🩷 Hey Babe, Free Shipping on $75+ Orders in US. 🩷
Mixing Actives: What Pairs Well with Collagen & Retinol—You Can and Can’t Layer

Mixing Actives: What Pairs Well with Collagen & Retinol—You Can and Can’t Layer

Retinol 101: The Star of Your Routine

Retinol is one of the most powerful skincare ingredients you can add to your regimen. It boosts collagen, refines skin texture, reduces fine lines, and evens tone. That’s why our Collagen & Retinol Serum is such a game-changer—it combines retinol with hydrating, soothing actives so even sensitive skin can enjoy the benefits.

But here’s the catch: not every skincare ingredient plays nicely with retinol. To get glowing results (without irritation), you need to know which actives you can pair—and which to avoid.


The Perfect Pairings: What Works Well with Retinol

Niacinamide – A powerhouse for calming redness and strengthening the skin barrier. Paired with retinol, it helps minimize irritation while boosting brightness.

Hyaluronic Acid – Hydration is non-negotiable when using retinol. Hyaluronic acid locks in moisture, keeping skin plump and balanced.

Collagen – Our serum includes collagen for extra support, helping to restore elasticity and firmness.

Peptides – Like collagen, peptides encourage skin to stay bouncy and youthful. Together, they’re a skin-firming dream team.

Ceramides – These barrier-strengthening lipids help seal in hydration and reduce sensitivity when using retinol.


Proceed with Caution: Ingredients to Use Separately

⚠️ Vitamin C – Both retinol and vitamin C are powerful antioxidants, but they can cause irritation when layered in the same routine. The best trick? Use Vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night for maximum glow.

⚠️ AHAs & BHAs (like glycolic or salicylic acid) – These exfoliants plus retinol can be too intense when layered, leading to dryness or redness. Instead, alternate nights.

⚠️ Benzoyl Peroxide – Often used for acne, but it can deactivate retinol and cause irritation. Keep them separate or talk with a dermatologist for a tailored plan.


How to Layer Bonjour Babe Beauty’s Collagen & Retinol Serum

  1. Nighttime Only → Retinol is photosensitive, so always use at night.

  2. Cleanse Gently → Avoid harsh scrubs before retinol.

  3. Apply Serum → Use 1–2 pumps of our Collagen & Retinol Serum.

  4. Moisturize → Lock in hydration with a nourishing cream.

  5. SPF Daily → Never skip sunscreen the next day—retinol makes your skin more sun-sensitive.


Sensitive Skin Tip: Keep It Simple

If your skin is on the sensitive side, avoid overloading your routine. Stick to a gentle cleanser, our Collagen & Retinol Serum, a hydrating moisturizer, and SPF. Once your skin adjusts, you can slowly introduce other actives like niacinamide or peptides.


The Takeaway

When it comes to retinol skincare layering, the rule is simple: hydrate, protect, and avoid doubling up on strong exfoliants. With the right pairings, your Bonjour Babe Beauty Collagen & Retinol Serum can transform your skin—smoothing, firming, and leaving you glowing without irritation.

✨ Ready to glow smarter, not harsher? Shop the Collagen & Retinol Serum today and start building your perfect routine.

Previous post
Next post
Back to Hot Tips & Glossy Tricks