Ingredient pairing

Can you mix Lactic acid and Retinyl Propionate?

Q: Can you mix Lactic acid and Retinyl Propionate?

These clash. Retinoids and exfoliants both speed up cell turnover, so together they tend to stack irritation and can wear down your barrier. Use them on alternate nights rather than the same evening.

ClashThese clash.

Lactic acid Retinyl Propionate

Retinoids and exfoliants both speed up cell turnover, so together they tend to stack irritation and can wear down your barrier.

Do this: Use them on alternate nights rather than the same evening.

☀ Morning

Nothing here

☾ Evening

Lactic acidRetinyl Propionate

Use on alternate nights, not the same evening.

Lactic acidWorth paying for

Efficacy8

Hydration6

Anti-aging5

Skip if: very sensitive, compromised barrier

Ask your doctor in pregnancy

Retinyl PropionatePromising, not proven

Efficacy5

Anti-aging4

Brightening2

Skip if: pregnancy, breastfeeding

Not in pregnancy

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General guidance, not medical advice. When in doubt, introduce one product at a time.