These Skincare Power Couples Will Upgrade Your Daily Routine

12th February 2025 | By Tamara Corin

This Valentine’s, forget Tinder—your true soulmate might just be in your skincare routine. Beauty’s ultimate “power couples” aren’t just trending; they’re scientifically proven to work better together. From anti-ageing duos to spot-busting pairs, these ingredient match-ups are the chemistry lessons we actually care about. Here, Dr Maryam Zamani, oculoplastic surgeon and founder of MZ Skin @‌drmaryamzamani, explains why you need them in your beauty arsenal…

The Eternal Romantic: Vitamin C + Vitamin E (+ Ferulic Acid)

Vitamin C brightens, Vitamin E repairs, and Ferulic Acid seals the deal. Together, they protect your skin from environmental damage like pollution and sun.

The OG that practically wrote the rulebook on antioxidant.
A punchy cocktail of these ingredients for serious glow.

When incorporating these “power couples,” it’s important to introduce them gradually to avoid overloading the skin.

Dr. Maryam Zamani

The Opposites Attract Duo: Retinol + Hyaluronic Acid

Retinol is your skin’s best friend speeding up cell turnover but occasionally leaving you dry. Enter Hyaluronic Acid, the hydrating comfort your skin needs to balance things out.

A gentle retinol that pairs beautifully with hydration.

The Problem-Solvers: Niacinamide + Salicylic Acid

Niacinamide calms redness, while salicylic acid dives deep into pores to stop breakouts and spots in their tracks. Together, they make the best double act.

A cult-favourite salicylic acid exfoliant.
A gentle option for added hydration around the eyes.

The Glow-Getters: Glycolic Acid + Lactic Acid

Exfoliating power? Tick. Hydration? Double tick. This AHA dream team works to smooth skin texture and boost radiance while keeping irritation at bay.

Multitasking magic with lactic acid at the forefront.

Skincare ingredient ‘power couples’ are combinations of active ingredients that work synergistically to enhance their benefits and deliver more effective results than using each ingredient alone.

Dr. Maryam Zamani

The Gentle Soulmates: Bakuchiol + Squalane

Sensitive skin? Bakuchiol gives you the anti-aging perks of retinol without the drama, while squalane swoops in to moisturise and calm.

The Guardians: Sunscreen + Antioxidants

Think of sunscreen as the bodyguard and antioxidants as the backup crew. Together, they fight sun damage and repair your skin.

The products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, The Handbook may make a small commission on some products purchased through affiliate links.


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