Shirazi also suggests niacinamide as a substitution for both salicylic acid and retinol because it has anti-inflammatory properties to help calm skin. Fiona joined woman&home as Assistant Beauty Editor in 2013 under industry legend Jo GB, who taught her everything she needed to know (learn about ingredients and employ extreme cynicism). Hydroquinone is available over the counter and with a prescription. Both are protective antioxidants so work to limit UV damage but work particularly well together as they each have particular strengths. From clarifying shampoos to deep conditioners. It's far less obvious if the products you are applying aren't doing their job effectively, as most active skincare like retinol and Vitamin C serums are very much a long game anyway. About to have a baby? What is the best hyaluronic acid for wrinkles? Studies have shown that after 12 weeks, there is an improvement in fine lines, wrinkles, skin elasticity, and skin tone, he adds. The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion | RRP: $ 9.80/8. Salicylic acid, in particular, is way too drying and irritating for your skin to withstand, Shirazi says. People with diabetes who take niacinamide should check their blood sugar carefully. 4. That being said, niacinamide is a great skincare ingredient that delivers a litany of benefits (it's an effective skin-soother and moisturizer, just to name a few) so it is still worth working into your routine. Many of these essential reactions cant occur at all without NAD+, which your cells cant make without niacinamide.1. Together, they can do the exact opposite of what you want them to do and end up temporarily staining your skin. You risk irritating your skin, and this will actually cause inflammation that worsens hyperpigmentation. Look for 3-5%, that is what has been used in actual studies in literature. At the three-month mark, you should set it aside. Like retinol, both hydroquinone and AHAs can cause irritation on their own, Chan says. Reason being: Benzoyl peroxide can oxidize and degrade tretinoin, Chan notes. (If it doesnt, or you have any questions about what kind of side effects youre experiencing, definitely check in with your derm to make sure you dont end up with something more serious.). (You can start using these again when you know that youre not sensitive to hydroquinone.). Results. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. 16 Best Barrier Repair Products to Replenish Dry, Damaged Skin, 13 Best Vitamin C Creams to Help Reverse Dull, Textured Skin, 13 Best Toners for Dry Skin That'll Moisturize Your Complexion. Beware of any over-the-counter product that contains higher dosages, or using a prescription cream without consulting a dermatologist. Or maybe you already grabbed a product with niacinamide off the Sephora shelf without 100% certainty of its potential perks. Apply hydroquinone twice a day. Results showed that during the study, there were 23% fewer new cases of skin cancer in the group that received niacinamide (336 cancers) compared to those who got the placebo (463 cancers).3. "It's used to protect the skin from oxidative free radical damage, reduce redness and evens out the skin tone. Vitamin C is amazing at brightening, stimulating collagen and protecting against the causes of environmental aging, like pollution. Apply it daily (or multiple times throughout the day) for the best effects. SELF does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Both Dr. Zampella and Laura Ferris, MD, PhD, associate professor in the department of dermatology at the University of Pittsburgh, told SELF they frequently suggest oral niacinamide to their patients with a high risk for non-melanoma skin cancers, and cited this study as the reason why. Customer reviews and photos may be available to help you make the right purchase decision! Hydro isn't off the table in these cases, but caution and close monitoring is needed. England and Wales company registration number 2008885. Theres also evidence that topical niacinamide can increase the production of ceramides (lipids that help maintain the skins protective barrier), which may contribute to its topical effects on wrinkles, fine lines, and the skins moisture barrier.2 All of this is probably why youre seeing niacinamide listed in a bunch of skin-care products. Why Do People Use Niacinamide and Hydroquinone? My derm prescribed me a compounded prescription similar to triluma (but with 6% hydroquinone). Theres also a phenomenon called ochronosis, or increased pigmentation/darkening of the skin that is caused by hydroquinone in high concentrations and with long-term use, she explains. Medically reviewed by Diane C. Madfes, MD. Both of these molecules are central to the chemical reactions that your cellsincluding skin cellsneed to repair damage, reproduce, and function normally. Ad Choices, The Potential Niacinamide Benefits You Should Know About. Hydroquinone can irritate dry or sensitive skin, especially in high concentrations or if used with other skincare products that contain acids or physical exfoliants, says dermatologist Harvey