The Compatibility of Niacinamide and Glycolic Acid (The Ordinary)
The way of skin care. The combination of ingredients is like a boat in the river, which is related to the effect and skin safety. Niacinamide and glycolic acid are both commonly used ingredients in the skin care industry, and The Ordinary brand is very popular for its affordable and efficient products. However, whether the two can be used together is a matter of concern to many skin care practitioners.

Niacinamide is a derivative of vitamin B3. It has a wide range of effects on the skin. One can inhibit the migration of melanin from melanocytes to keratinocytes, so it can brighten the complexion and reduce pigmentation. The second is to strengthen the barrier function of the skin, enhance the skin's water retention ability, and make the skin appear hydrated. In addition, niacinamide also has the effect of regulating the secretion of sebaceous glands, which can improve the condition of oily skin and make the skin refreshing.

Glycolic acid belongs to the category of fruit acids and is an alpha-hydroxy acid. Its molecules are small and can easily penetrate into the deep layers of the skin. The main effect of glycolic acid is to loosen the connection between keratinocytes, promote the renewal of the stratum corneum, and make the old waste keratin on the surface of the skin shed, thereby making the skin smoother and more delicate. And it can stimulate the production of collagen in the dermis, enhance the elasticity of the skin, and reduce the generation of wrinkles.

As for the compatibility of nicotinamide and glycolic acid (The Ordinary). Theoretically, the combination of the two may pose a latent risk. The chemical properties of nicotinamide are relatively stable, but under a specific pH environment, it may change. Glycolic acid is acidic and will reduce the pH value of skin care products. When the two are mixed, if the pH value drops to a specific range, nicotinamide may hydrolyze into niacin, which may irritate the skin, causing redness, tingling and other unpleasant conditions.

However, there are also many user feedback. When used in moderation and following the correct steps, there is no adverse reaction when used together. If you want to try the combination of the two, perform a local skin test first. Take a small amount of products containing nicotinamide and glycolic acid, apply it to sensitive areas of the skin such as behind the ear or inside the arm, and observe for 24 to 48 hours. If there are no symptoms such as redness, swelling, itching, etc., it can be regarded as the skin's tolerance to this combination.

When using, pay attention to the order of use. You can use milder products first, such as nicotinamide products, and then use glycolic acid products after they are fully absorbed. And the frequency of use should not be too high. It can be 1 to 2 times a week at the beginning. After the skin adapts, increase the frequency as appropriate.

In short, although nicotinamide and glycolic acid (The Ordinary) have excellent skin care effects, their compatibility needs to be treated with caution by users. According to your own skin condition, follow the correct use method to achieve the ideal skin care effect and keep your skin healthy.