Glycolic Acid + Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Safe to Combine
These ingredients are generally well-tolerated together with no special precautions needed.
Niacinamide and glycolic acid are an excellent combination that can be used together in the same routine.
What the Research Says
Despite a persistent skincare myth that niacinamide and acids cancel each other out, modern research has thoroughly debunked this claim. The original concern was based on a study showing that niacinamide could convert to niacin (nicotinic acid) at low pH, potentially causing flushing. However, that reaction requires prolonged heating at temperatures far above what skin experiences, and modern cosmetic formulations are stable at the pH ranges used in glycolic acid products.
In fact, niacinamide complements glycolic acid beautifully. Glycolic acid exfoliates by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells, while niacinamide strengthens the skin barrier, reduces transepidermal water loss, and calms inflammation. This means niacinamide can actually help offset the mild irritation that glycolic acid sometimes causes, making the combination more tolerable than glycolic acid alone.
Multiple clinical studies have shown that combining niacinamide with AHAs improves outcomes for hyperpigmentation, acne, and overall skin texture compared to using either ingredient alone.
Timing & How to Use
Can be applied in the same routine, one after the other. Apply glycolic acid first (lower pH product), wait 1-2 minutes for absorption, then apply niacinamide. Alternatively, use glycolic acid in the evening and niacinamide in the morning.
Practical Tips
- 1Ignore the myth that these two ingredients are incompatible - modern formulations are stable together
- 2If you have very sensitive skin, start by using them at different times of day before layering
- 3Many products already combine niacinamide with AHAs in a single formula
- 4Niacinamide can help reduce the redness that glycolic acid sometimes causes
References
- Gehring W. Nicotinic acid/niacinamide and the skin. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2004;3(2):88-93.
- Draelos ZD, et al. Niacinamide-containing facial moisturizer improves skin barrier and benefits subjects with rosacea. Cutis. 2005;76(2):135-41.
- Bissett DL, et al. Niacinamide: A B vitamin that improves aging facial skin appearance. Dermatol Surg. 2005;31(7 Pt 2):860-5.
