Can You Use Retinol and Niacinamide Together? The Pairing Most Routines Get Wrong

The short answer: yes. Retinol and niacinamide can be used in the same routine, and they actually work better together than separately. The idea that they cancel each other out is one of skincare's most persistent myths, and it is based on old research that does not apply to modern formulas.

Where the myth comes from

The confusion dates back to a 1960s study that mixed pure ascorbic acid (vitamin C) with niacinamide at high temperatures. It found the two could convert into nicotinic acid, which causes flushing. The study had nothing to do with retinol, but the idea of ingredients that cancel each other out stuck, and retinol got swept into it.

Modern niacinamide formulas are stable at room temperature, buffered to skin-friendly pH, and combine safely with almost every active ingredient in skincare, retinol included.

Why retinol and niacinamide work together

The two ingredients solve different problems and support each other's results.

• Retinol accelerates cell turnover, smooths texture, fades pigmentation, and supports collagen. The trade-off is that it can cause dryness, redness, and barrier sensitivity, especially in the first few weeks.
• Niacinamide strengthens the skin barrier, calms inflammation, improves moisture retention, and helps even tone. It is one of the few ingredients shown to reduce retinol-related irritation in clinical studies.

Used together, you keep the renewal benefits of retinol without the rough edges. Niacinamide is essentially retinol's best support act.

How to layer them: the correct order

1. Cleanse with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser.
2. Apply your niacinamide serum first (lighter, water-based textures always go before heavier ones).
3. Wait one to two minutes for absorption.
4. Apply retinol next, focusing on the areas you want to target.
5. Finish with a hydrating moisturiser like our Hydrating Complex 10% Moisturiser to seal everything in and reduce dryness.

If you prefer a combination product, our GloPotion Retinoid + Squalane 1% Moisturiser delivers retinoid and barrier-supporting squalane in one easy step.

The mistakes to avoid

The real risk is not in combining these two ingredients. It is in overdoing actives in general. If your skin reacts, the cause is usually frequency, not pairing.

• Don't use retinol every night until your skin tolerates it. Start with two or three evenings a week.
• Don't stack AHAs, BHAs, and retinol in the same evening.
• Don't skip SPF the next morning, retinol increases sun sensitivity.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use retinol and niacinamide in the same product?

Yes. Many modern formulas combine both for an easier, balanced routine. Our GloPotion Retinoid + Squalane 1% Moisturiser is a good example.

Should I use niacinamide in the morning and retinol at night?

This is a great approach. Niacinamide pairs beautifully with sunscreen, and retinol works best in the evening when skin renewal naturally peaks.

How long until I see results?

Niacinamide effects (less redness, more even tone) show in two to four weeks. Retinol results, including smoothing and brightening, typically take eight to twelve weeks of consistent use.

Is it safe to use both during pregnancy?

Niacinamide is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Retinol is not recommended in pregnancy. Speak to your doctor for personalised advice.