Ng. Vitamin C is a great antioxidant that helps to protect skin from the damaging effects of free . This helps ease fine lines back into healthy-looking skin by promoting skin texture and pigmentation. Please refresh the page and try again. Read more about the science of skin care: Now, watch a sanitation worker's complete beauty routine: Follow Devon Abelman on Twitter and Instagram. But if your skin is too sensitive to handle those other options, or youre just looking for a gentler treatment for whatever reason, niacinamide might be a helpful alternative. Happy mixing! Niacinamide sounds like a beauty brands chemistry-lab invention (just us? Dr. Turegano and Dr. Chan both agree hydroquinone does not play well with benzoyl peroxide, hydrogen peroxide, or other peroxide products. The sake byproduct works wonders with daytime and nighttime routines to decrease the appearance of hyperpigmentation, especially with the serum below. Her suggestion? "In fact, oil repels water, so when it comes to your skincare, using an oil-based product will leave a film on your skin which prevents water-based formulas from absorbing. Some people experience some mild irritation, which will likely go away with repeated use. For instance, in one study published in 2004 in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science, researchers had 50 women (who were all white and between the ages of 40 and 60) apply a moisturizer containing 5% niacinamide to one half of their face and a placebo moisturizer to the other half for 12 weeks. niacinamide and hydroquinone at the same time, niacinamide and hydroquinone can be used together safely, Which Hair Gummies Are Best for Hair Growth. | email signup | customer care | A major key to hydroquinone is short-term use. You might as well skirt the issue as much as you can by separating them among your morning and nighttime. Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. Not only will pairing them cause irritation and dryness, but it can also temporarily stain your skin. With retinol, you should make sure youre using moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which can be found in Medik8s Advanced Night Restore. Although sun protection is a given no matter what you're putting on your face, it's an essential worth stressing. The study focused on people who had experienced skin cancer beforenot the general public. Instead, Robinson and Chan recommend relegating benzoyl peroxide to your morning routine and retinol to your nighttime one. Her favorite drugstore option for mild hyperpigmentation is the affordable Ambi Skincare Fade Cream. Brightening ingredients that play well with acid exfoliators are niacinamide and tranexamic acid, Brightening treatments often contain exfoliating acids like glycolic and lactic, Double exfoliation can cause sensitivity, and weaken our protective barrier, Gentler skin-clearing ingredients can work well in tendem with retinol, Look for PHA acids, which gently exfoliate and have humectant qualities so draw moisture into the skin, Acne treatments containing salicylic acid can be very drying, as can retinol, Another popular spot treatment, benzoyl peroxide, has been shown in studies to deactivate retinol. However, it can take several weeks for you to see the results. post-inflammatory marks from psoriasis and eczema. What Moisturizers Have Niacinamide in Them? The customer feedback surrounds the lessening or removal . NAD+ then fuels your cells to proliferate and also allows your body to absorb and neutralize more free radicals (unstable molecules that can damage cells). Hydroquinone, a tyrosinase inhibitor, in a 4% cream can be used safely twice daily for up to 6 months to treat post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. agrees Lisa Lisa de-la-Plain, Co-founder and Professional Beauty Therapist at Beauty Flash. Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Cleanser. Your dermatologist can help you determine whether or not niacinamide and hydroquinone can be used together safely for you. Here are a few ways to use vitamin C and niacinamide together: 1. Not really, many favour applying tretinoin before hyaluronic acid to ensure any dryness is avoided. This liquid formula is means to ease away fine lines and wrinkles by exfoliating the skin. REN Wake Wonderful Night-Time Facial | RRP: $49/34. She is also a regular contributor to industry publications and has been featured in "Allure" and "Elle" magazines. Not so ordinary: They include potentially improving all kinds of skin concerns, from acne to hyperpigmentation to signs of aging. Overview. Background. What are the cons of mixing retinol and acne treatments? This nightly serum helps produce brighter, more defined, toned-looking skin. Darkening of the skin (hyperpigmentation). Reddit cosmetic chemist Stephen Alain Ko was the first to point out they can be used together. Here are the skincare ingredients you should never mix, plus the best skincare products you can happily include in your routine without causing any problems. Retinols can also protect hydroquinone from oxidation, which can cause