Tapering Retinoid Frequency: The HPR Spring Protocol

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In spring, tapering retinoid frequency reduces the risk of UV-sensitised irritation while maintaining cellular turnover. Switching from nightly retinol to a once- or twice-weekly application of HPR (Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate) preserves efficacy, supports barrier integrity, and aligns with the skin's seasonal recalibration needs.
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Avoiding Ingredient Conflicts: What Not to Mix in Your Skincare Routine

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Certain skincare ingredient combinations reduce efficacy, destabilise actives, or compromise barrier integrity. The most clinically significant conflicts involve acids with retinoids, vitamin C with niacinamide at high concentrations, and multiple exfoliating actives used simultaneously. Understanding these interactions is the foundation of layering intelligence.
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Understanding Active Ingredient Concentrations in Skincare

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Active ingredient concentrations determine how effectively a skincare product performs. A higher percentage does not always mean better results — efficacy depends on the active's threshold concentration, its pH environment, molecular weight, and ingredient compatibility. Precision dosing, not maximum strength, is the standard by which formulation quality should be judged.
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How to Read a Skincare Ingredient List: Dr Alek Explains

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A skincare ingredient list is written in INCI order, from highest to lowest concentration. Ingredients above 1% appear in descending order of volume; those at or below 1% may appear in any order. Reading this list tells you what actives are present, roughly how concentrated they are, and whether the formulation is likely to deliver on its claims.
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Why Skincare Ingredients Lose Potency and How Formulation Protects Them

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Skincare ingredients lose potency through oxidation, light exposure, pH mismatch, and incompatible formulation. Protecting active integrity requires stable ingredient selection, pH-matched vehicles, opaque or airless packaging, and precise dosing — ensuring the active that leaves the laboratory arrives at your skin in its functional form.
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Glycolic Acid Benefits: What the Science Actually Says

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Glycolic acid (AHA exfoliant) accelerates the shedding of keratinised surface cells, visibly refining skin texture and supporting a more even-looking skin tone. Research supports its role in addressing dullness, uneven pigmentation, and the visible appearance of fine lines through consistent, precision-dosed use over time.
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Glycolic Acid Frequency: A Beginner’s Guide to Using It Safely

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Beginners should start glycolic acid once per week, applied in the evening. After two to four weeks without irritation, frequency can increase to twice weekly. Most skin types achieve effective exfoliation at two to three times per week. Daily use is not recommended for beginners and risks compromising barrier integrity.
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Glycolic Acid: How to Use It Correctly: Dr Alek Explains

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Glycolic acid (AHA exfoliant) accelerates the shedding of keratinised surface cells to visibly refine skin texture. Begin with two to three applications per week, always in the evening, and introduce it gradually. Avoid layering with retinoids or other acids on the same night until your skin has demonstrated tolerance.
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