What is the Ingredient Deep Dive Series? Understanding what goes into your skincare products is just as important as how you use them. In today’s beauty world, ingredients like niacinamide, bakuchiol, and peptides are creating real buzz, not because of trends, but because of their proven results. As a dermatologist, I often get asked: Which ingredient should I start with? Can I use them together? This guide breaks it all down for you, backed by science, simplified for everyday skin routines.

Each of these powerhouse ingredients serves a unique purpose. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is your multitasker, soothing irritation, reducing dark spots, and balancing oil. Bakuchiol, often referred to as the natural alternative to retinol, helps boost collagen and smooth fine lines without irritation. And Peptides? They’re the building blocks that strengthen your skin barrier and keep your complexion firm and youthful.

In this deep dive, we’ll explore how each ingredient works, who should use them, and how to layer them correctly. You’ll also discover dermatologist-approved product recommendations from Amazon that deliver visible results without breaking your budget.

Whether you’re a skincare beginner or a seasoned enthusiast, understanding these three ingredients will transform the way you build your routine. So, let’s take a closer look at the science behind them and how to make them work for your skin, not against it.

What Is the Ingredient Deep Dive Series?

The Ingredient Deep Dive Series is a dermatologist-guided exploration into the most effective skincare ingredients backed by science and real results. It’s designed to help readers understand what’s inside their skincare products, not just trendy terms, but the real mechanisms that improve skin health, texture, and appearance.

Each part of the series breaks down one powerful ingredient at a time, explaining its benefits, ideal concentrations, compatible actives, and how to use it effectively in your daily routine. Whether you’re a skincare beginner or an enthusiast, this series gives you clear, practical insights you can apply immediately.

By focusing on evidence-based ingredients like Niacinamide, Bakuchiol, and Peptides, the Ingredient Deep Dive Series empowers you to make informed skincare choices. It bridges the gap between dermatology expertise and everyday routines, helping you achieve radiant, healthy skin with confidence.

What Is Niacinamide and How Does It Work?

Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide, is a water-soluble form of Vitamin B3 that has become one of the most dermatologist-recommended ingredients in skincare. What makes it special is its ability to address multiple skin concerns at once without causing irritation.

When applied topically, niacinamide works deep within the skin to strengthen the skin barrier, largely by supporting the production of ceramides, natural lipids that keep the skin hydrated and resilient. It also helps balance oil (sebum) production, which makes it suitable for both oily and combination skin types.

Beyond hydration and oil control, niacinamide has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. It calms redness, soothes irritation, and reduces the appearance of acne-related blemishes. Another standout feature is its ability to reduce hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanin transfer between skin cells, resulting in a brighter, more even tone.

On a cellular level, niacinamide boosts energy metabolism by enhancing NAD⁺ and NADP⁺ activity, key molecules that support skin repair, renewal, and overall resilience. In simpler terms, it helps your skin function better, heal faster, and age more gracefully.

Dermatologist-Approved Benefits of Niacinamide

If there’s one ingredient that truly deserves a permanent place in your skincare routine, it’s niacinamide. From calming redness to brightening dull skin, this powerhouse vitamin works at multiple levels to improve both the look and health of your complexion. Here are some of the most dermatologist-backed benefits:

1. Strengthens the Skin Barrier

Your skin barrier is the first line of defence against pollution, UV rays, and moisture loss. Niacinamide enhances the production of ceramides, the lipids that keep your skin hydrated and strong. A healthy barrier means less dryness, flakiness, and sensitivity.

2. Reduces Inflammation and Redness

For anyone dealing with acne, rosacea, or general irritation, niacinamide acts like a soothing shield. It calms inflammatory responses within the skin, helping reduce redness and discomfort over time.

3. Balances Oil Production

Oily or combination skin types benefit greatly from niacinamide’s ability to regulate sebum production. Instead of stripping your skin of oils, it balances them, keeping your complexion clear and shine-free without dryness.

4. Fades Dark Spots and Hyperpigmentation

Niacinamide interferes with melanosome transfer, the process that moves pigment between skin cells. With consistent use, this helps fade dark spots, acne scars, and uneven tone, revealing a brighter, more radiant complexion.

5. Minimises Pores and Refines Texture

By balancing oil and improving elasticity, niacinamide helps make pores appear smaller and smoother. Many users notice an overall improvement in texture within just a few weeks.

