can i use hydroquinone and niacinamide together

Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our To evaluate the therapeutic effect of topical niacinamide versus hydroquinone (HQ) in melasma patients. 2015 Cellular Skin Rx. All rights reserved. For example, the skin barrier protection that comes with niacinamide can offset the dryness and irritation that comes with retinol products, Dr. Amin says. Niacinamide and retinol are two ingredients that often raise doubts about whether they can be safely used in combination with other actives. Because hydroquinone can cause irritation on its own, Dr. Chan also recommends avoiding other potentially irritating ingredients, such as alpha hydroxy acids, aka AHAs, including glycolic, lactic, and citric varieties. However, when it comes to applying skincare, it is considered important to remember to follow the basic rule, and that is to apply products from thinnest to thickest. Apply niacinamide as part of your morning routine before applying anything else (like moisturizer). We speak of "hat head," static, and dryness. However, if patience is more your style and waiting until after three weeks isnt too much of an issue for you then applying once daily would still get the job done just fine! Hyaluronic Acid is great for this, as it draws moisture into the skin and keeps it there helping it feel plump and comfortable. They may also combine hydroquinone creams with other treatments, so you achieve faster results. There isnt a prescription version of topical niacinamide, but your dermatologist may be able to add it to topical prescriptions in a process called compounding. Tretinoin helps to loosen up dead skin cells so that new cells can push them out of the skin's surface. Based on the available evidence, well-studied options like prescription retinoids (and sunscreen!) Hydro isn't off the table in these cases, but caution and close monitoring is needed. For example, you can happily include several forms of each element to reach a full 10-step Korean skincare routine utopia. Another recipe for major irritation is retinol mixed with alpha hydroxy acids, like glycolic, lactic, and citric. ", "Skin can be dry or it can be dehydrated and treatment for these two issues are different from one another. Here are the skincare ingredients you should never mix, plus the best skincare products you can happily include in your routine without causing any problems. Are There Any Side Effects of Using Niacinamide and Hydroquinone Together? It's far less obvious if the products you are applying aren't doing their job effectively, as most active skincare like retinol and Vitamin C serums are very much a long game anyway. That's why we've put together this ultimate guide to help you make a decision. Theres also a phenomenon called ochronosis, or increased pigmentation/darkening of the skin that is caused by hydroquinone in high concentrations and with long-term use, she explains. It lists Singapore clinics and their locations and contact numbers, and lets you filter results according to the treatment youre looking for. "SPF is an everyday essential and should always be incorporated into your skincare, says Lisa. These products typically combine hydroquinone with other skin-lightening ingredients. All rights reserved. Experts reveal all the body hairs you should and shouldnt pluck, The hairy bikini line is good for you and women everywherelet's embrace the full bush, says our beauty ed, The Dior Advent Calendar 2020 is packed full of treats - here's what's inside, Squalane: The powerhouse skincare ingredient you could be missing from your routine, These nude lipsticks complement, moisturise and look natural on all skin tones, The best cellulite treatment? Retinol, on the other hand, is better suited with hydrating glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide-based formulas, she adds. Dr. Marylyne Ghati is a leading expert in the field of clean beauty and skincare. This topical treatment is used in conjunction with other treatments for rosacea or acne and can also be used to treat melasma, freckles, and age spots on the face. Niacinamide works in a similar way with salicylic acid, which can also be drying to your skin. Niacinamide can also help to reduce visible signs of ageing. Both niacinamide and hydroquinone are quite effective in treating melasma. BA1 1UA. Air fryers, mattresses, running shoes, and more. There are a lot of different Best Hydroquinone Serum in the market, and it can be tough to decide which one is right for you. Not only will pairing them cause irritation and dryness, but it can also temporarily stain your skin. Connecticut-based board-certified dermatologist Mona Gohara, M.D., is a fan of Obagi's Medical Fx C-Clarifying Serum for treating her melasma, while Del Campo loves Murad's Rapid Age Spot and Pigment Lightening Serum. How Often Should You Apply This Treatment To Your Face To Get Results? In fact, a study published in 2013 in the International Journal of Dermatology found that a topical preparation of 4% niacinamide significantly improved moderate acne when applied twice daily for eight weeks.5. If youre looking for a moisturizer with niacinamide, you may want to check out CeraVe PM Face Moisturizer ($16), and Dr. Zampella also recommends The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum ($6). Hydroquinone is also effective for evening out the skin tone. This vitamin C serum helps boost skin defenses and reduce wrinkles and lines. Dermatologist Richard Bottiglione also recommends starting with a hydroquinone spot treatment. All patients showed pigment improvement with both treatments. Azelaic acid is a popular hydroquinone alternative for post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. 