Compatibility of Perfect-C, Myristyl Nicotinate, and Retinol in Formulations

Question

I would like to know about mixing ingredients. If I want to use Perfect-C 10% (which is oil-soluble) together with Myristyl Nicotinate (Pro Niacin) 10%, will these two ingredients be compatible?

The reason I'm asking is because Vitamin B3 is generally not recommended for use with all types of Vitamin C, as they can interact and reduce effectiveness. I noticed that Pro Niacin also contains Niacin.

Furthermore, if these two ingredients can be mixed, can I also add Retinol 1% to the formula?

Thank you.

MySkinRecipes Expert · Accepted Answer

Compatibility of Perfect-C, Myristyl Nicotinate, and Retinol

Based on the product information, mixing Perfect-C (Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate) and Myristyl Nicotinate (Pro Niacin) in the same formulation is not recommended.

The description for Perfect-C explicitly states, "Do not use with Vitamin B3". Myristyl Nicotinate is a derivative of Vitamin B3 (nicotinic acid), and therefore, combining these two ingredients is advised against to maintain product stability and efficacy.

The concern about the incompatibility between Niacinamide (another form of Vitamin B3) and L-Ascorbic Acid (a form of Vitamin C) is related to potential reactions that can reduce the effectiveness of both ingredients and cause skin flushing. While Perfect-C is a different, oil-soluble form of Vitamin C and Myristyl Nicotinate is an oil-soluble Vitamin B3 derivative, the manufacturer's guidance for Perfect-C indicates incompatibility with Vitamin B3 in general.

Regarding the addition of Retinol 1%:

Since Perfect-C and Myristyl Nicotinate should not be mixed together, adding Retinol to this specific combination is not feasible. Retinol is an effective anti-aging ingredient that is typically oil-soluble. Its compatibility with other ingredients depends on the specific formulation. If you are developing a formulation, it is crucial to check the compatibility of each ingredient with all others in the mix, as well as the overall pH and solvent system.