6. Boosts Skin Repair and Resilience

Niacinamide supports the production of NAD⁺, a key molecule in energy metabolism that keeps skin cells functioning optimally. This translates to better repair, faster recovery from damage, and enhanced resistance to environmental stress.

7. Anti-Aging Support

While not a traditional anti-aging ingredient like retinol, niacinamide plays a significant role in reducing fine lines and improving firmness by maintaining hydration and promoting collagen stability.

Ingredient deep dive: five free formulas, STEARIC ACID for skin care

Best Concentrations & Formulation Notes

Getting the most out of niacinamide depends not only on how you use it, but also on the concentration and formulation. As a dermatologist, I always remind patients that higher percentages don’t always mean better results. Balance is key to healthy, glowing skin.

Recommended Concentrations

Most skincare products contain niacinamide at a concentration of 2% to 5%, which is an ideal range for daily use. Clinical studies support these concentrations for regulating oil, promoting barrier repair, and enhancing skin brightness. For targeting stubborn dark spots or dullness, 4% niacinamide is often used in dermatology research with a visible pigment concentration of 2% to improve.

Some advanced serums feature 10% niacinamide for a stronger, booster-like effect. While these higher concentrations can deliver faster results, they may also trigger mild irritation in sensitive skin types. If you’re new to niacinamide, start with a lower percentage and increase gradually as your skin builds tolerance.

Ideal Formulations & Textures

Niacinamide is water-soluble, which makes it an incredibly versatile ingredient. You’ll find it in lightweight serums, toners, gel-based moisturisers, and lotions that absorb easily into the skin. It performs beautifully when paired with humectants like hyaluronic acid and barrier lipids (such as ceramides), enhancing both hydration and skin comfort.

Stability & Compatibility

Niacinamide is chemically stable across a wide pH range, meaning it stays effective in most well-formulated skincare products. Modern cosmetic science has also dispelled the old myth that niacinamide is incompatible with Vitamin C. Current formulations allow these two ingredients to coexist safely when layered correctly (we’ll cover this in the layering section below).

In short, a thoughtfully formulated niacinamide product can easily fit into any skincare routine, gentle enough for daily use, and powerful enough to transform skin clarity and resilience over time.

Step-by-Step Niacinamide Skincare Routines

Niacinamide is one of the most versatile ingredients in skincare, gentle enough for everyday use, yet powerful enough to make a visible difference. Whether you’re targeting oiliness, dark spots, or dullness, this ingredient can fit easily into both your morning and evening routines.

Quick Rules for Using Niacinamide

• Frequency: Niacinamide is gentle and can be applied once or twice daily (AM and/or PM).
  
• Layering: Always apply it after water-based products (like toners or essences) and before heavier creams or oils.
  
• Compatibility: If you use Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) in your morning routine, apply Vitamin C first. Wait 30–60 seconds, then follow with niacinamide. Modern dermatology research confirms this combination is safe and effective.
  
• Consistency: Regular use is key. Results build gradually over a few weeks with consistent application.
  

Morning Routine (Best for Oily or Blemish-Prone Skin)

A simple, dermatologist-recommended morning routine featuring niacinamide:

1. Cleanser: Begin with a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser to gently remove oil and impurities.
   
2. Toner or Hydrating Essence (optional): Apply a light hydrating mist or essence if your skin feels tight or dry.
   
3. Niacinamide Serum (2–10%): Apply 3–5 drops of serum and gently pat into the skin.
   
   • Tip: If you’re new to actives, start with once daily or every other day.
     
4. Moisturiser (lightweight): Opt for a non-comedogenic formula to seal in hydration without clogging pores.
   
5. Sunscreen (SPF 30+): Always finish with sunscreen. Niacinamide doesn’t cause photosensitivity, but UV protection is essential for bright, healthy skin.
   

Dermatologist Tip: Look for niacinamide serums, such as The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% or CeraVe PM Facial Moisturising Lotion, which combine soothing hydration with barrier support.

Evening Routine (For Pigmentation & Skin Repair)

Nighttime is when your skin regenerates, making niacinamide a perfect companion for repairing, brightening, and strengthening.

Cleanser: Use a gentle cleanser or double cleanse if you’ve worn makeup or sunscreen.

Toner / Hydrating Layer (optional): Replenish moisture before applying active ingredients.

Niacinamide Serum (2–4%): Apply as above. Clinical studies have shown that 4% niacinamide can visibly improve melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) with consistent nightly use.

