Based on the provided reference, you should be cautious about mixing vitamin C with AHAs (glycolic acid) and BHAs (salicylic acid).
Understanding the Interaction
Mixing Vitamin C with other acidic ingredients like Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) can potentially lead to skin irritation.
- Acidity Factor: Vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs are all acidic.
- pH Balance: Layering these acidic ingredients together can significantly lower your skin's natural pH level.
- Risk of Irritation: When the skin's pH becomes too acidic or unbalanced, it can result in unwanted side effects.
The reference states: "Vitamin C, AHAs (glycolic acid), and BHAs (salicylic acid) are acidic in nature. Layering them together can lower the skin's pH, making it more acidic. When skin pH goes off balance, it becomes a recipe for skin irritation, redness, and peeling."
Ingredients to Be Cautious About Mixing
According to the reference, the main ingredients to avoid mixing directly with Vitamin C are other acids.
Here are the specific examples mentioned:
- AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids)
- Example: Glycolic Acid
- BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids)
- Example: Salicylic Acid
Layering these ingredients simultaneously can increase the likelihood of skin sensitivity.
Potential Outcomes of Mixing
Mixing these acidic ingredients as described can lead to:
- Skin irritation
- Redness
- Peeling
To minimize these risks, it is generally recommended to use such ingredients at different times of the day or on alternating days, allowing your skin's pH to remain balanced.