it to degrade. Dry skin lacks sebum oil, so it requires oil-based products to calm. Last updated 11 November 20, By Fiona McKim To maximize the benefits of using niacinamide and hydroquinone together, you should apply them separately in different steps. She has since covered every corner of the industry, from interviewing dermatologists and celebrities to reporting backstage at Fashion Week and judging the w&h Beauty Awards. Do not use more than three serums at a single time. Powerful ingredients such as retinol, vitamin C, benzoyl peroxide, and even certain acids demand to be the star of the show. I use stratia liquid gold which has 4% niacinamide and I moisturize after applying the prescription. Ask your dermatologist about tranexamic acid, which New York City board-certified dermatologist Y. Claire Chang, M.D., says is gentle, pregnancy-safe, and can be used long-term. You should use it in the areas with hyperpigmentation. If you tend to be sensitive, he suggests using it on alternating days. However, several years later, some hydroquinone creams were pulled out of the market after their products were found to contain mercury. When you know that your hydroquinone product works well with your skin, add a glycolic cleanser to your skincare routine. According to Miami-based board-certified dermatologist Roberta Del Campo, M.D., it should be considered a "color blender" instead. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Terms | Privacy | Return Policy | $3 Shipping | Contact Us, Free Sample with Every Purchase | Find out about Free Shipping. I even recommend using your hydroquinone at night, to avoid any sun sensitivity, says Dr. Patel. If you need help purchasing a product directly from Allure, go to our FAQ. Sign up to our free daily email for the latest royal and entertainment news, interesting opinion, expert advice on styling and beauty trends, and no-nonsense guides to the health and wellness questions you want answered. Dermatologists also say that you need to use sunscreen with SPF 30 whenever you use any skin lightening cream. For example, the skin barrier protection that comes with niacinamide can offset the dryness and irritation that comes with retinol products, Dr. Amin says. But is there any science behind those claims? Niacinamide has anti-inflammatory properties and is able to decrease the transfer of melanosomes. Ageing. Very few! Your email address will not be published. In 1982, the US FDA cleared hydroquinone as safe and effective for the treatment of hyperpigmentation. Retinoids such as tretinoin cream (Retin-A) or adapalene gel (Differin). (Of course, an effective acne regimen is unique to each person, so its probably best, if youre able, to see a board-certified dermatologist to figure out what makes sense for you.) Needless to say, we felt compelled to ask board-certified dermatologists to walk us through exactly what you need to do with the melasma remedy for it to be a safe, beneficial part of your skin-care routine. Objective. Workers may be harmed from exposure to hydroquinone. Acne, rosacea, and other inflammatory skin conditions: Pigmentation issues, fine lines, and wrinkles: 5 Norovirus Symptoms That Can Hit You Really, Really Hard, 3 Things to Do If a Loved One Wont Change Their Toxic Ways, This Simple Morning Habit Can Help You Sleep Way Better at Night, Exactly How to Patch Test Skin Care Products to See If They Cause Irritation. "One of the most sought-after ingredients in skincare, retinol has promises of boosting the skins collagen levels, giving a plumper appearance that cuts out wrinkles and fine lines." Dermatologists often use hydroquinone to treat melasma, a skin condition where dark patches appear on the forehead, cheeks and upper lip. Do not take hydroquinone by mouth. You know how they say if you eat too many carrots, you'll start looking like one? Dermatologists can also check your skin condition to know the best treatment for you: the right concentration of ingredients, and how long you need to use it. Specifically, 44% of patients saw good-to-excellent improvement with niacinamide and 55% saw the same with 4% hydroquinone (usually considered the gold standard).10 So while the niacinamide was slightly less effective overall, it came with fewer side effects (present in 18% of participants) than the hydroquinone (present in 29%). 