Targeted Treatments: If you use retinoids, apply them after niacinamide. The combination helps reduce irritation and enhances results.

Moisturiser or Occlusive: Finish with a nourishing cream or sleeping mask to seal in moisture overnight.

Dermatologist Insight:

Niacinamide is one of the few actives that can be used in conjunction with most other skincare ingredients, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced users. It supports the skin’s barrier, balances oil, and complements stronger treatments, such as retinol or exfoliating acids.

Layering Niacinamide with Other Active Ingredients

One of the reasons dermatologists love niacinamide is its remarkable compatibility. Unlike many active ingredients that can clash or irritate the skin, niacinamide plays well with almost everyone. When layered properly, it enhances results and minimises sensitivity, making it a powerful team player in any skincare routine.

Here’s how niacinamide pairs with other popular actives:

Niacinamide + Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid)

For years, the skincare world avoided combining these two actives due to a theoretical reaction that could convert niacinamide into niacin, potentially causing redness. However, modern research and cosmetic chemistry have shown that this concern was overstated.

Today, dermatologists and formulators confirm that niacinamide and vitamin C are safe to use together. In fact, when layered correctly, they can boost each other’s brightening and antioxidant benefits.

How to layer:

1. Apply Vitamin C first (it works best in a lower pH environment).
   
2. Wait 30–60 seconds for the absorption to occur.
   
3. Follow with your niacinamide serum.
   

Pro Tip: This combo works wonders for dullness, uneven tone, and early signs of aging.

Niacinamide + Retinoids

This duo is a dermatologist’s favourite. While retinoids (like retinol or tretinoin) accelerate cell turnover and boost collagen, they can also cause dryness or irritation. That’s where niacinamide shines. It strengthens the skin barrier, making retinoid use more tolerable.

You can either:

• Layer them together (apply niacinamide first, then retinoid), or
  
• Alternate nights if you have sensitive skin.
  

Dermatologist Insight: Using niacinamide alongside retinoids helps reduce redness, peeling, and discomfort, allowing you to enjoy retinol’s benefits without the common side effects.

Niacinamide + AHAs/BHAs

Niacinamide pairs safely with chemical exfoliants such as glycolic acid (AHA) or salicylic acid (BHA). Together, they refine texture, unclog pores, and enhance skin radiance.

If your skin feels sensitive or tingly, try staggering their use. Apply acids in the evening and niacinamide in the morning, or use them on alternate nights.

Niacinamide + Azelaic Acid or Hydroquinone

This is a dermatologist-approved combination, particularly suitable for treating melasma and other pigmentation disorders. Niacinamide boosts skin tolerance and complements the brightening effects of azelaic acid or hydroquinone.

However, these are potent ingredients, so it’s best to:

• Start slowly, and
  
• Perform a patch test first to ensure your skin tolerates the product comfortably.
  

Professional Tip: Always use sunscreen when using any pigmentation treatments to prevent recurrence.

Niacinamide is one of the most flexible and forgiving skincare actives. Whether paired with vitamin C, retinoids, or exfoliating acids, it strengthens your skin’s barrier and enhances the results of your entire routine, all while minimising irritation.

Side effects & who should be cautious

• Generally well tolerated. Mild stinging or redness may occur at higher concentrations (8–10%) or in individuals with sensitive skin. Start low and increase frequency.
  
• Patch test new formulations if you have particularly sensitive or reactive skin.
  
• Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Niacinamide is considered safe topically, but when in doubt, consult a healthcare provider.
  

Product picks (examples readers will recognise)

• The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% widely used, affordable niacinamide serum (suits oily/combination skin).
  
• Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster higher-strength booster format for mixing with serums/creams.
  

(Note: adapt product suggestions to affiliate/availability rules; search Amazon/local retailers for current pricing/stock before adding direct affiliate links.)

Image suggestions (in-article)

• Hero banner: close-up of model applying a blue-tinted serum dropper to cheek (alt: “Woman applying niacinamide serum to face for brighter skin”).
  
• Infographic: “Niacinamide at a glance” benefits, recommended concentrations (2–4%), dos & don’ts.
  
• Before/After mockup placeholder (use only if you have permission/consent).
  

Niacinamide — FAQs (short)

Q: Can I use niacinamide with retinol?
A: Yes, they are compatible; niacinamide may reduce retinoid irritation.

