Active ingredient combinations: what works and what to avoid
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how active ingredients work together in skincare
Active ingredients are designed to target specific skin concerns and often have a scientific basis for how they function. Understanding how different actives interact helps you build a routine that maximises results while protecting the skin barrier.
Cactus Skincare does not focus on aggressive synthetic actives. With the exception of vitamins C, E and natural vitamin A derivatives, we prioritise plant-based alternatives that support long-term skin health. That said, we know many people use actives alongside natural skincare, so understanding how they work together - and when to be cautious - is essential.
active ingredient combinations that work
vitamin C and ferulic acid
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect skin from environmental stress and free radicals. Ferulic acid helps stabilise vitamin C and enhance its antioxidant performance.
This combination is often used to improve brightness, support collagen and increase protection against daily exposure.
vitamin C and vitamin E
Vitamin C and vitamin E are both antioxidants, but they target different types of oxidative stress. Used together, they offer enhanced protection and support skin resilience.
Cactus formulas naturally combine antioxidant-rich botanicals to deliver similar benefits without relying on isolated synthetic compounds.
vitamin C, vitamin E and ferulic acid
This trio builds on the benefits of vitamins C and E by adding stability and extended antioxidant protection. It is commonly used in high-performance antioxidant serums.
hyaluronic acid and vitamin C
Hyaluronic acid helps attract and retain moisture, while vitamin C supports brightness and skin strength. Used together, they help improve texture and support hydration.
This pairing works best when vitamin C is applied first, followed by hydration.
retinoids and peptides
Retinoids support collagen production, while peptides help improve firmness and skin structure. This combination is effective but can increase sensitivity.
At Cactus, natural vitamin A derivatives are found in ingredients like apricot kernel oil and rosehip oil, offering gentler support for skin renewal.
antioxidants and SPF
Sunscreen is essential, but antioxidants add an extra layer of protection by neutralising free radicals that UV filters cannot block completely.
This is why antioxidant support in daytime routines is key.
retinoids and hyaluronic acid
Retinoids can be drying. Pairing them with hydration helps reduce irritation and supports barrier recovery.
Hydration should always follow treatment steps.
niacinamide and vitamin C
Niacinamide and vitamin C can complement each other when formulated correctly. Together, they help support brightness, barrier strength and even skin tone.
active ingredient combinations requiring caution
retinoids and exfoliating acids
Using retinoids alongside AHAs or BHAs can significantly increase sensitivity. If using both, separate them by time of day or alternate nights.
retinoids and vitamin C
These ingredients perform best at different pH levels. Using them together can increase irritation and reduce effectiveness.
Vitamin C is best used in the morning, retinoids at night.
benzoyl peroxide and vitamin C
Benzoyl peroxide oxidises vitamin C, rendering both ingredients ineffective. These should never be used in the same routine.
benzoyl peroxide and retinol
This combination deactivates both ingredients and increases irritation risk. Alternate usage if both are required.
alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids
Using multiple exfoliating acids together can compromise the skin barrier. Products formulated with both acids are safer than layering separate treatments.
how to introduce active ingredients safely
Due to the potency of many active products, they should never be introduced all at once or used daily immediately. This can damage the skin barrier and lead to irritation.
Best practice:
• Introduce one active at a time
• Start once per week
• Increase frequency gradually based on skin tolerance
Barrier health should always come before results.
when to apply active ingredients
morning routine
• Cleanse gently with Lemon Myrtle Cleanser
• Apply antioxidant support such as Protective Day Serum
• Moisturise with Light Balancing Creme or Nature's Antioxidant Creme
• Finish with SPF
Morning routines focus on protection and prevention.
night routine
• Cleanse with Lemon Myrtle Cleanser
• Use Gentle Exfoliant or White Clay Mask 1 to 2 times per week
• Apply Regenerative Night Serum for repair
• Moisturise with Intense Hydrating Creme
• Seal with Daily Rejuve Facial Oil if needed
• Use Intense Eye Creme
Night routines focus on repair and regeneration.
Natural alternatives to synthetic actives
prickly pear
Rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids, it supports hydration, repair and visible calm while helping reduce signs of ageing.
white kaolin clay
Gently absorbs excess oil and impurities while supporting skin renewal without stripping the barrier.
Found in White Clay Mask.
jojoba oil
Lightweight and non-comedogenic, it balances oil production and supports barrier function.
kakadu plum
The highest natural source of vitamin C available. Supports brightness, collagen production and antioxidant protection.
Used in Protective Day Serum.
colloidal oats
Soothes irritation, supports barrier repair and reduces inflammation. Ideal for sensitive or compromised skin.
shea butter
Deeply moisturises, improves elasticity and strengthens the skin barrier.
white tea extract
Rich in antioxidants that help protect against free radicals and support youthful-looking skin.
apricot kernel oil and rosehip oil
Naturally high in vitamin A derivatives, these oils support skin renewal, elasticity and texture without the irritation often associated with synthetic retinoids.
Using actives intelligently supports long-term skin health
Understanding how active ingredients interact helps you make informed choices, protect your skin barrier and achieve better long-term results.
Gentle, consistent routines that prioritise calm, resilient skin will always outperform aggressive approaches.
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