Can Lytera be mixed with Glycolic Acid or Retinol? (Photo)

Question

I've getting IPL treatments for brown spots which are helping. The nurse recommended I use Lytera (I'm allergic to hydroquinone) to aid the process. I use an AHA ( Paula Begoun glycolic/salicylic) on & off before bed, can I mix the two together just to treat the spots?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

You should consult with an expert dermatologist to make sure that combining the two topicals is safe with your skin type and in combination with the IPL treatments. AHA/BHA combined with Lytera should be just fine.

Anshul Gambhir, MD · Answer

Lytera can be used in combination with other products that contain glycolic and salicylic acids! Although we do recommend to use Lytera full face. There is a new product out now called Even & Correct Dark spot cream that can target individual dark spots a bit stronger compared to the Lytera 2.0. Hope this helps!

Vibha Gambhir, MD · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question! Yes, Lytera and retinol can be used in conjunction with each other. The Lytera can be used twice daily (morning and evening), while the retinol should only be used in the evening. Lytera will be the first product that you apply to your skin after you cleanse it. Also, be sure to apply sunscreen while using retinol as it will make you more sensitive to the sun. Good luck on your journey!

Alex Eshaghian, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for
your question ldanielsen. I understand your concern. IPL is a great
treatment for facial rejuvenation. It works well for discoloration especially when combined with topical skin care products. For my patients I recommend using hydroxyl acids in the morning and brightening agents at night. Please consult
with a doctor for specific recommendations. Good luck!

Emil A. Tanghetti, MD · Answer

Lytera is a great alternative to HQ, and can be used in conjuction with a topical retinoid. I would use caution when mixing any treatment topicals without consulting your dermatologist/provider. Especially when treating pigmentation, an SPF 30+ with zinc oxide should be used daily with regular reapplication.

Katherine Dee, MD · Answer

Skinmedica Lytera is a great serum that helps eliminate pigment and even skin tone. It can be used in conjunction with other topicals to further that end. I would recommend first either a good cleanser with glycolic acid or a topical glycolic used immediately after cleansing. Then I would use the Lytera in the morning routine (followed by moisturizer and sun block) and the Retinol in the evening. You should avoid retinols before and after IPL however. Consult with your doc about timing of retinols around IPL treatment, but we usually recommend to stop them a week before and restarting a week after.

Can Lytera be mixed with Glycolic Acid or Retinol? (Photo)

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