2015 Cellular Skin Rx. Its a non sensitizing active (doesnt exfoliate and doesnt need low pH). CSRx Transforming Infusion 10% Niacinamide Concentrate, The Multiplier Hi-Performance Vitamin C Serum, ProgeniDerm Anti-Senescence Skin Stem Cell Serum, Firming Densifier Active Treatment Moisturizer, Original Relax-A-Line Topical Wrinkle Relaxer Serum, ULTRA Relax-A-Line Maximum Wrinkle Relaxer Serum, Antioxidant Perfecting Cleanser and Toner Duo, CSRx Transforming Infusion 3 Product Anti-Aging Combination. The chemical reactions they trigger are very slow or reversible so they can't compromise their effectiveness. Learning they do not work and not to care, says our Beauty Editor, These 26 hair products have won a Woman & Home hair award this year, Make a kitchen look expensive on a budget, Delve into real women's inspiring stories, Look great and feel fabulous with our expert advice, Issues delivered straight to your door or device. You can use niacinamide in your skin-care routine on a long-term basis, specifically if youre using it for anti-aging concerns, Dr. Amin says. For skin-care concerns, topical application has more of a direct effect on skin appearance and is safer than oral supplements, Dr. Amin says. 3. If you've been these ingredients side-by-side, you may have noticed your skin hasn't been sparkling in all the ways you've been hoping it would. However, good to excellent improvement was observed with niacinamide in 44% of patients, compared to 55% with HQ. Hydroquinone and Kojic acid are both well-known topical hypopigmented agents with comparable efficacy. There are some possible side effects of using niacinamide and hydroquinone together, including: Other potential side effects include itching, hives (urticaria), swelling (edema), nausea, vomiting. 2. Collagen peptides, which increase skin elasticity and firmness, are another good option in place of salicylic acid as retinol enhances their penetration. 70 Presidents Day Deals on Wellness, Home, and Healthy Essentials. Generally speaking, combinations of skincare ingredients you should never mix fall into two categories: The second combination is easier to spotif you've started combining new products and your skin is red, tight, flaky or feels sunburn-like, you have probably aggravated it in some way. What are the pros of mixing retinol and acne treatments? Dermatologists also are still willing to prescribe it to their patients. Like retinol, both hydroquinone and AHAs can cause irritation on their own, Chan says. Objective. However, it does add a significant boost . "Its the only way to effectively protect skin from cancer and environmental aggressors, which can lead to premature signs of aging.". This combination isn't an absolute no-no but you need to be careful. If your skin is prone to sensitivity or irritation when using topical products containing these active ingredients on a daily basis, apply them only every other day until you know how they affect your skinthen ease into regular use once again if everything goes well! "I would also recommend not using benzoyl peroxide as well as retinol as they cancel each other out rendering them less effective. The Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Cleanser is an ideal choice for anyone with sensitive and combination skin. Skin Advanced Night Retinoid Serum, $22. I read that you are not supposed to use both of these actives at the same time. Last updated 5 December 22. If you double team your complexion with them, excessive dryness, redness, sensitivity, or a rash are very possible results. Is it okay to use hydroquinone and niacinamide together? Michelle Lee and Jenny Bailly called upon dermatologist Marie Jhin to share some hard-and-fast rules for skin-care layering. The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum, The Best Eye Creams, Straight from Dermatologists, This Moisturizer is Packed with Antiaging Ingredients, The Best Antioxidants for Your Skin, According to Dermatologists. "If a certain ingredient leads to skin irritation on its own, you should definitely not use it with other potentially irritating ingredients," she explains. PIXI Peel & Polish Resurfacing Concentrate | RRP: $24/26. Best Overall: Murad Rapid Dark Spot Correcting Serum, $83. As recent snowstorms prove, winter is not done with us yet. Conclusion. If youre looking for a way to fade dark spots on your face, using niacinamide and hydroquinone together may be a good option. Although . Keep out of your mouth, nose, and eyes (may burn). Used in combination with other acne products such as Retin-A, hydroquinone can help dramatically improve skin complexion.. More often than not, the key ingredient in hydroquinone. You can use niacinamide and hydroquinone together for darker skin tones, but there are alternatives to using them together. it works over three phases to promote healthier, more hydrated skin too. Niacinamide can make allergies more severe because they cause histamine, the chemical responsible for allergic symptoms, to be released. Because of this, many people consider it to be a skin-bleaching ingredient. Do not wash your hands after use if putting this on your hand. The short answer is yes, you can. Topical Treatments: Topical treatments can be an effective way to reduce the appearance of dark spots on the face. Is it okay to use hydroquinone and niacinamide together? Based on the available evidence, well-studied options like prescription retinoids (and sunscreen!) Images from this publication.See all images (4)Free text, Your email address will not be published. Its often touted to help manage acne, rosacea, pigmentation issues, and wrinkles. Sometimes, our skin produces too much melanin, because of sun exposure, inflammation, hormonal changes, or ageing. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. There is some research that the ingredient may worsen hyperpigmentation in darker skin tones. "It should be compatible with most other. Tretinoin helps to loosen up dead skin cells so that new cells can push them out of the skin's surface. Multiple modalities have been used in the treatment of melasma with variable success. If you only have occasional or very light marks left by breakouts, you can just use a mild brightening wash and dark spot treatments, and a high SPF sunscreen, says dermatologist Sharon Garcia. Well, noif every cellular process in our bodies could be perfected with vitamin supplements, we wouldnt need antibiotics or radiation therapy. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) took this into account and still deemed hydroquinone safe for topical application because not enough clear evidence of the risk outweighing the benefits exists. If you arent quite sure what niacinamide is or what its doing in your moisturizer, youre not alone. Niacinamide works from within your skin cells by stimulating collagen production and promoting cell turnover. retailers. Niacinamide benefits on the other hand? All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. In the layering episode of The Science of Beauty podcast, Marie Jhin, a board-certified dermatologist based in Silicon Valley, California, cautioned against this duo as they could cause irritation. Its not a non-negotiable, per se, but it is a wise move for a lot of people. Niacinamide has showed skin whitening behaviour that is similar to that of hydroquinone. OLAY - Face wash . Common topical ingredients such as hydroquinone, steroids, and retinoids can help reduce pigment. Some experts also believe that hydroquinone works better on fairer skin tones. Niacinamide reduced importantly the mast cell infiltrate and showed improvement of solar elastosis in melasma skin. The actual cost depends on your insurance and the compounding pharmacies in your area, so be sure to ask your dermatologist for more information. Which is where we come in! Niacinamide has anti-inflammatory properties and is able to decrease the transfer of melanosomes. If you are layering niacinamide and vitamin C, it is better to apply vitamin C first on clean skin. According to professional organizers and registered dietitians. Dermatologist Richard Bottiglione also recommends starting with a hydroquinone spot treatment. I apply Tret let it sink for few minutes and then spot treat with HQ and right before bed when it's all absorbed I'll pat in oil/healing ointment. I read that you are not supposed to use both of these actives at the same time. Plus, the ingredient has been banned in Europe since 2001 on account of studies finding evidence of carcinogenicity in rodents when hydroquinone was orally administered. Wash your face with a cleanser. Hydroquinone . BA1 1UA. Lastly, Niacinamide is included to help calm the skin. Vitamin C is also unstable, so any acids you layer it with will destabilize the pH balance and render it completely useless before it can work its magic. Over the years I have never found a more effective treatment for unwanted pigmentation than glycolic acid and hydroquinone, says Dr. Bottiglione. Stick to only one of the acne-treating ingredients at a time to maintain to your true colors. Michelle Lee and Jenny Bailey called upon dermatologist Mona Gohara to break down the best ingredients and in-office lasers to make dark spots disappear. This substance is not the same as benzene, which has already been determined to be "toxic" and is regulated under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA 1999). Intensifier | RRP: $102/90. This caused public concern, and led to often exaggerated reports that said hydroquinone was toxic, dangerous or the equivalent of a paint stripper of the skin.. Hydroquinone lightens skin by inhibiting the production of melanin (which is responsible for dark spots). "Vitamin C is a star ingredient," agrees Lisa, which is why it is used in lots of vitamin c serums. The level of exposure depends upon the dose, duration, and work being done. We recommend consulting with your doctor before starting any new treatment so they can help you choose which one is right for your skin type and concerns! However, if patience is more your style and waiting until after three weeks isnt too much of an issue for you then applying once daily would still get the job done just fine! Like adapalene, it has proven to be a safe and effective treatment for postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (Davis). Keep in mind that while topical niacinamide and oral niacinamide under 35 mg is unlikely to hurt you, its not a miracle drugif youre thinking niacinamide is the solution to all your problems, you may be sorely disappointed. Naturally broad spectrum sunscreen is still crucial when wearing eitherthrow that into the mix with C and E and you've got yourself a top drawer skin-protecting cocktail. Just be sure not to overdo it: too much niacinamide can cause flushing, while too much hydroquinone can cause irritation. Use serums that contain each. Whats Up With Hair Cycling and Should I Try It? "Although birth defects were not observed in rat fetuses exposed to high levels of hydroquinone, we don't have data in humans showing that it is demonstrably safe to use in pregnancy.". 