmful rays, so layering it last maintains its integrity and ensures optimal protection throughout the day.
How to combine skincare actives
Layering skincare actives might feel overwhelming, but when done right, it can amplify results. Here are some popular active ingredient combos that work synergistically to target multiple concerns.
• Retinol + niacinamide for anti-ageing effects
These two powerhouse ingredients complement each other without diminishing their individual effects. Topical treatment of niacinamide has been shown to help slow visible skin ageing and reduce hyperpigmentation, while retinol-based serums and creams help address fine lines, uneven texture, and signs of sun damage.
A 2016 study revealed that a retinol cream infused with niacinamide and other active ingredients helped improve skin clarity, tone and the appearance of wrinkles.
• Vitamin C + hyaluronic acid for a hydrating glow
Pollution, smoking and solar radiation can accelerate skin damage by causing oxidative stress. Vitamin C, one of the skin's most powerful antioxidants, neutralises this oxidative stress to revitalise the skin. Essential for collagen production, it supports skin firmness and reduces pigmentation.
On the other hand, hyaluronic acid is known to hydrate and rejuvenate the skin. By attracting and retaining moisture it helps plump the skin and restore a fresh dewy glow.
Pairing a vitamin C serum with a hyaluronic acid moisturiser can help boost cell rejuvenation and improve elasticity, leading to a firmer, more youthful complexion.
• Salicylic acid + niacinamide to remove impurities
Salicylic acid is a type of BHA that penetrates deep into the pores to remove buildup and dead skin cells. It helps refine uneven texture and visibly minimises blemishes.
On the other hand, niacinamide is a powerful hydrating ingredient that soothes the skin and revitalises a dull complexion. Products with these ingredients complement each other, leaving the skin smoother, clearer and more radiant.
Transform your skincare routine with Medik8
Achieving healthy-looking skin doesn’t need a complex 12-step routine. By properly combining skincare actives, you can simplify your regimen and still see real results.
At Medik8, we offer a range of formulas made with professional-grade active ingredients. Shop now and discover solutions for every skin concern.
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