Q: How quickly will I see results?
A: Improvements in oil control/pore appearance can show in weeks; pigment changes may need 8–12 weeks of consistent use (studies often report results at ~8 weeks).

Niacinamide Key takeaways

• Use 2–4% for most benefits; 4% has clinical backing for melasma.
  
• Safe for use in the morning and evening; layer after vitamin C or use separately.
  
• Great for barrier support, sebum regulation, and brightening, this is an ideal core ingredient for many routines.
  

Bakuchiol — The Natural Retinol Alternative

If you’ve ever wanted the anti-aging benefits of retinol without the redness, dryness, or flaking, bakuchiol might be your new favourite ingredient. Often referred to as the “natural alternative to retinol,” bakuchiol is a plant-derived compound that offers many of the same visible benefits, including a smoother texture, fewer wrinkles, and brighter skin, with significantly less irritation.

Bakuchiol is extracted from the seeds and leaves of the Psoralea corylifolia plant, also known as babchi, a herb that has been used in traditional Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for centuries. Modern dermatology has embraced it for its ability to stimulate collagen production, improve elasticity, and even skin tone, making it one of the most promising naturally derived actives in skincare.

Unlike retinol, which can cause dryness and photosensitivity, bakuchiol is gentle enough for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. Studies show it can mimic the gene expression patterns of retinol, meaning it encourages your skin to behave as if you’re using retinol, but without the irritation.

In this section, we’ll explore how bakuchiol works, its dermatologist-approved benefits, the best ways to use it, and how it compares to retinol in both safety and effectiveness. Whether you’re starting your first anti-aging routine or looking for a plant-based upgrade, bakuchiol deserves a closer look.

What is bakuchiol & how it works?

Bakuchiol is a plant-derived phenol isolated from Psoralea corylifolia (babchi). It is not a retinoid chemically, but research suggests it modulates gene expression and cellular pathways that overlap with retinoid signalling, resulting in increased cell turnover, collagen stimulation, and improvements in photoaging signs while typically causing less irritation.

Clinical evidence: bakuchiol vs retinol

A randomised, double-blind clinical trial published in the British Journal of Dermatology (Dhaliwal et al.) compared bakuchiol with retinol and found comparable improvements in wrinkle reduction and hyperpigmentation, with less irritation in the bakuchiol group. Multiple reviews conclude that bakuchiol is a promising alternative to prescription retinoids, although the body of evidence is smaller than that for prescription retinoids.

Load-bearing claim: Clinical trial data show that bakuchiol can match the efficacy of retinol in improving photoaging in selected endpoints and tends to be better tolerated.

Who should use bakuchiol?

• Those with sensitive skin who cannot tolerate retinoids.
  
• Individuals seeking anti-ageing benefits who also want to minimise irritation risk.
  
• Individuals who avoid retinoids due to pregnancy concerns (but note: safety data in pregnancy is limited. Many clinicians still recommend caution and prefer avoidance during pregnancy and lactation until more data is available).

Recommended formulations and concentrations

• Bakuchiol appears to be effective in topical formulations ranging from 0.5% to 1%, commonly found in serums and moisturisers. Some products use a small % within blends with squalane or oils for better delivery.

Morning Routines with bakuchiol

1. Cleanser
   
2. Hydrating toner (optional)
   
3. Bakuchiol serum/cream: apply a few drops/pumps; many formulations are designed for both morning and evening use.
4. Moisturizer
   
5. Sunscreen with SPF 30+ (broad spectrum) is crucial when using any cell-turnover ingredient to protect newly formed skin.
   

Evening Routine

1. Cleanser (double cleanse if necessary)
   
2. Tone/hydrate
   
3. Apply bakuchiol serum (start 2–3x/week, increase to daily as tolerated)
   
4. Moisturize
   

Frequency: start slow

• Begin every other night or 3 nights/week to assess tolerance. If there is no irritation, move to nightly use. Many people tolerate daily use. Journal of Integrative Dermatology
  

Layering & compatibility

• Bakuchiol + Vitamin C / antioxidants: safe and synergistic (antioxidants protect against oxidative damage).
  
• Bakuchiol + retinoids: likely redundant; if you want the full retinoid effect, choose a retinoid. Combining them may increase activity and irritation; avoid unless managed by a clinician.
  
• Sun safety: Even though bakuchiol is less irritating, continue to use sunscreen diligently.
  