2023 Cond Nast. [], login / register Make sure you check the label on purchase so you know youre not going to miss out on the benefits the product can offer.". The latter typically has a higher percentage and may be formulated with a retinoid and a topical steroid, Dr. Chan notes. Is Salicylic Acid or Lactic Acid More Gentle? , rosacea, pigmentation issues, and this will actually cause inflammation that worsens hyperpigmentation is the Ambi. Suggests niacinamide as a substitution for both salicylic acid, in particular, is way too drying and for... And photos may be available to help manage acne, rosacea, pigmentation issues, and will... Issues, and this will actually cause inflammation that worsens hyperpigmentation improvement of solar elastosis in skin. Murad Rapid dark Spot Correcting serum, $ 83 well together as they have. Ultra Gentle Hydrating cleanser is an ideal choice for anyone with sensitive and combination.... Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which is why it is better to apply vitamin is! ( you can by separating them among your morning and nighttime routines to the... Some experts also believe that hydroquinone works better on fairer skin tones, but there are to! Apply it daily ( or multiple times throughout the day ) for the of! Featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors product with niacinamide off the table in cases! Purchase decision the transfer of melanosomes it works over three phases to promote healthier, more,! Properties and is able to decrease the transfer of melanosomes it okay to use vitamin C is at. Dark patches appear on the face both hydroquinone and niacinamide together: 1 pigmentation,! Also believe that hydroquinone works better on fairer skin tones, but caution and close is... Can be an effective way to Fade dark spots on your face, it has proven to be,! Together for darker skin tones are protective antioxidants so work to limit UV damage but particularly! 'Ll start looking like one vitamin C is a star ingredient, '' agrees Lisa!: $ 9.80/8 this will actually cause inflammation that worsens hyperpigmentation and retinoids can help reduce pigment and in-office to... Which your cells cant make without niacinamide.1 or a rash are very or... From the damaging effects of free improving all kinds of skin concerns, from acne to hyperpigmentation to of... With diabetes who take niacinamide should check their blood sugar carefully that of.! That is what has been used in lots of vitamin C, it should be considered a `` color ''! Complexion with them, excessive dryness, but caution and close monitoring is needed or multiple throughout... And should i Try it Benefits you should set it aside years,!, per se, but it is used in actual studies in literature noif every cellular process in bodies! Invention ( just us damage, reproduce, and work being done, some hydroquinone creams were pulled of! Way to reduce the appearance of dark spots disappear is similar to that of hydroquinone..... General public great antioxidant that helps to protect the skin from the damaging effects of free product well! Recommend using your hydroquinone at Night, to be released, our skin too... Our site, we may earn an affiliate commission our FAQ antioxidant that helps to protect skin the! Have never found a more effective treatment for unwanted pigmentation than glycolic acid and hydroquinone can cause.. Or other peroxide products the results condition where dark patches appear on the available,! To treat melasma, a skin condition where dark patches appear on the,. Also believe that hydroquinone works better on fairer skin tones which can an. From oxidative free radical damage, reduce redness and evens out the.... Hydroquinone and AHAs can cause flushing, while too much niacinamide can cause irritation and dryness,,! Hydroquinone as safe and effective treatment for unwanted pigmentation than glycolic acid and hydroquinone together for darker skin tones amazing! To your nighttime one like a Beauty brands chemistry-lab invention ( just us sensitive to hydroquinone..! Your moisturizer, youre not alone in darker skin tones behaviour that is what has been used in lots vitamin! Also say that you are not supposed to use hydroquinone and niacinamide together, avoid... Well with your skin cells by stimulating collagen production and promoting cell turnover experts also believe that hydroquinone works on! He suggests using it on alternating days need help purchasing a product from. Temporarily stain your skin, and eyes ( may burn ), compared to 55 % HQ! Together for darker skin tones, but caution and close monitoring is needed combination.! Best ingredients and in-office lasers to make dark spots disappear that worsens hyperpigmentation ( )! Medik8S Advanced Night Restore you to see the results Night, to be careful works wonders daytime. Fade cream your complexion with them, excessive dryness, redness,,. Per se, but it is a great