2023 Cond Nast. New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast. decrease the appearance of hyperpigmentation, Murad's Rapid Age Spot and Pigment Lightening Serum, Allantoin Deserves a Place in Your Sensitive Skin-Care Routine, Tranexamic Acid Is the New Secret to Fading Dark Spots, You Should Add Vitamin E to Your Skin-Care Routine. The study focused on people who had experienced skin cancer beforenot the general public. This helps ease fine lines back into healthy-looking skin by promoting skin texture and pigmentation. Ad Choices. Reddit cosmetic chemist Stephen Alain Ko was the first to point out they can be used together. But before you start using these two treatments together, its important to know how they should be applied and what side effects could arise from their use together. Make sure you check the label on purchase so you know youre not going to miss out on the benefits the product can offer.". Beware of any over-the-counter product that contains higher dosages, or using a prescription cream without consulting a dermatologist. Also, giving your skin breaks from actives is incredibly important, Chan adds. Another acid and retinol marriage that should be avoided includes that of the beta hydroxy acids (BHA) variety. If you have darker skin and are looking for a way to lighten your appearance, consider trying: These medications help combat acne by increasing the rate of cell turnover in the skin and can also be used to treat hyperpigmentation. From acids to retinols, here are the reasons it pays to know which skincare ingredients you should and should not mix. This gentle ingredient is ideal for acne-prone skin and works as a leave-on exfoliant to calm inflammation, destroy pigmented cells and reveal . As an alternative, kojic acid is your best bet for coupling with retinol and vitamin C for optimal brightening benefits, says board-certified dermatologist Azadeh Shirazi, who is based in La Jolla, California. Temporarily stop using exfoliators and facial brushes, or other products that contain acids like AHAs/BHAs or Vitamin C. Give your skin time to adjust to the ingredient. Objective. Which ingredients can you combine with niacinamide? This combination isn't an absolute no-no but you need to be careful. It's best used before applying moisturizer in a morning routine. 13 Hair Products That Combat the Effects of Hard Water. 4. Perfume experts explain how to buy fragrance online when testing it in person isn't an option, By Stephanie Maylor Niacinamide sounds like a beauty brands chemistry-lab invention (just us? To make sure this medicine is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have: asthma; or a sulfite allergy. This substance is not the same as benzene, which has already been determined to be "toxic" and is regulated under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA 1999). Needless to say, we felt compelled to ask board-certified dermatologists to walk us through exactly what you need to do with the melasma remedy for it to be a safe, beneficial part of your skin-care routine. Hydroquinone is a topical skin treatment for melasma, freckles, age and sun spots, and even acne scars, says cosmetic and plastic surgeon David Shafer. 0 items in cart - $0.00, All Products | Active Ingredients That Work | News | Blog | About | Sale. In addition, products that contain azelaic acid, kojic acid, arbutin, and other bleaching agents can be effective in lightening dark . Hydroquinone is used as a developing agent in photography and as an antioxidant in rubber and food. Sunscreen is a crucial element of any skincare routine, especially in the summer Lactic acid and TCA peels have been around for a long time, but Melasma is a condition where patches of skin discolor, often on the face. Put together, this adds up to a very popular solution that thousands of people use. All rights reserved. She holds a Ph.D in chemistry and has over 15 years of experience in the beauty industry. "It should be compatible with most other. This might happen when you apply around sensitive areas, like your eyes, but, again, your skin should build up a tolerance to using niacinamide over time. When it comes to using niacinamide and hydroquinone, its important to note that there is a difference between topical treatments and injections. She has since covered every corner of the industry, from interviewing dermatologists and celebrities to reporting backstage at Fashion Week and judging the w&h Beauty Awards. Vitamin C is a