Lactic Acid (AHA)
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
How to Layer These Actives in Your Routine
Lactic Acid (AHA)
Apply first to clean, dry skin. Operates at pH 3.4–4.
Allows cutaneous acid mantle to equilibrate before the next step.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Layer over the initial active. Operates at pH 5–6.5.
Biochemical Mechanism & Pharmacology
Lactic Acid (AHA) and Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) operate via distinct physiological mechanisms without reactive cross-oxidation or competing receptor antagonisms. They can be safely integrated into the same routine when sequenced properly from thinnest to thickest consistency.
Apply Lactic Acid (AHA) (pH 3.4–4, Viscosity Tier 2) first. Allow 10 minutes for cutaneous pH equilibration before applying Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) (pH 5–6.5, Viscosity Tier 2).
Recommended 7-Day Routine Blueprint
| Morning (AM) Routine | Evening (Night A) | Evening (Night B) |
|---|---|---|
✓Gentle Cleanser ✓Lactic Acid (AHA) ✓Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+ | •Lactic Acid (AHA) •Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) •Barrier Cream | •Lactic Acid (AHA) •Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) •Barrier Cream |
Obstetric & Pregnancy Safety Summary
View Full Pregnancy Directory →Lactic Acid (AHA) is classified as PERMITTED during pregnancy, while Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is classified as PERMITTED under clinical guidelines. Always cross-reference with your physician if expecting.