Skincare Ingredient Perfect Pairings

Cosmetic chemistry is an incredibly intricate science, however, there are some ingredients that undoubtedly complement each other and increase effectiveness. Here are the power couples of the skincare world!

RETINOL + HYALURONIC ACID

Retinol is a potent ingredient used to assist with acne breakouts, skin cell turnover and is well known for its anti-ageing benefits.

It must be used with some degree of caution at first as it does have the ability to cause some skin irritation and peeling. 

Hyaluronic acid is a moisture magnet, it assists with water retention in the surface layers of the skin and it plays a crucial role in wound repair. By pairing your retinol of choice with a hyaluronic acid serum, you'll be able to balance the initial irritation effects while allowing your skin to drink up both the youth and moisture-boosting benefits.

Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Cream

Combining vegan retinol with skin-nourishing superfood ingredients, this treatment helps restore bounce, resilience and youthfulness to the skin. Continued use over time reveals a brighter complexion and fewer signs of ageing.

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

The price of this serum has ensured its place at the top of the bestsellers list. Prior to The Ordinary launching, you couldn't find a hyaluronic acid serum at such a price point. All skin types will benefit from the hydrating rewards of this purse-friendly serum. Use it morning and evening after cleansing for maximum results.

VITAMIN C + VITAMIN E

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that helps regulate melanin production, reduces pigmentation, and aids collagen production.

It is, difficult to formulate as it can be unstable. When it is paired with Vitamin E (another antioxidant), it becomes more stable and effective.

Timeless Skin Care 20% Vitamin C Serum + Vitamin E + Ferulic Acid

This super-antioxidant serum pairs 20% vitamin C with vitamin E, offering a highly potent hit of brightening action that is well tolerated.

Skin Medica Vitamin C+E Complex

This serum targets the appearance of skin tone, texture and firmness while supplying all-day protection from free radicals and premature ageing. Vitamins C and E release gradually throughout the day, to promote collagen production and a brighter, smoother and more luminous complexion.

GLYCOLIC ACID + VITAMIN C

Glycolic acid is an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) family, derived from sugar cane and known for its brightening and exfoliating properties.

Vitamin C works well in conjunction with glycolic acid as the duo assists with reducing dark spots and improving skin clarity and brightness.

Perricone MD Vitamin C Ester Brightening Amine Face Lift

This lightweight and fast-absorbing serum works over time to visibly tighten and smooth the skin whilst brightening discolouration for a more firmed and youthful complexion. It has actives to target hyperpigmentation, boost elasticity and gently exfoliate whilst protecting from free radical damage.

SQUALANE + CERAMIDES

Skin is around 65% water and our skin cells require that water to function, however on the skin's surface there is a layer of natural fats. These natural fats consist of squalane, ceramides, fatty acids and cholesterol, and they are essential to the health of skin. They stop the water and nutrients in the skin from evaporating, while providing a protective barrier to keep out harmful pathogens and environmental stressors.

Adding squalane and ceramides into a skincare routine will help strengthen the barrier of the skin and assist with hydration by preventing trans-epidermal water loss.

QRxLabs Squalane E

This serum is 100% pure sugarcane-derived Squalane that has been infused with concentrated Vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that nourishes and protects skin while helping to reduce UV-induced damage.

Apot.Care CERAMIDES Pure Serum - Hydrate

This serum improves your skin's texture while keeping it hydrated, soft and healthy with this ultra-smoothing, skin strengthening serum. Formulated with naturally occurring fatty acids that help to repair and strengthen the skin's natural barrier, resulting in smoother, more youthful looking skin.

GREEN TEA + CAFFEINE

Green tea and caffeine are both great antioxidants that when combined, provide great protection against free radicals.

Caffeine is known for its energising properties and ability to reduce puffiness, whereas green tea hydrates and soothes skin.

Babor Skinovage Vitalizing Eye Cream

The active agent complex made specifically for the needs of the eye area including pomegranate, caffeine, green tea and probiotics provides intense moisture, reduces shadows under the eyes and improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles arising from dry skin.

SALICYLIC ACID + NIACINAMIDE

Salicylic Acid is a pore penetrating Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA). Because of its ability to reduce inflammation, decongest pores and assist with exfoliation, it is commonly used to treat acne.

Niacinamide is an anti-inflammatory antioxidant that helps to improve the skin's barrier function, commonly used to treat acne as well as other inflammatory conditions.

Dermalogica Active Clearing AGE Bright Clearing Serum

Unlike conventional blemish treatments that tend to be drying or work well only on those with a perfect skin barrier, Dermalogica AGE Bright Clearing Serum targets adult acne while supporting the skin.