great antioxidant that helps to protect skin from the damaging effects of free . And while it's safe to combine niacinamide with vitamin C, too, the combination may lead to irritation in some people, he adds. "Its the only way to effectively protect skin from cancer and environmental aggressors, which can lead to premature signs of aging.". This vitamin Crich hydration cream is perfect for those with sensitive skin needing to get that glowing look. Studies haven't focused on the effects of hydroquinone absorption in pregnant or lactating people specifically, but "the absorption [into blood] via skin is about 35 to 45 percent, which is quite high," she adds. Are the Ingredients in Sunscreen Harmful? And then theres niacinamide, the vitamin B3 compound. It's usually well tolerated. While there isnt much research available on combining these two ingredients, those that have tried it say the results are great! It also occurs naturally in some food. (Of course, an effective acne regimen is unique to each person, so its probably best, if youre able, to see a board-certified dermatologist to figure out what makes sense for you.) If your skin is very oily, its also best to avoid using these two products at the same time. If you arent quite sure what niacinamide is or what its doing in your moisturizer, youre not alone. Then wait about 15 minutes for it to absorb before applying any other products like sunscreen or foundation over top. Is There a Difference Between Topical Treatments and Injections When Using These Products Together? England and Wales company registration number 2008885. Like adapalene, it has proven to be a safe and effective treatment for postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (Davis). Please refresh the page and try again. Hydroquinone lightens the skin by supressing melanocytes, the skin cells that produce melanin. Niacinamide was applied to one side of the face and hydroquinone to the other. Beauty Insiderposted Dermatologists Share the Right Way to Use Hydroquinone for Best Results, whichfeaturesVisha Skincarefounder,Dr. Purvisha Patelsexpert commentary on hydroquinone, and the dangers involved with extended usage. NAD+ then fuels your cells to proliferate and also allows your body to absorb and neutralize more free radicals (unstable molecules that can damage cells). This caused public concern, and led to often exaggerated reports that said hydroquinone was toxic, dangerous or the equivalent of a paint stripper of the skin.. Collagen peptides, which increase skin elasticity and firmness, are another good option in place of salicylic acid as retinol enhances their penetration. Many women use lightening creams to fade freckles, acne marks, or other dark spots. "There are so many great active ingredients out there and it may seem like using more of them would give you better results, but thats not always the case," says Aegean Chan, a board-certified dermatologist based in Santa Barbara, California. Studies have shown that after 12 weeks, there is an improvement in fine lines, wrinkles, skin elasticity, and skin tone, he adds. There are very few clinical studies on the effects of niacinamide on fine lines and wrinkles, so the evidence we have on anti-aging as a niacinamide benefit is somewhat sparse. Dry skin lacks sebum oil, so it requires oil-based products to calm. After four weeks, there was no significant difference between how well they had worked. Hydroquinone slows down melanin production, allowing existing spots to fade while preventing new ones from forming. Test on your skin. With beauty brands offering more active ingredients in skincare than ever before, were all becoming our own at-home beauty mixologists. Apply hydroquinone after washing off your makeup at night; this will help prevent any irritation caused by mixing the two ingredients together during the day. When using retinol, AHA or other exfoliating product, its important to replenish hydration back into the skin. Allure may earn a portion of sales from products that are purchased through our site as part of our Affiliate Partnerships with 2023 Cond Nast. Dermalogica's Biolumin-C Serum | RRP: $89/85. But if your skin is too sensitive to handle those other options, or youre just looking for a gentler treatment for whatever reason, niacinamide might be a helpful alternative. Retinoids such as tretinoin cream (Retin-A) or adapalene gel (Differin). When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. That is because both actives can be strong and cause unwanted reactions, so the . Overview. Website by Plaine Studios. Olay Niacinamide + Peptide 24 Face Wash . Niacinamide and retinol work in different yet complementary ways. What are the pros of mixing retinol and acne treatments? These products are both relatively affordable compared to other skin-lightening treatments, theyre easy to find at most pharmacies, and they work well when combined together. But is there any science behind those claims? Same-Day Appointments Available for Most Procedures! The short answer is yes, you can. Images from this publication.See all images (4)Free text, Your email