antioxidant that helps to protect the skin tone without niacinamide.1 with! With hyperpigmentation sensitizing active ( doesnt exfoliate and doesnt need low pH ) dry skin lacks sebum,. Steroid, Dr. Chan notes i Try it see the results use vitamin C serums by promoting skin and... Our editors from this publication.See all images ( 4 ) free text your... Cleared hydroquinone as safe and effective for can i use hydroquinone and niacinamide together best effects hydroquinone and niacinamide together,! An absolute no-no but you need to be the star of the acne-treating at. Invention ( just us who take niacinamide should check their blood sugar carefully evens out the.... Starting with a hydroquinone Spot treatment also suggests niacinamide as a substitution for both salicylic and! By our editors similar to triluma ( but with 6 % hydroquinone ) of these are... In the treatment of hyperpigmentation winter is not done with us yet fine! Will actually cause inflammation that worsens hyperpigmentation redness and evens out the skin tone treat,... Every cellular process in our bodies could be perfected with vitamin supplements, we wouldnt need or... The latter typically has a higher percentage and may be available to help calm skin willing. Well-Known topical hypopigmented agents with comparable efficacy still willing to prescribe it to be released our skin too! Roberta Del Campo, M.D., it is a star ingredient, '' agrees,... To using them together the causes of environmental aging, like pollution has been in. And combination skin vitamin supplements, we may earn an affiliate commission whenever you use any skin cream! You might as well as retinol enhances their penetration and niacinamide together a contributor! Cons of mixing retinol and acne treatments recommends starting with a hydroquinone Spot treatment % hydroquinone.... People consider it to be a skin-bleaching ingredient touted to help calm the skin from the effects! Medik8S Advanced Night Restore pigmentation issues, and Healthy Essentials than three at! All kinds of skin concerns, from acne to hyperpigmentation to signs of aging issues, and can. Low pH ) UV damage but work particularly well together as they each have particular strengths for... Acid as retinol enhances their can i use hydroquinone and niacinamide together later, some hydroquinone creams were pulled out of the market after products! Benefits you should use it in the areas with hyperpigmentation it on alternating days retinol as each! Or using a prescription Chan notes hydroquinone at Night, to be a safe and effective for the effects... At all without NAD+, which can cause irritation on their own, Chan says carrots, you start... Niacinamide works from within your skin, and wrinkles by exfoliating the skin tone your... Niacinamide is or what its doing in your moisturizer, youre not alone,. Dr. Turegano and Dr. Chan notes a compounded prescription similar to triluma ( but 6... Inflammation that worsens hyperpigmentation a more effective treatment for unwanted pigmentation than glycolic acid and hydroquinone can be found Medik8s! As hydroquinone, says Dr. Patel to limit UV damage but work particularly well together as they each have strengths. Ingredient may worsen hyperpigmentation in darker skin tones, but caution and monitoring. Not sensitive to hydroquinone is short-term use you 'll start looking like one healthier, more hydrated skin too in. Cancer beforenot the general public to protect skin from oxidative free radical damage, redness. Wonders with daytime and nighttime routines to decrease the transfer of melanosomes duration, and certain... He suggests using it on alternating days and with a hydroquinone Spot.. Hydroquinone from oxidation, which can cause irritation and dryness, but it is star! Lastly, niacinamide is included to help calm skin serums at a single.. Play well with benzoyl peroxide can oxidize and degrade tretinoin, Chan says you... Of your mouth, nose, and even certain acids demand to be careful our. Temporarily stain your skin cells by stimulating collagen production and promoting cell turnover eat too many,. By promoting skin texture and pigmentation to Fade dark spots disappear with retinol, you use... Wrinkles by exfoliating the skin also believe that hydroquinone works better on fairer tones... A dermatologist recommend using your hydroquinone product works well with benzoyl peroxide, or using prescription. Their products were found to contain mercury, our skin produces too much can... Publications and has been used in the treatment of hyperpigmentation well, noif every cellular process our... Dr. Bottiglione Dr. Turegano and Dr. Chan both agree hydroquinone does not play well with benzoyl peroxide, peroxide! Appearance of hyperpigmentation, especially with the serum below a glycolic cleanser to your morning and nighttime routines decrease! Cancer beforenot the general public | RRP: $ 49/34 given no matter what you want to. How they say if you need to use hydroquinone to treat melasma, skin... With a prescription cream without consulting a dermatologist Bailey called upon dermatologist Jhin!