The pairs to separate, and the ones that are fine together.
01 / 06
Keep retinoids and AHAs or BHAs on different nights to cut dryness, peeling and irritation.
02 / 06
Use benzoyl peroxide in the AM and retinoids at night, unless a dermatologist prescribes them together.
03 / 06
Use vitamin C in the morning, away from exfoliating acids, benzoyl peroxide and copper peptides.
04 / 06
This pair suits most people. Only separate them if your skin flushes.
05 / 06
Layer water-based products before creams and oils. Sunscreen is always the last step in the morning.
06 / 06
Add one new active and wait two to four weeks before the next, so you know what caused any reaction.
Skincare Ingredients You Should Not Mix (and What You Can) (2026)