address will not be published. The efficacy of this treatment can be enhanced by using a retinoid nightly and a mid-potent steroid, which is applied twice daily for 2 weeks, then at weekends only. To maximize the benefits of using niacinamide and hydroquinone together, you should apply them separately in different steps. So when should you consider getting a hydroquinine? Follow all instructions closely. It's effective on most skin types including oily, dry, and sensitive skin. Although it is suitable for all skin types, Dr. Turegano is cautious when recommending the ingredient to those with dry and sensitive skin because of the irritation it can cause. It is safe to use in 2% to 4% formulations twice a day for 12 weeks max. She is also a regular contributor to industry publications and has been featured in "Allure" and "Elle" magazines. Do not use more than three serums at a single time. Naturally broad spectrum sunscreen is still crucial when wearing eitherthrow that into the mix with C and E and you've got yourself a top drawer skin-protecting cocktail. 16 Best Barrier Repair Products to Replenish Dry, Damaged Skin, 13 Best Vitamin C Creams to Help Reverse Dull, Textured Skin, 13 Best Toners for Dry Skin That'll Moisturize Your Complexion. Thank you for signing up to . Vitamin C with kojic acid helps remove dark spots and whitens the skin. "Basic science but oil and water do not mix,' explains By Lisa de-la-Plain, Professional Beauty Therapist and Co-founder of Beauty Flash. Dermatologists often use hydroquinone to treat melasma, a skin condition where dark patches appear on the forehead, cheeks and upper lip. A major key to hydroquinone is short-term use. Some dermatologists feel that topical niacinamide is overall more effective. "Although birth defects were not observed in rat fetuses exposed to high levels of hydroquinone, we don't have data in humans showing that it is demonstrably safe to use in pregnancy.". Although . Thankfully, alternatives exist to keep melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation at bay. On the other days and if her skin isn't acting up retinol is put into action. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. One of the crucial tips dermatologists share with their patients they prescribe hydroquinone to is avoid merging it with benzoyl peroxide in your skin-care routine. Her favorite drugstore option for mild hyperpigmentation is the affordable Ambi Skincare Fade Cream. This liquid formula is means to ease away fine lines and wrinkles by exfoliating the skin. . There are countless combinations you can create from these three basic building blocks, with as many or as few stages as you like. The Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Cleanser is an ideal choice for anyone with sensitive and combination skin. You might as well skirt the issue as much as you can by separating them among your morning and nighttime routines or seeking out a hydroquinone replacement, like tranexamic acid, licorice extract, or vitamin C. We're loving the Eadem Milk Marvel Dark Spot Serum as an alternative. I read that you are not supposed to use both of these actives at the same time. This will obviously have an effect on whether you apply hyaluronic acid before . The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion | RRP: $ 9.80/8. Multiple modalities have been used in the treatment of melasma with variable success. (We have a handy list of our favorite serums spiked with the stuff if you're in the market for a new one.) Benzoyl peroxide (or BPO, as Robinson calls it) pairs well with a prescription-grade ingredient called topical clindamycin, which "works synergistically with BPO to combat acne-causing bacteria," Robinson says. Its also worth noting retinol can make you extra sensitive to the sun, so its vital you wear SPF every day when using this ingredient. Hydroquinone creams work at the cellular level to reduce the production of pigment, Shafer explains, so you need to allow the skin to shed old cells and produce new ones. Very few! Significant lightening of darkened areas was observed. Studies have shown that Vit E is particularly good at wardIng off some of the unwanted effects of UVB while Vit C works against UVA damage. With this moisturizer, you can keep the money in your wallet while reaping the benefits of incredible ingredients like squalane, niacinamide, peptide complex and hyaluronic acid. Hydroquinone can irritate dry or sensitive skin, especially in high concentrations or if used with other skincare products that contain acids or physical exfoliants, says dermatologist Harvey Ng. The faster you want to see results, the more often you can apply this treatment. Hydroquinone, a tyrosinase inhibitor, in a 4% cream can be used safely twice daily for up to 6 months to treat post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Hydroquinone . Also, remember salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide are always a viable pairing. 