Skincare guide
Retinol and acids: how to combine them without wrecking your barrier
Why retinoids + AHA/BHA is considered risky, and how to structure a schedule that protects your skin while keeping results.
Why this combo is considered “risky”
Both retinoids and AHA/BHA acids increase cell turnover. In the right dose, that can smooth texture and even tone. In the wrong dose, it’s an easy path to irritation, peeling, and barrier damage.
Common mistakes
- Using an acid toner and retinol in the same night, every day.
- Adding scrubs, brushes, or harsh cleansers on top.
- Skipping moisturizer and daily SPF.
A safer principle: separate by time
A beginner-friendly approach:
- Retinol nights: gentle cleanse → moisturizer → retinol product.
- Acid nights: cleanse → acid toner/serum → soothing moisturizer.
- Daytime: gentle cleanse, moisturizer, SPF.
This way you still benefit from both actives, but you avoid maximum stress on the same day.
When you can be “more aggressive”
If your skin is resilient and you have long-term experience, a dermatologist may recommend a denser schedule. But it’s not something to copy from random social media routines.
How BeautyAI helps
BeautyAI analyzes your exact formulas: not only “retinol” and “AHA”, but also buffers, calming ingredients, and irritant boosters. It can show where your routine is overloaded and how to make it gentler.
Don’t experiment blindly: check your current routine first, then add new products gradually.
Check your products
If the article sounds like your routine, you don't need to change everything at once. Start by checking the products you are most unsure about.
Pro is best for users who check ingredients regularly, build Smart Care routines, and track progress — without hitting limits.