Hyaluronic acid and retinol: an effective combination for acne and anti-aging

Table of Content:
Retinol Benefits & Side-effects | Retinization | Can Hyaluronic Acid help with Retinization? | Hyaluronic Acid Benefits | FAQ with Dr. Fernandez | Can I use them together? | Can I use them if pregnant? | Should I apply a moisturizer? | What other ingredients can I combine with these?

Retinol and hyaluronic acid can be considered as the ultimate duo in skin care. Combined, they have a synergistic effect, making it easier to reap the benefits of retinol without suffering any of the usual dryness thanks to the moisture boost from hyaluronic acid.

Retinol is a vitamin A derivative called retinoid and an attractive option for individuals who want to reduce acne breakouts and combat anti-aging^[1].

Retinoids, such as retinol and tretinoin, are the only FDA-approved ingredients on the market for acne and anti-aging due to their exceptional retexturizing and smoothing qualities^[2].

Unfortunately, using retinoids (retinol) usually brings some undesired side effects such as redness, itchiness, peeling, and excessive dryness^[3] — the so-called retinization.

Besides, when skin begins to age it displays signs of wrinkles, pigmentation, texture changes such as loss of elasticity and moisture, all resulting in loss of firmness finally leading to skin sagging^[4].

Youthful-looking skin requires a high content of water^[5]. This is where hyaluronic acid (HA) comes in handy. HA is a substance naturally present in the skin, however, its levels decline with age resulting in a decrease in skin moisture, which may contribute to loss of firmness^[6]. hyaluronic acid has the capability to retain up to 1000 times its weight in water^[7].

Research shows that topically applied hyaluronic acid reduces wrinkles and helps retain a youthful appearance on the skin^[8].

What is retinol?

Retinol is known to be very beneficial for the skin. It stimulates collagen production, decreases inflammation, and promotes skin cell turnover^[9] , which is why it is often used as an acne self-care product ^[10].

Benefits retinol

1. Increases collagen production
2. Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
3. Improves skin tone and skin texture
4. Reduces hyperpigmentation, lightening dark spots
5. Minimizes pores

Side effects of retinol

While Retinol is very popular, some side effects are associated with its use. Start with the lowest concentration and avoid direct sun exposure to mitigate these side effects.

• Skin irritation and reddening
• Burning sensation
• Dry, flaky, and peeling skin
• Acne breakouts
• Sunburn^[11]

What is retinization?

Retinol irritation —or retinization — may occur when you first introduce retinol to your skincare routine. 

The typical symptoms of Retinization include painful irritation, redness, a burning sensation, extremely dry skin, peeling or discoloration, and flaking^[12]. The use of retinol, tretinoin or other retinoids may also cause the so-called tretinoin purge, which is an increased amount of acne breakouts during the first weeks of treatment.

What is hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid — also known as hyaluronan or hyaluronate — is a substance produced naturally in the body, especially in the eyes, joints, and skin^[13]. It acts as a lubricant and cushion in the skin, joints, and other tissues^[14].

Hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally present in the skin; however, the aging process and exposure to UV rays, pollution, and tobacco smoke decrease its amounts in the body^[15].

Hyaluronic acid plays a vital role in skin health and wound healing as an anti-aging agent, preventing joint pain, preserving bone strength, and relieving dry eyes^{[16] [17].}

Benefits of hyaluronic acid

When applied to the skin, hyaluronic acid also has many benefits.

1. Keeps skin moisturized and hydrated
2. It gives the appearance of a more youthful skin
3. Stimulates skin cell regeneration
4. Reduces premature signs of aging due to the environment
5.  Reduces skin pigmentation

FAQ about retinol and hyaluronic acid

Can I use retinol and hyaluronic acid together?

Hyaluronic acid and retinol, in contrast to many other skin care components, can be combined in the same skincare regimen. Not only that, but combining them is recommended by dermatologists because it can minimize negative effects that frequently accompany retinol use.

Can I use retinol and hyaluronic acid if I am pregnant or nursing?

Women who wish to become pregnant or are pregnant or nursing should avoid using any type of retinoids, including retinol, due to the suspected teratogenic effects.

On the other hand, the use of hyaluronic acid during pregnancy is considered safe.  

Can I use retinol and hyaluronic while also derma rolling?

You can safely apply hyaluronic acid after using a derma roller, however you should wait 24-48 hours before applying retinol or any other prescription retinoid.

Should I use hyaluronic acid before or after retinol?

Experts advise that individuals apply retinol first, then wait at least 30 minutes before applying hyaluronic acid. Retinol should be absorbed into your skin first and then use hyaluronic acid to hydrate and moisturize your skin in order to better tolerate the irritation caused by retinol. 

Should I apply a moisturizer before retinol?

Yes. Apply a moisturizer, wait a few minutes and then apply retinol. It will help prevent irritation in your skin.

Besides, applying retinol will make the skin more sensitive to sunlight which is why you should always apply sunscreen with a very high SPF factor every morning. 

What ingredients should be combined with retinol?

Ceramides are lipids already present in our bodies that help to preserve the skin barrier and keep the skin hydrated. Using a moisturizer with ceramides helps restore the skin’s outer layer.

SPF 50 Using SPF with retinol is something you are always advised to do by healthcare professionals. 

What ingredients should not be combined with retinol?

Vitamin C should not be used at the same time as retinol. It should be used in the morning before applying sunscreen and retinol should be applied at night. 

Applying these ingredients at the same time could result in an over-exfoliation which increases the skin’s sensitivity to the sun. 

Alpha hydroxy acids (glycolic acid) and Beta hydroxy acid (salicylic acid). If you are also using these ingredients in your skin care routine, alternate them with retinol on different days to avoid irritating your skin. Read more about lactic acid vs. glycolic acid.

What ingredients can be combined with hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid can also be used in combination with Clindamycin gel and Tretinoin when treating acne because it helps moisturize the skin. 

Hyaluronic acid can be combined with almost all other skin care ingredients because it helps to hydrate, plump, and protect the skin.

Conclusion

Unlike many other skincare ingredients, retinol and hyaluronic acid seems to be a match made in heaven and should be used as part of the same skincare routine. Using them together will help you prevent or reduce the severity of retinol irritation. This is especially necessary for individuals with sensitive skin or those following a skincare routine for acne.

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Article References:

1. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23293-retinol
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6791161/
3. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2014/021108s015lbl.pdf
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28247017/
5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3583886/
6. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28247017/
7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2778417/#
8. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28247017/
9. https://www.centerforsurgicaldermatology.com/benefits-of-retiniods/
10. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23293-retinol
11. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23293-retinol
12. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2014/021108s015lbl.pdf
13. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22915-hyaluronic-acid#
14. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1062/hyaluronic-acid
15. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19808648/
16. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1062/hyaluronic-acid
17. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/hyaluronic-acid-benefits
18. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3583886/
19. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7570474/
20. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7570474/
21. https://www.hmpgloballearningnetwork.com/site/wounds/article/hyaluronic-acid-inflammation-and-tissue-regeneration
22. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/10978-skin
23. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4457502/
24. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4457502/
25. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5967208/
26. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3583886/