The Three-Step Active Routine: Retinoids + Niacinamide (Made Easy)
If you want visible results without upsetting your skin barrier, keep things simple: cleanse, treat, protect. This routine pairs a night-time retinoid with morning niacinamide, adds a supportive moisturiser, and locks it in with daily SPF. It is straightforward enough to follow every day, and flexible enough to tailor to your skin.
Retinoids vs retinol — what they do and how to start
Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives used to improve the look of fine lines, uneven texture and tone. Over-the-counter retinol is usually the gentlest way to begin, which is why it works well in a beginner routine. Introduce it at night, start low and slow, and build up as your skin allows. Retinoids can increase sun sensitivity, so use a broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning. Do not use retinoids if you are pregnant or trying to conceive.
- Start low & slow: apply a pea-sized amount two to three nights per week for the first fortnight. Increase frequency gradually if comfortable.
- Apply to dry skin: cleanse, wait until skin is dry, apply retinoid, then moisturiser.
- SPF is non-negotiable: finish your morning routine with sunscreen every day.
Why niacinamide pairs perfectly
Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is a well-tolerated active that helps calm redness, support the skin barrier and balance oil. Used in the morning under moisturiser and SPF, it complements a night retinoid by offsetting dryness and helping skin stay comfortable while you ramp up.
Your easy weekly cadence
Think rhythm, not rules. Here’s a simple pattern most skin types can follow:
AM (daily)
- Gentle cleanse
- Niacinamide serum
- Moisturiser (barrier-supporting)
- SPF
PM (3–5 nights/week to start)
- Gentle cleanse
- Retinoid (pea-sized amount over face, avoiding eye corners and creases)
- Moisturiser
Tip: if you feel tight or tingly, “buffer” the retinoid by applying moisturiser first, then the retinoid on top, and finish with another light layer of moisturiser. If irritation persists, reduce frequency for a week.
Patch-test new products
Before introducing anything new, patch-test on a small area (e.g., inner forearm) once daily for 7–10 days. If skin remains calm, proceed to the face. Introduce one new product at a time so you can spot what suits you.
Product picks you can add to basket now
Choose one from each step to build your routine in minutes. These are straightforward, good-value options:
1) Gentle cleansers
- SK!N Glow Gel Cleanser + Make-Up Remover (200 ml) — soft, effective cleanse without stripping.
- Browse all Avon cleansers — find a texture that suits your skin type.
2A) AM treatment (niacinamide)
- Anew Renewal Power Serum (30 ml) — morning-friendly serum featuring niacinamide; pairs well with SPF.
- Trial size: Anew Renewal Power Serum — handy if you prefer to test first.
2B) PM treatment (retinoid)
- Anew Anti-Wrinkle Smoothing Serum (30 ml) — an easy entry into retinol for texture and fine lines.
- Sample: Anew Anti-Wrinkle Smoothing Serum — useful for patch-testing.
3) Moisturiser / barrier support
- SK!N Gentle Serum + Cream (50 ml) — soothing 2-in-1 that supports the barrier over actives.
4) Daily SPF (face)
- SK!N Sunscreen + Cream SPF 30 (50 ml) — everyday UVA/UVB protection in a light cream.
- See all Avon sun creams — including Face & Body Shine Control Sun Cream SPF 50 for higher protection.
How to introduce the combo (first 4 weeks)
Week 1: AM: cleanse → niacinamide → moisturiser → SPF. PM: retinoid two nights; on other nights, just cleanse and moisturise.
Week 2: Keep mornings the same. PM: increase retinoid to three nights if comfortable. Add a plain moisturiser layer whenever skin feels dry.
Weeks 3–4: Build to four or five nights as tolerated. Keep niacinamide daily in the morning.
Signs you are on track: mild, short-lived dryness that settles in a day or two; gradual texture smoothing. Red flags: persistent burning, cracking or swelling — reduce frequency, use a bland moisturiser, and seek professional advice if needed.
FAQs
Can I use niacinamide with retinoids? Yes. It is a classic pairing, as niacinamide helps keep the barrier comfortable while you introduce retinoids.
Is retinol the same as prescription retinoids? They are in the same family. Over-the-counter retinol is typically gentler; prescription options are stronger. Beginners usually do best starting with retinol.
Do I really need SPF if I only use retinol at night? Yes. Retinoids can increase sun sensitivity; a daily sunscreen is part of the plan.
What about sensitive skin? Patch-test, go slowly, and buffer with moisturiser. If your skin is very reactive, build tolerance with niacinamide first, then re-try a gentle retinol cadence.
Notes: Always discontinue use and seek professional advice if you experience persistent irritation. Retinoids are not suitable during pregnancy or when trying to conceive.
