Can I Use Niacinamide After AHA BHA Peel? Safe Skincare Practices

Chemical peels are a skincare solution that have gained popularity for their ability to provide deep exfoliation, resulting in brighter, smoother skin. But proper post-peel care is key to keeping a healthy skin barrier intact so you don't end up with unwanted irritation. One of the most frequent questions for skin care buffs is: "Can I use niacinamide after AHA BHA peel?"

Given that both niacinamide and exfoliating acids are incredibly active ingredients offering skin benefits in their own right, knowing how and when to use them together is crucial to an effective skincare routine. In this article, we discuss if niacinamide can be used right after an AHA BHA peel, what benefits you could expect during this regimen, and the best way to use niacinamide for maximum effect.

Can I use niacinamide after AHA BHA peel?

The answer to the query, ‘Can I use niacinamide serum after AHA BHA peel?' is yes. But timing is key. Niacinamide is well-known for being soothing on skin and helping repair the barrier, so to re-introduce it immediately after a chemical peel means the skin will show signs of irritation, redness, and sensitivity. It's better to give your skin some time before adding niacinamide to the routine (give it 12 to 24 hours to recuperate before incorporating it into your routine).

How AHA (glycolic, lactic) and BHA (salicylic acid) work on the skin

AHA vs BHA are both exfoliants, but they do different things -

• AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid): Water-soluble acids that exfoliate the external skin to improve its texture, decrease fine lines, and improve hydration.
• BHAs (salicylic acid): These are oil-soluble acids that can penetrate deep inside the pores and help in the removal of excess oil and debris, making them perfect for acne-prone and oily skin types.

These two acids combined make AHA BHA peels, which provide a multi-faceted exfoliation to reveal a clearer, smoother, and more radiant complexion. But, since these acids compromise the skin barrier, chemical peel aftercare is key to avoiding irritation and keeping the skin healthy.

The role of niacinamide in skin repair and hydration

Niacinamide, also known as Vitamin B3, is a powerhouse ingredient known for its multiple skin benefits:

• Strengthens the skin barrier: Helps restore and fortify the skin after exfoliation.
  
  
• Reduces inflammation: Soothes redness and irritation, making it perfect post-peel.
  
  
• Balances oil production: Controls excess sebum, reducing breakouts.
  
  
• Boosts hydration: Improves moisture retention, preventing dryness after a peel.
  
  
• Fades hyperpigmentation: Helps even out skin tone and brighten the complexion.
  
  

Potential benefits of using niacinamide after exfoliation

Proper application of niacinamide serum post-AHA BHA peel would really boost skin recovery. It helps to calm redness, restore lost hydration and protect the skin barrier, helping your skin to heal better.

Should you apply niacinamide immediately after a peel?

The skin is left in a vulnerable condition after using an AHA BHA peel. The top layer of dead skin cells is removed, revealing fresh, vulnerable skin underneath. This means the skin is more prone to redness, irritation, and sensitivity.

Potential skin reactions (redness, irritation, sensitivity)

So, does niacinamide cause purging? Though niacinamide will not cause purging, applying it too soon after a peel can result in temporary discomfort like tingling and mild irritation. This is because skin that has just been exfoliated is more sensitive.

The danger of applying niacinamide immediately after a peel

The niacinamide may be too much if you apply it right after an AHA BHA peel. Since both of these ingredients affect pH levels and the skin's hydration levels, applying the two together in tandem too soon can lead to barrier disruption, increased sensitivity, and redness.

Best way to use niacinamide after AHA BHA peel

To maximise the benefits while minimising irritation, follow this step-by-step approach:

1. Right after peel: Hydrate and protect

• Avoid active ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C, or retinol.
  
  
• Apply a gentle gel moisturiser, which contains hyaluronic acid and saccharide isomerate, to deeply hydrate and soothe the skin.
  
  
• Use dewy sunscreen to protect against sun damage, as exfoliated skin is highly sensitive to UV exposure.

2. After 12-24 hours: Introduce niacinamide gradually

• Once the skin has calmed down, apply a niacinamide serum, which includes green tea and liquorice extract, to soothe, brighten, and refine pores.
  
  
• Follow up with a hydrating moisturiser to lock in the benefits.

3. Follow up: Daily SPF protection

• Always apply Dewy Hydrating Hybrid Sunscreen SPF 50+ in the morning to prevent sun sensitivity and hyperpigmentation after a peel.

Alternatives to niacinamide after a peel

If your skin is too sensitive for niacinamide after an AHA BHA peel, several alternative ingredients can help soothe and restore your skin without causing irritation. Ceramides play a crucial role in repairing the skin barrier, replenishing lost moisture, and preventing excessive dryness or peeling.

Aloe vera is well-known for its calming and hydrating properties, reducing redness and irritation while promoting skin recovery. Centella asiatica, often used in K-beauty products, is a powerhouse anti-inflammatory that accelerates healing, soothes sensitivity, and strengthens the skin against environmental aggressors. These ingredients provide deep nourishment, ensuring a healthy recovery after exfoliation.

When to avoid niacinamide after a strong peel

If you've used a high-strength chemical peel, your skin may require 48-72 hours to recover before introducing niacinamide. Always listen to your skin-if you experience excessive redness, stinging, or discomfort, delay its use.

Conclusion

So, can you apply niacinamide after an AHA BHA peel? Yes, but timing is crucial. Wait 12-24 hours before introducing niacinamide to avoid irritation and maximise its soothing benefits. Proper chemical peel aftercare, including hydration, SPF protection, and a gradual introduction of niacinamide, ensures a smooth, radiant complexion without compromising skin health.

FAQs

Can niacinamide cause irritation after AHA BHA peel?

Niacinamide is generally soothing, but applying it immediately after a peel may cause mild irritation due to the skin's increased sensitivity.

How long should I wait before applying niacinamide?

Wait 12-24 hours before applying niacinamide after an AHA BHA peel to prevent irritation.

What should I apply first, niacinamide or moisturiser?

Apply niacinamide serum first, then seal it with a moisturiser like Waterlight Gel Moisturiser 72 Hour Hydration for maximum hydration.

Can I use niacinamide and zinc after the ordinary peeling solution?

It's best to wait at least 12 hours before applying niacinamide and zinc to avoid overloading your skin.

What happens if I use niacinamide immediately after a peel?

Applying niacinamide too soon may cause redness, tingling, and irritation as the skin is in a vulnerable state post-exfoliation.