Skincare products are effective when used alone, but have you considered what would happen if you combined ingredients together? If there are any takeaways from cooking, it’s that certain ingredient combinations can create wonderful results (in case you were wondering, I was thinking about cake). Whoever said “better together” definitely wasn’t lying, and today we’re here to share the top skincare ingredient combinations you should try out for perfecting skin, treating your skin concerns, and maintaining a flawless complexion. Keep scrolling to explore the perfect pairings!

No. 1

Bakuchiol + Vitamin C: Antioxidant Level-Up

Packing on the punches is our ingredient duo for the ultimate antioxidant protection: Bakuchiol and Vitamin C. We’re given the full rundown on Bakuchiol in our dedicated post but in short, it’s a plant-derived form of Vitamin A that gets along better with sensitive skin compared to Retinol. Bakuchiol is a powerhouse for reducing wrinkles, evening skin tone, and offering potent antioxidant protection. It pairs well with Vitamin C to intensify the antioxidant benefits, which means a brighter, youthful glow to the complexion with lightened dark spots. Buh-bye dullness!

Pro tip: while dermatologists deem it generally safe for both ingredients to be used together in the same routine, more sensitive skins may react to these active ingredients. If you do experience any discomfort, try using Vitamin C in your day routine and Bakuchiol during the night.

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No. 2

Salicylic Acid + Niacinamide: No Pore-blems

If enlarged pores are a concern of yours, we’ve got the answer: Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide. Large pores are common amongst people with oily skin, as they are a result of excess sebum and clogged pores. Salicylic Acid enters the pores to clear them of dead skin cells and other debris, while Niacinamide helps the sebaceous glands under the skin regulate oil production. As a result, the pores will tighten and give the appearance of smoother, more even skin.

Pro tip: start slow with incorporating Salicylic Acid in your routine to avoid inducing irritation depending on your skin type. Dermatologists recommend up to 3 times a week, but this can be increased if your skin isn’t showing signs of irritation.

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No. 3

Vitamin C + SPF: Glow for Days

There is the myth that Vitamin C increases photosensitivity and makes your skin more prone to burning, which is why you should pair it with SPF, but this is untrue. More potent forms of Vitamin C don’t get along with light exposure, and so SPF is a must to prevent the Vitamin C from breaking down. SPF should be worn everyday nonetheless, but when you pair Vitamin C with your sunscreen, you’re giving yourself an additional layer of antioxidant protection against free radicals and pollution from UV rays. Antioxidants repair damaged skin and quell inflammation, amongst other benefits.

Pro tip: people with sensitive skin may prefer to apply their Vitamin C at night, as Vitamin C can cause irritation when exposed to light. Furthermore, try different concentrations of Vitamin C to see which one works best for your skin; it’s recommended to start from a lower concentration, for example 5%, and work your way up.

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No. 4

Hyaluronic Acid + Panthenol: Dewy ‘n’ Revived

Skincare expert or beginner, you’ll know that Hyaluronic Acid is a must for dry skin. It’s a humectant, which means it pulls moisture out of the air and to the skin, and can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. When it’s combined with Panthenol, aka Vitamin B5, the moisture reaches even deeper layers of skin for intense hydration. This combo is perfect for anyone suffering from dry skin, especially as temperatures drop, as well as flaking, irritation, or inflammation as Panthenol is an ingredient that soothes the skin. Use this combination and you can expect a smooth and supple complexion.

Pro tip: apply your Hyaluronic Acid to a dampened face. If the weather is cold and humidity is low, the HA won’t have moisture in the air to pull to the skin. It will instead draw moisture from the deeper layers of skin and let it evaporate, leaving your skin feeling drier than before.

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No. 5

Retinol + Peptides: Flourish with Collagen

This way for the ultimate glowy, bouncy skin. Retinol and Peptides are outstanding skincare ingredients on their own, Retinol for speeding up cell turnover and Peptides for boosting collagen production. When used together they practically erase fine lines: Peptides increase the skin’s collagen, while Retinol neutralizes free radicals that break down collagen, resulting in a plumped up complexion that radiates youthfulness. Furthermore, Peptides strengthen the skin barrier and can help reduce sensitivity caused by Retinol.

Pro tip: apply your Hyaluronic Acid to a dampened face. If the weather is cold and humidity is low, the HA won’t have moisture in the air to pull to the skin. It will instead draw moisture from the deeper layers of skin and let it evaporate, leaving your skin feeling drier than before.

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Which skincare ingredient combination are you implementing into your daily routine? Shop this post to nail great skin and don’t forget to check out our Instagram, Facebook, as well as keep an eye on the VANA Blog, for the most updated news, tips, and information!