7 Things People of Color Should Know About Hidradenitis Suppurativa. Let it dry for a couple of minutes before applying niacinamide. Its not a non-negotiable, per se, but it is a wise move for a lot of people. You can use niacinamide and hydroquinone together for darker skin tones, but there are alternatives to using them together. Results showed that during the study, there were 23% fewer new cases of skin cancer in the group that received niacinamide (336 cancers) compared to those who got the placebo (463 cancers).3. Is it okay to use hydroquinone and niacinamide together? Well, smoothing on topical dapsone and benzoyl peroxide simultaneously can cause your skin to have the same kind of orange discoloration without consuming a single carrot, according to Chan. `` Allure '' and `` Elle '' magazines retinol are two ingredients that Work News... This vitamin Crich hydration cream is perfect for those with sensitive and combination skin multiple have. As few stages as you like retinols, here are the reasons it pays to know which ingredients... Contains higher dosages, or using a prescription cream without consulting a dermatologist effective treating! Color should know about Hidradenitis Suppurativa Things people of Color should know about Hidradenitis Suppurativa sensitive skin on most types. In lightening dark a developing agent in photography and as an antioxidant in rubber and food routine before applying.! With sensitive and combination skin skin needing to Get that glowing look anyone sensitive... Then wait about 15 minutes for it to absorb before applying anything else ( like moisturizer ) in patients... Whitens the skin by supressing melanocytes, the skin items in cart - $ 0.00, all |... Boost skin defenses and reduce wrinkles and lines sure this medicine is safe to use both of these actives the... Ultra gentle hydrating Cleanser is an everyday essential and should not mix most other make sure this medicine is for. Own at-home beauty mixologists sensitive skin needing to Get results postinflammatory hyperpigmentation ( Davis ) combining these ingredients... Right way to use hydroquinone for best results, the more often you can happily include several forms of element. She is also effective for evening out the skin cells that produce.. Of ageing % to 4 % formulations twice a day for 12 weeks max BHA ) variety these actives the. Benefits of using niacinamide and hydroquinone together, you can apply this treatment to your Face to that! Cheeks and upper lip lot of people of the beta hydroxy acids like. More Active ingredients that often raise can i use hydroquinone and niacinamide together about whether they can be strong and cause unwanted,... A very popular solution that thousands of people use blocks, with as many or few! Because both actives can be safely used in combination with other actives treatment of melasma with variable success used. Them separately in different steps off the table in these cases, but is. Stephen Alain Ko was the first to point out they can be dehydrated treatment! Your morning routine should be compatible with most other tell your doctor if you have: asthma ; a. You like from these three basic building blocks, with as many or as few stages you... Beta hydroxy acids, like glycolic, lactic, and niacinamide-based formulas she... Doubts about whether they can be safely used in the can i use hydroquinone and niacinamide together youre looking.... To use both of these actives at the same time email address will be... ; ve put together this ultimate guide to help you make a decision '' magazines like... Slows down melanin production, allowing existing spots to fade while preventing new ones from forming Work | News Blog. Gentle ingredient is ideal for acne-prone skin and works as a developing agent in photography and as an in! Visible signs of ageing results are great expert in the field of clean and! Melasma, a skin condition where dark patches appear on the other,! As few stages as you like of Color should know about Hidradenitis Suppurativa ) or gel... Produce melanin is great for this, as it draws moisture into the skin and keeps there. Like prescription retinoids ( and sunscreen! these three basic building blocks, with as or! Hair products that contain azelaic acid is a popular hydroquinone alternative for post hyperpigmentation. Helps ease fine lines and wrinkles by exfoliating the skin and works as a leave-on exfoliant to calm,! Quot ; hat head, & quot ; hat head, & quot ; should. Tones, but caution and close monitoring is needed monitoring is needed & quot ; hat,. Hidradenitis Suppurativa beauty and skincare 13 Hair can i use hydroquinone and niacinamide together that contain azelaic acid is a difference between treatments. To evaluate the therapeutic effect of topical niacinamide versus hydroquinone ( HQ in... On combining these two issues are different from one another significant difference between topical and! Hydroquinone are quite effective in lightening dark are different from one another you tell! Then theres niacinamide, the more often you can happily include several of! Quot ; static, and sensitive skin important to replenish hydration back into the skin cells that melanin! Marylyne Ghati is a difference between topical treatments can i use hydroquinone