How to Use Niacinamide and Alpha-Arbutin
When layering skincare ingredients, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you reap the benefits of this cocktail. It’s generally considered a good idea to combine an active ingredient like alpha-arbutin with niacinamide, as the moisturizing effects ensure that any dryness or irritation issues are addressed.
If you’re still a little confused about how to use niacinamide and alpha arbutin, don’t panic because we’re here to clear things up, but before we get into the science, let’s take a quick look at both ingredients and their benefits for the skin.
What is Alpha Arbutin?
It occurs naturally and is extracted from the dried leaves of plants like blueberry, bearberry, and cranberry. It can achieve impressive skin whitening and complexion brightening results. This works by attacking the cells in the lower layers of the skin that are responsible for producing melanin, helping to lighten pigmentation and dark spots. Alpha-arbutin prevents pigmentation from darkening thanks to its structure and ability to bind to tyrosinase, catalyzing the synthesis of melanin.
Fortunately, given the effectiveness of alpha-arbutin, it combines well with niacinamide to provide fast results and improve the overall appearance of the skin.
What does Niacinamide do for the skin?
I feel like I’ve explained what Niacinamide is a few times here already, so I’ll quickly go over some of its key skin benefits now.
The right amount of water and oil helps keep the skin barrier fully functioning, allowing it to protect itself from daily free radical damage.
Helps reduce the appearance of pores, fine lines, and wrinkles
Can regulate the skin’s natural sebum production
May help reduce signs of hyperpigmentation, dark spots, uneven skin tone, and melasma
These are the main benefits of Niacinamide, but if you want to learn more, you can read our blog post on using Niacinamide on your face.
Which came first, Alpha-Arbutin or Niacinamide?
When using skincare products containing both Alpha-Arbutin and Niacinamide, it’s recommended to use Alpha-Arbutin first, as it’s more effective and, like many powerful skincare ingredients, can cause skin irritation and dryness as a side effect. In this case, Niacinamide can intervene and restore the balance of its moisturizing properties by drawing moisture into the lower layers of the skin and holding it there. If Niacinamide can keep your complexion plump and youthful, you might find that Alpha-Arbutin can even out your skin tone and provide even skin.
Can Arbutin and Niacinamide be used together?
Yes, absolutely, as I have already described, Alpha-Arbutin and Niacinamide are a perfect combination for flawless skin. Both ingredients are water-based and are generally formulated to feel light on the skin. Niacinamide not only helps restore moisture to the skin, but it also boosts collagen production. Combined with the skin-brightening benefits of Alpha Arbutin, you will find that the accumulated dead skin cells are sloughed off, leaving your skin looking healthier, happier, and tighter.
Can I use Hyaluronic Acid with Niacinamide and Alpha-Arbutin?
Since both Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide are gentle on the skin, I can’t blame you if you use both and want to combine them with an Alpha Arbutin product. If it works for your skin, go ahead and use it. Personally, I believe that combining two complementary serums gives you the best results. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t use all of these products in your daily skincare routine. All you have to do is use them at different times of the day. For example, combining hyaluronic acid and alpha-arbutin in your morning routine can moisturize your skin while also eliminating dark spots. Of course, don’t forget your daily SPF. Then, you can hit the reset button and apply niacinamide at night to regulate oil production and maintain the radiant glow you’ve achieved.
What Not to Mix with Alpha Arbutin?
As effective an ingredient as alpha-arbutin is, it’s generally considered safe for the skin when combined with other ingredients. Just be mindful of the number of active ingredients in your skincare routine to maintain. Too many active ingredients can be too powerful for the skin and often compete with each other, rendering them useless.
When combining alpha-arbutin with niacinamide, vitamin C should not be mixed with vitamin C, as they both produce similar results on the skin, causing them to cancel each other out and reduce their efficacy and performance on the skin.
How long can I use alpha arbutin for?
Although I’ve explained that the effects of alpha-arbutin may cause increased skin irritation in some people, it’s surprisingly gentle on the skin. Using arbutin twice daily after cleansing can help build skin tolerance, and combine this powerful ingredient with other ingredients like retinol or even chemical peels. It’s best to consult a doctor or dermatologist to make sure you can use these ingredients in your daily routine.
You may be surprised to learn that arbutin is found in many skincare products on the market, from serums to moisturizers to nighttime masks. Depending on the formulation will determine how effective the percentage of arbutin in the mix is. Serums and moisturizers with higher concentrations may cause skin sensitivity in some people if used improperly on skin that has not been patch tested for 24 hours.
Can I use a moisturizer after using alpha-arbutin?
You actually can! Using a moisturizer after alpha-arbutin (especially if it contains niacinamide) will not only keep your skin barrier healthy and protected, but it will also help the arbutin reach the areas where it’s needed, rejuvenating and balancing your skin tone.
Can I use alpha-arbutin every day?
Yes, you can use Alpha Arbutin daily, depending on your skin sensitivity and whether you have built up a tolerance to the ingredient. After that, you can apply Alpha Arbutin twice daily if needed. Just make sure to discontinue use after 3 months to give your skin a break while preventing further long-term damage.
Does Alpha Arbutin Darken the Skin?
Not at all, in fact, it is known to lighten dark areas caused by sun damage and hyperpigmentation. What makes Alpha Arbutin different from other acids is that it can be safely used on all skin tones without the worry that the ingredient will over-brighten your skin and give you an uneven overall tone.
So there is a little more information to know about Alpha Arbutin, and this little-known skin secret can be used in conjunction with Niacinamide. Don’t forget to find me on the Procoal Instagram account if you have any questions, so follow us. And if you love skin, check out our YouTube channel The Green Sofa!
