What skincare ingredients should I not mix?

There are certain ingredients that shouldn’t be mixed, either because they cancel each other out or they may lead to skin sensitivity. For example, retinol and AHAs/BHAs shouldn’t be mixed because both can increase skin sensitivity and irritation when used at the same time, especially if you’re new to actives. Retinol and benzoyl peroxide also shouldn’t be mixed, as benzoyl peroxide can change the molecular configuration of tretinoin, rendering it ineffective in your routine. Finally, while vitamin C and niacinamide both offer brightening benefits, when applied at the same time they can compete with each other and lead to skin irritation, especially if you have temperamental skin, to begin with. As far as retinol is concerned, it can safely be layered and mixed with hydration, ceramides, glycosaminoglycans, hyaluronic acid, and growth factors.

What type of skincare should I put in the fridge?

Word on the street is that popping your skincare products in the fridge provides refreshingly cool benefits. Though you should take into account the product formulation before chilling it. Certain active ingredients have different levels of stability, and most are stable at room temperature. Unless specified differently, it’s best to keep your products at room temperature, as even though it may feel calming and soothing when chilled, the lower temperatures may destabilise the active ingredients. So, what products can be placed in the fridge? Sheet masks, eye creams, toners, serums, and beauty tools. Chilled skincare is best for those with rosacea, dermatitis, eczema, acne, or other inflammatory skin conditions.

How do I avoid a whitecast with sunscreen?

Sunscreen whitecast occurs when a product’s formula contains titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. Darker skin tones may be more susceptible to whitecast, but a sure-fire way to combat this is to use a tinted mineral formula that contains shade-adjusting pigments that work to offset the white film. Also, you can look for an iron oxide component in the sunscreen formula, which cannot only protect your skin from environmental pollutants, but it can provide a tint that also hides the whitecast from titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.

How do you get rid of spots on your nose?

The key to treating acne is controlling the oil production and effectively removing dead skin. Look for cleansers which are non-foaming as these will stimulate oil production and ensure that your makeup is non-comedogenic as this will allow your skin to breathe and will help prevent your pores becoming blocked.