Proper skincare is crucial for maintaining health and beauty. However, individuals using medications for skin problems such as acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis must be particularly cautious when combining cosmetic products.
An improper combination can lead to:
- Irritation
- Dryness
- Weakened skin barrier function
- Reduced effectiveness of therapy.
Ana Lovrinčević, Master of Pharmacy, an expert in drug-cosmetic interactions, explains how to safely combine cosmetic products with therapeutic medications to achieve the best results without side effects.
Prescription Skincare and Its Application
Prescription skincare includes products and medications prescribed by dermatologists to treat specific conditions.
These products usually contain more active substances than those available over the counter and work deeper within the skin.
Most Commonly Prescribed Medications for Skin Diseases
For acne: benzoyl peroxide, retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene), azelaic acid, antibiotics (clindamycin, erythromycin), and isotretinoin.
For rosacea: metronidazole, ivermectin, azelaic acid, and brimonidine.
For eczema and psoriasis: corticosteroid creams, tacrolimus, pimecrolimus.
When using these medications, it is important to adjust your skincare routine to avoid side effects.
How to Properly Combine Cosmetics and Therapeutic Medications?
Many medications for skin diseases can cause:
- Sensitivity
- Dryness
- Irritation.
That’s why it’s essential to choose gentle and compatible cosmetic products.
Benzoyl Peroxide and Retinol - Avoid Simultaneous Use
Benzoyl peroxide is a powerful antibacterial ingredient that can reduce the effectiveness of retinoids like tretinoin.
Also, combining these two ingredients can cause strong irritation.
It’s recommended to use benzoyl peroxide in the morning and retinoids in the evening.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA – glycolic, lactic) and Retinoids – Possible Irritation
Both ingredients accelerate exfoliation (removal of dead skin cells – peeling).
Using them together can lead to excessive sensitivity and redness.
It’s recommended to use AHA acids on days when you are not using retinoids.
Vitamin C and Retinol – Possible Irritation
Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant that is best applied in the morning, while retinol is recommended for use in the evening.
Azelaic Acid – Safe, But With Caution
Azelaic acid is gentle and compatible with many active ingredients, but it can cause sensitivity in some people.
It’s recommended to introduce it into your routine gradually and avoid using it simultaneously with other acids.
Hydration and Skin Barrier Function
Acne and rosacea medications often dry out the skin, making hydration key.
Choose gentle moisturizing creams without irritants (fragrances, alcohol) and with ceramides to strengthen the skin barrier. Ceramides help retain moisture and prevent its loss.
Tips for Safe Use of Cosmetics Alongside Therapy
It is recommended to introduce one new product at a time to monitor skin reactions.
Also, wait 20-30 minutes between applying active ingredients to reduce potential irritation.
It is crucial not to mix multiple aggressive ingredients at the same time (e.g., retinol, AHA, benzoyl peroxide).
It’s essential to use a high SPF, as acne and rosacea medications increase sensitivity to the sun.
Conclusion
Combining medications and cosmetic products can be challenging, but with the right approach, optimal results can be achieved without side effects.
It’s important to:
- Properly space out the use of active ingredients
- Stay hydrated
- Protect your skin from the sun.
If you’re unsure how to combine certain products, consult with a dermatologist or pharmacist to avoid irritation and achieve healthy, balanced skin.
Ana Lovrinčević, Master of Pharmacy, graduated from the Faculty of Pharmaceutical and Biochemical Sciences in Zagreb. She works in a public pharmacy and is the author of the portal Farmaceut.hr.
She specializes in topics such as disease prevention, healthy living and nutrition, medicinal herbs, drug interactions, cosmetics, and mental health.
She has experience in teaching, presentations, and writing professional articles.