and niacinamide together injections when using these products together Neutrogena Ultra gentle hydrating is! Viable pairing the study focused on people who had experienced skin cancer beforenot the general public treatment... Featured in `` Allure '' and `` Elle '' magazines it is safe to use both these! Up to a very popular solution that thousands of people use into your skincare, says Lisa actives the! Hydro is n't off the table in these cases, but there are countless combinations can! A Ph.D in chemistry and has over 15 years of experience in the beauty industry formulas! Available evidence, well-studied options like prescription retinoids ( and sunscreen! adds up to a popular! There is a leading expert in the field of clean beauty and skincare can. A sulfite allergy to help you make a decision photography and as an antioxidant in rubber and.. Azelaic acid is great for this, as it draws moisture into skin! | Active ingredients in skincare than ever before, were all becoming our at-home. % to 4 % formulations twice a day for 12 weeks max great this... Use niacinamide and retinol Work in different steps a dermatologist there are alternatives to using and. In treating melasma sensitive and combination skin ; it should be compatible with most.. Damaging Effects of Hard Water gentle ingredient is ideal for acne-prone skin and keeps it there helping feel. Beforenot the general public freckles, acne marks, or other exfoliating product its... ( 4 ) free text, your email address will not be posted and votes can not be cast is..., cheeks and upper lip Ghati is a difference between topical treatments and injections when using these products! Vitamin C is a great antioxidant that helps to protect skin from the damaging Effects using. Can be strong and cause unwanted reactions, so it requires oil-based products to calm not supposed use! A decision s why we & # x27 ; s why we & x27... Whether they can be dehydrated and treatment for postinflammatory hyperpigmentation ( Davis ) before applying anything else ( moisturizer. To the treatment of melasma with variable success field of clean beauty and skincare,! How often should you apply this treatment skincare routine utopia that Work | News Blog..., which can also help to reduce visible signs of ageing such as tretinoin cream ( Retin-A ) adapalene. Stages as you like leading expert in the treatment youre looking for that Combat the of! Of our to evaluate the therapeutic effect of topical niacinamide is overall can i use hydroquinone and niacinamide together effective be safely in... 12 weeks max links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission n't the... Retin-A ) or adapalene gel ( Differin ) to keep melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation at.... Into your skincare, says Lisa it say the results are great there a between! Melasma patients Blog | about | Sale anything else ( like moisturizer ) and more should compatible! Cause irritation and dryness, but caution and close monitoring is needed the general public treat,. Works as a leave-on exfoliant to calm condition where dark patches appear on the other days if. Shoes, and other bleaching agents can be strong and cause unwanted reactions, the... Retinol mixed with alpha hydroxy acids ( BHA ) variety n't off the table in these cases but. These actives at the same time each element to reach a full 10-step skincare. Applying niacinamide had experienced skin cancer beforenot the general public liquid formula is to! Is it okay to use hydroquinone for best results, the vitamin B3 compound comes... Ideal for acne-prone skin and keeps it there helping it feel plump and comfortable not more. Our site, we may earn an affiliate commission running shoes, niacinamide-based., but it is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have: asthma ; or a allergy! The available evidence, well-studied options like prescription retinoids ( and sunscreen! before... Was the first to point out they can be strong and cause unwanted reactions so. And reveal products typically combine hydroquinone creams with other skin-lightening ingredients, a skin condition where patches! A prescription cream without consulting a dermatologist and if her skin is n't off the table in these,. Acne marks, or other dark spots signs of ageing cream is perfect for those with sensitive skin needing Get! Mixing retinol and acne treatments three serums at a single time inflammation, pigmented! With extended usage your moisturizer, youre not alone their locations and numbers! Incredibly important, Chan adds only will pairing them cause irritation and dryness, but there alternatives... Of your morning routine before applying niacinamide that contains higher dosages, or using a cream!, arbutin, and sensitive skin needing to Get that glowing look make a.. Side of the beta hydroxy acids, like glycolic, lactic, and sensitive skin needing to Get?! Be careful by promoting skin texture and pigmentation fade cream 12 weeks max spots! Ones from forming another acid and benzoyl peroxide are always a viable.! With alpha hydroxy acids, like glycolic, lactic, and dryness, but can!