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Hyaluronic acid and retinol are two of the most talked-about ingredients in skincare.
While both are powerhouse ingredients on their own, combining them can seem confusing. Will they work together harmoniously, or will one cancel out the other’s benefits?
As a dermatologist, I’m here to break it down and give you the ultimate guide to using hyaluronic acid with retinol effectively.
What Are Hyaluronic Acid and Retinol?
Hyaluronic Acid (HA)
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the skin that acts like a sponge, attracting and holding up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Its primary role in skincare is hydration, plumping the skin and making it appear more youthful and supple.
Who is it for? All skin types, especially those prone to dryness, dehydration, or sensitivity.
Key benefits: Deep hydration, improved skin elasticity, and reduced appearance of fine lines caused by dryness.
Retinol
Retinol is a vitamin A derivative that accelerates cell turnover, stimulates collagen production, and addresses skin concerns like fine lines, wrinkles, and acne. It’s widely regarded as a gold-standard anti-aging ingredient but can cause dryness and irritation, especially in new users.
Who is it for? Those tackling aging signs, acne, or uneven texture.
Key benefits: Smooths fine lines, improves skin texture, and reduces hyperpigmentation.
Can You Use Hyaluronic Acid with Retinol?
Yes, you absolutely can—and should! The two ingredients complement each other perfectly. Hyaluronic acid hydrates and soothes the skin, helping to mitigate the dryness and irritation often caused by retinol. Together, they create a balanced approach to skin rejuvenation, ensuring you reap the benefits of retinol without compromising your skin barrier.
Why Pair Hyaluronic Acid and Retinol?
Here’s why these two ingredients are a skincare dream team:
1. Combat Retinol-Induced Dryness
Retinol’s exfoliating nature can leave the skin feeling dry or irritated, especially during the initial weeks of use. Hyaluronic acid replenishes lost moisture, keeping your skin hydrated and comfortable.
2. Support Skin Barrier Function
Retinol can sometimes weaken the skin barrier, leading to redness or sensitivity. Hyaluronic acid reinforces the barrier, ensuring it stays resilient and healthy.
3. Enhanced Absorption
Hyaluronic acid preps the skin by increasing its hydration levels, allowing retinol to penetrate deeper and work more effectively.
How to Use Hyaluronic Acid and Retinol Together
For dry or sensitive skin:
Step 1: Cleanse
Start with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, makeup, and excess oil. Opt for sulfate-free formulas to avoid stripping your skin.
Step 2: Apply Hyaluronic Acid
Immediately follow with a hyaluronic acid serum or moisturizer. Apply it while your skin is still slightly damp for maximum hydration.
Step 3: Lock It In with Moisturizer
Seal in hydration with a barrier-repairing moisturizer. Look for ingredients like ceramides, peptides, or squalane for extra nourishment.
Wait for 15-20 minutes before applying retinol.
Step 4: Apply Retinol (Night Routine Only)
Use a pea-sized amount of retinol and spread it evenly across your face.
Avoid the eye area, corners of the mouth, and nostrils to minimize irritation.
Step 5: Lock it up with another layer of moisturizer
Follow it up with another layer of moisturizer.
Step 6: Sunscreen (Morning Routine)
If you’re using retinol at night (that's the only right time to use it), always follow up with sunscreen the next morning. Retinol increases your skin’s sensitivity to UV rays, making sun protection critical.
For oily skin: You don't need to do step 3 (i.e., you don't need to apply a moisturizer)
I have covered these steps in my article on applying retinol before or after moisturizer as well.
Dermatologist Tips for Success
Introduce Retinol Gradually: If you’re new to retinol, start with a low concentration (0.25–0.5%) and use it 2–3 times per week. Increase usage as your skin builds tolerance.
Patch Test First: Test new products on a small area of skin to rule out adverse reactions.
Don’t Mix Retinol with Strong Actives: Avoid combining retinol with exfoliating acids (like glycolic or salicylic acid) or benzoyl peroxide in the same routine to prevent irritation.
Use HA Twice a Day: Hyaluronic acid is gentle enough to be used both morning and night, even if you’re not using retinol every evening.
Which Products Would Work Well with Each Other?
No7 Advanced Retinol 1.5% Complex is a good retinol product. It comes with a post-retinol soother that keeps your skin hydrated.
These products work extremely well with retinol:
Hyaluronic Acid Serum My recommendation is the Cerave Hyaluronic Acid Serum. This contains vitamin B5 and ceramides in addition to hyaluronic acid.
Serums with Ceramides and B12 My recommendation is The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support Serum.
Copper Peptide or multi-peptide serumsMy recommendation is The Ordinary "Buffet" + Copper Peptides 1% serum.
Common Myths About Using Retinol and Hyaluronic Acid Together
Myth 1: Retinol Will Cancel Out Hyaluronic Acid’s Effects
Fact: Retinol and hyaluronic acid work synergistically. HA hydrates the skin, creating a smoother canvas for retinol to penetrate.
Myth 2: You Can Only Use One at a Time
Fact: While they can be effective separately, pairing them maximizes benefits and minimizes side effects.
FAQs
Q: Can I use hyaluronic acid before retinol?
Yes, you can! Applying hyaluronic acid first hydrates the skin and creates a protective layer, which can make retinol more tolerable for sensitive skin.
Q: Is hyaluronic acid suitable for sensitive skin?
Absolutely. It’s a gentle and non-irritating ingredient, making it ideal for all skin types.
Conclusion
Hyaluronic acid and retinol are a match made in skincare heaven. By combining them, you can achieve hydrated, smooth, and youthful-looking skin without compromising your skin barrier. With the right routine, these ingredients can transform your skincare game.
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