Side effects & safety considerations

• Generally well tolerated; less dryness/peeling than retinol, but still possible irritation in sensitive users.
  
• Pregnancy: limited data; while bakuchiol is not a vitamin A derivative, safety in pregnancy is not well established. Many clinicians advise caution.

Product picks (examples)

• The INKEY List Bakuchiol Moisturiser. Serum is a budget-friendly option marketed as a retinol alternative.
• Biossance Squalane + Bakuchiol Serum.  bakuchiol in a squalane base (good for dry/sensitive skin).
  
• Before/after texture comparison (consent required).
  
• Ingredient macro shot of plant (Psoralea corylifolia) with overlay text: “Bakuchiol: Plant-based retinol alternative.”
  

Bakuchiol — FAQs (short)

Q: Can bakuchiol replace retinol?
A: For many users, bakuchiol provides similar anti-aging benefits with less irritation based on trials, but prescription retinoids (like tretinoin) remain the clinical gold standard for some aging concerns.

Q: How fast do results appear?
A: Visible improvements in texture and tone are usually reported over 8–12 weeks of consistent use.

Bakuchiol — Key takeaways

• An effective anti-ageing alternative with less irritation than retinol, as demonstrated in controlled trials.
  
• Suitable for sensitive or retinoid-intolerant skin; start with a gentle approach.
  
• Always pair with sunscreen.
  

Peptides — The Collagen Helpers

When it comes to firm, youthful-looking skin, collagen is the star protein, and peptides are the behind-the-scenes helpers that keep it strong and resilient. Peptides are short chains of amino acids, the fundamental building blocks of proteins like collagen, elastin, and keratin that give your skin structure, strength, and bounce.

As we age, natural collagen production slows down, leading to the development of fine lines, sagging, and a loss of elasticity. That’s where peptides come in. By sending “repair signals” to skin cells, they stimulate the synthesis of new collagen and elastin, helping to restore firmness and smoothness over time.

Dermatologists often describe peptides as skin communicators. They tell your skin to behave like it did when it was younger. Modern formulations now include various peptide types, such as signal peptides that enhance collagen production, carrier peptides that improve absorption, and neurotransmitter-inhibiting peptides that help relax expression lines.

Best of all, peptides are non-irritating and compatible with nearly all other actives, making them a perfect addition to morning or evening routines. Whether in a serum, moisturiser, or eye cream, they deliver a powerful anti-aging boost while maintaining your skin’s comfort and balance.

What are peptides in skincare?

Peptides are short chains of amino acid fragments of proteins, used topically to signal skin cells (fibroblasts, keratinocytes) to perform functions like collagen synthesis, repair, and matrix remodelling. Specific peptides (sometimes called signal peptides, carrier peptides, or enzyme inhibitors) have different proposed mechanisms: some stimulate collagen production, some inhibit enzymes that break down collagen, and some deliver trace metals for enzymatic processes.

Evidence: Do peptides actually work?

• There is laboratory and clinical evidence that certain peptides, such as palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 (“Matrixyl”), can stimulate procollagen production in fibroblasts and improve the appearance of fine lines in topical applications. Recent reviews and studies continue to support peptides as a promising class for anti-aging cosmeceuticals.

Load-bearing claim: Cosmetic peptides like palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 have been shown to upregulate procollagen and improve wrinkle appearance in controlled studies and in vitro work.

Types of peptides commonly used

• Signal peptides (eg, palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 a.k.a. Matrixyl) — stimulate collagen production.
  
• Carrier peptides (eg, copper peptides) — support enzymatic processes and wound healing.
  
• Enzyme-inhibiting peptides — reduce collagen breakdown (MMP inhibitors).
  

Concentrations & formulation notes

• Effective concentrations vary depending on the peptide and formulation. For some peptides, effective in-use concentrations reported in studies are low (ppm level), but commercial products might present higher %. Delivery (via lipid carrier or matrix) influences activity. Recent literature suggests palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 demonstrates activity at low ppm concentrations in cellular assays; consumer serums often have 2–10% blends of peptides or peptide complexes.
  

Peptides Step-by-step Routines

• Peptides are gentle and can be used in the morning and evening. They are usually applied after cleansing/toning, and before heavier creams/oils.
  
• Pair peptides with hydrating ingredients (hyaluronic acid) and barrier lipids to maximise skin repair.
  

