How to use Retinol and Hyaluronic Acid
One of the best things we can do is to learn a bit about what the ingredients are in our skincare products. This would then enable us to understand how they work, what they are meant to do and the results we should expect to see and how to use them. Knowledge is power so let’s dive right in.
What is the difference between Retinol and Hyaluronic Acid?
Vitamin A, also very well known as retinol, works very well for fine lines, wrinkles and pore sizes, it’s one of the best ingredients that we should all be using - it’s a powerhouse. Hyaluronic Acid is such a great ingredient that keeps the skin hydrated and plump. It’s a natural humectant which binds water to collagen helping the skin appear firmer - anything that helps firm the skin you can count me in.
Retinol benefits
Helps reduce pigmentation
Works to improve fine lines, wrinkles and pore size
Treats acne
Helps minimize dark spots
Hyaluronic acid benefits
Moisturizes and hydrates the skin
Plumps the skin
Has antioxidant properties
Helps to restore the skin’s natural barrier
Can you use Retinol and Hyaluronic Acid together?
Yes, you can use these two ingredients together. Hyaluronic Acid and Retinol are two ingredients that compliment each other well. Retinol is more potent than Hyaluronic Acid - together they make a great team and balance each other out.
Although Retinol can produce some dryness, thanks to hyaluronic acid this is significantly reduced because of how much of a moisture boost it will give your skin.
When you combine them both it gives you clearer and more hydrated skin. They both still have things that make them unique but together they are a fantastic duo.
How to use Retinol and Hyaluronic Acid
After cleansing and toning, apply a few drops of Hyaluronic Acid to your face, no particular areas need to be avoided. Wait for it to be absorbed by your skin and then you can follow up with your moisturizer.
When it comes to Retinol, you don’t need pumps and pumps of it, one pump, a pea sized amount is sufficient and apply it to your face, avoiding the direct skin under your eyes. Follow this up with either HA or your moisturizer to prevent any potential dryness, irritation and always follow up with SPF in the morning.
Alexa Tip 💡
You can layer them together, depending on your skin type. If your skin isn’t sensitive you can apply Retinol to dry skin so it really penetrates and then follow up with a Hyaluronic Acid serum or lotion. If your skin is a little or a lot on the sensitive side, using the retinol sandwich method (applying moisturizer either side) works well.
When to use Hyaluronic Acid and Retinol
You can use Hyaluronic acid morning and night, both times after cleansing and toning. Retinol on the other hand, is to be used in the evening, after cleansing but before moisturizing and to start with if you are a beginner - twice a week until your skin builds up more tolerance to it.
In summary
Using Hyaluronic Acid and Retinol together work really well together, you can see the benefits of retinol without suffering any of the possible side effects such as dryness and this is down to the hydration from Hyaluronic Acid.
When incorporated together they make the skin look clearer and more hydrated. You won’t regret making space for these amazing ingredients.
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