I've been a beauty editor for many years now, but I do admit that I still get confused with mixing and matching products for my routine. There are certain actives when layered over each other do more harm than good. On the flip side, some ingredients bring out the best qualities of each other.
To make things easier for all of us, I create a simple guide that shows the best skincare ingredients that work better together. Hope this helps!
The Best Skincare Ingredients To Mix For Clear, Glowing Skin
1. Niacinamide + Vitamin C
Also known as The Brightening Duo
Niacinamide and vitamin C are two ingredients that are known to even out the skin tone. The good thing about boosting your brightening routine with niacinamide is that it helps strengthen your skin barrier and prevent acne.

White Radiance Niacinamide + Vitamin C Super Serum, P1499, OLAY, Shopee
2. AHA + BHA + Niacinamide
Also known as The Power Trio
Name a better trio, I'll wait. AHA, BHA, and niacinamide are amazing together. Both acids help exfoliate your skin and tackle pigmentation. AHA evens out the skin tone, and BHA purifies the pores. Niacinamide creates a soothing layer and strengthens your oil-moisture barrier. (Too much skincare jargon? These ingredients will give the glowiest skin of your life!)

AHA & BHA Daily Clean Toner, P800, MIZON, Go Bloom and Glow

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, P675, THE ORDINARY, Go Bloom and Glow
3. AHA + BHA + Hyaluronic Acid
Also known as The Glowy Trinity
I can't stop raving about acids! Ever since I've introduced them to my skincare routine, I rarely had massive breakouts. The downside of working with exfoliating ingredients like AHAs and BHAs is that you may overdo it. The best way to avoid this is to alternate AHAs and BHAs every night and to make sure that you apply hyaluronic acid product after.

Glow Potion AHA-BHA Toner, P395, SNAILWHITE, Watsons

Hyaluronic Acid Aqua Gel Cream, P849, ISNTREE, Seek Space
4. Retinol + Hyaluronic Acid
Also known as The Glow Boss
Want seriously glowing skin? Harness the skin-renewing properties of retinol and combine it with the hydrating abilities of hyaluronic acid. This duo works for normal to oily skin.

Bed Time Miracle: Age Miracle Ultimate Youth Essence 30g and Night Cream 50g (with Retinol-C), P1299, POND'S, Lazada
5. Retinol + Niacinamide
Also known as Speed of Bright
Niacinamide reduces the risk of irritation caused by retinol. Plus, it helps speed up the brightening process of your skin. Apply this before any retinol product to help protect your skin.

Miracle Repair Serum Niacinamide 4% 30ml, P499, LUXE ORGANICS, Watsons

Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream, P4550, MURAD, Rustan's
6. Retinol + Cica
Also known as High and Low
Retinol is a strong active ingredient that renews the skin surface, fades spots, and treats acne. Some may find the formula *too much* so it is advised that they gradually incorporate it into their routines. You can calm down your complexion with the help of cica, a soothing skincare ingredient.

Advanced Anti-Aging Age Spot Erasing Serum, P899, CELETEQUE, Watsons

Centella Blemish Cream, P1000, COSRX, Watsons
*This story originally appeared on Cosmo.ph. Minor edits have been made by the Preview.ph editors.
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