Can I use AHA (Glycolic/Lactic) and PHA (Gluconolactone) together?
Can you use AHA (Glycolic/Lactic) and PHA (Gluconolactone) together?
⚠️ With care
AHA (Glycolic/Lactic) guide → · PHA (Gluconolactone) guide →
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What is the difference between AHA and BHA?
AHAs like glycolic and lactic acid are water-soluble and work on the skin's surface to brighten and smooth, while BHA like salicylic acid is oil-soluble and gets into pores. In Korean skincare both are used sparingly, a few times weekly, always with daily sun protection.
Can you use vitamin C and niacinamide together?
Yes, current understanding is that vitamin C and niacinamide can be used together safely, and many Korean formulas combine them. The old warning that they cancel out is largely outdated. If your skin is sensitive, you can still apply them at different times of day to be cautious.
✍️ Written & reviewed by the KoreaPlus Editorial team — dermatologist-informed, cosmetic-science researched & source-cited. Last reviewed 2026-06-21.
General educational information using cosmetic structure-function wording — not medical advice. Always patch-test new actives. © KoreaPlus.