Morning routine (peptide focus for anti-aging/prevention)

1. Cleanser
   
2. Hydrating toner/essence
   
3. Peptide serum (e.g., Matrixyl, multi-peptide blends) is applied to the skin.

4. Moisturiser (with SPF if AM)
   
5. Sunscreen SPF 30+
   

Evening routine (repair & support)

1. Cleanser
   
2. Peptide serum/peptide + HA serum (apply to damp skin)
   
3. Moisturiser/occlusive as needed
   

Layering: peptides with other actives

• Peptides + retinoids: complementary. Use peptides to support repair while retinoids increase cell turnover. They can be used together; peptides may reduce dryness/irritation by supporting repair.
  
• Peptides + vitamin C: compatible. Vitamin C promotes collagen synthesis while peptides can signal fibroblasts — a synergistic pairing often found in anti-aging stacks.
  
• Peptides + AHAs/BHAs: safe, but if irritation occurs, back off frequency.
  

Side effects & who benefits most

• Low irritation risk — peptides are generally well tolerated and suit most skin types, including sensitive.
  
• The best candidates are those seeking preventative anti-aging, early fine lines, or a combined use with retinoids/antioxidants.
  

Product picks (examples)

• The Ordinary Matrixyl 10% + HA — Matrixyl peptide complex with hyaluronic acid for hydration and anti-aging claims.
• The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + HA — peptide complex + HA for firmness and elasticity.
• Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% — for repair and enzymatic support (The Ordinary).

• Graphic: “How peptides signal fibroblasts” — simplified cellular diagram.
• Product grid showing peptide serums (alt: “Peptide serums for anti-aging: Matrixyl and peptide blends”).
  

Peptides — FAQs

Q: How long to see peptide results?
A: Typically several weeks to months; peptides support collagen remodelling, which is slower than surface hydration changes. Clinical studies often show meaningful changes after 8–12 weeks.

Peptides — Key takeaways

• Peptides are a gentle, evidence-based class useful for collagen support and firming.
  
• Layering is straightforward. For optimal results, use with hydrators and sunscreens.
  

You May Also Like

If you enjoyed learning about the Ingredient Deep Dive Series, here are more dermatologist-approved guides and skincare tips to explore on SkincareHost.com:

• Perfect Morning Skincare Routines — Begin your day with dermatologist-recommended steps for radiant, healthy-looking skin.
• Evening Skincare Routine — Discover the best nighttime skincare rituals for repair and rejuvenation.
• Best At-Home Facial Treatments — Learn how to achieve spa-like results using safe, effective ingredients at home.
• Sustainable Skincare Products — Explore eco-friendly skincare options recommended by dermatologists.
• Derm-Backed Eye Creams — Find out which dermatologist-approved eye creams actually deliver visible results.
• Travel Skincare Routine — Keep your skin glowing and balanced while on the go with these expert-approved travel skincare tips.
• Anti-Aging Skincare — Discover dermatologist-tested ingredients and treatments that support youthful, radiant skin.

Final notes — Building routines that combine these three safely

Here are practical, ready-to-use routine examples that combine niacinamide, bakuchiol, and peptides without overwhelming skin:

Option A — Balanced AM / PM (everyday user)

AM

1. Gentle cleanser
   
2. Niacinamide serum (2–5%) — for oil control and barrier support. Peptide serum (if using AM, you can layer peptide over niacinamide)
   
3. Moisturizer
   
4. Sunscreen SPF 30+
   

PM

1. Cleanser
   
2. Bakuchiol serum (start 2–3x/week → nightly as tolerated). Alternative to retinol for evening repair.
3. Peptide serum (alternate nights if layering feels heavy)
   
4. Moisturizer
   

This plan utilises niacinamide as a backbone, both in the morning and evening, while rotating bakuchiol to the evening and incorporating peptides daily for support.

Option B — Heavy anti-aging (for non-sensitive skin)

AM: Cleanse → Vitamin C → Niacinamide → Peptides → Sunscreen.
PM: Cleanse → Retinoid (or bakuchiol if retinoid intolerant) → Peptides → Moisturiser. (If using retinoid and bakuchiol, avoid combining; choose one at first.)

Practical tips

• Introduce one active at a time. Start with niacinamide for 1–2 weeks, then add peptides, followed by bakuchiol.
  
• Patch test new serums.
  
• Sunscreen daily — non-negotiable when using cell turnover actives (retinoids/bakuchiol).
  
• Keep routines simple when travelling or if you have reactive skin.

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