Based on available information, niacinamide serum is highly recommended and beneficial to use with retinol.
When incorporating retinol into your skincare routine, finding the right complementary serum can significantly enhance results while minimizing potential side effects like dryness or irritation. While "best" can depend on individual skin needs, niacinamide stands out as an excellent partner for retinol according to dermatologists.
Why Pair Niacinamide with Retinol?
The combination of niacinamide and retinol is particularly effective because niacinamide helps to mitigate some of retinol's common challenges.
- Counteracts Dryness: One of the primary benefits highlighted is that when used together with retinol, niacinamide specifically helps to counteract retinol-induced dryness. Retinol can sometimes cause initial dryness or flaking as the skin adjusts, and niacinamide's hydrating properties help balance this out.
- Enhances Hydration: Niacinamide is widely known to enhance hydration in the skin. By boosting the skin's moisture levels, it creates a more comfortable environment for retinol to work effectively.
- Protects Skin Barrier: Niacinamide is also widely known to help protect the skin barrier. A healthy skin barrier is crucial when using active ingredients like retinol, as it helps prevent moisture loss and protects against external irritants.
Safety and Layering
Adding to its benefits, layering niacinamide serum with retinol is considered safe. According to Dr. Mokaya, it is safe to do so if you prefer layering your serums with retinol. This makes incorporating niacinamide into your existing routine simple and effective.
In summary, while other serums may address different concerns, niacinamide is a top choice for pairing with retinol, specifically for its ability to enhance hydration, support the skin barrier, and directly address the common side effect of dryness.
