In life, there are many things that work well on their own, like going for a run or binging back-to-back episodes of Love Is Blind.
But there are also plenty of things that work even better together, like popcorn and Maltesers, or a post-mix Coke on a dusty Sunday (trust me, it’s the goods).
In the world of skincare, this notion holds up, too.
Active ingredients offer a host of skin-sweetening benefits, from reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles to nourishing dehydrated skin and balancing oil production.
But when they’re layered together correctly (yep, there’s a right way to apply them) not only can they tackle multiple concerns in one, they can actually enhance the effectiveness of one another.
Below, I’ve rounded up five of the best skincare ingredient combinations to help you achieve your best skin yet, according to our resident dermal therapist, Yadira Cauchi.
1. Retinoids + Niacinamide.
When it comes to complementary ingredients, retinoids and niacinamide are right up there.
A quick refresher: Niacinamide is a type of vitamin B3 that works wonders by building proteins in the skin, boosting hydration and strengthening the skin barrier.
It’s best known for its anti-ageing and anti-inflammatory properties, while also being a potent antioxidant that helps inhibit the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for dark spots.
Now, enter retinol, a form of vitamin A. Like niacinamide, retinol is a superhero when it comes to the fight against ageing and hyperpigmentation.
Joanna takes us through all things retinol, sharing tips and product recommendations for beginners below.
