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?

If you’re comparing hyaluronic acid vs retinol, you may be wondering whether these skincare ingredients do completely different things — or if they can actually work together. While both are extremely popular in skincare, hyaluronic acid and retinol serve very different purposes and are often used to address different skin concerns.

Retinol is an over-the-counter vitamin A derivative commonly used for acne, fine lines, wrinkles, uneven texture, and signs of aging, while hyaluronic acid is a hydrating ingredient that helps attract and retain moisture in the skin. Because retinol can sometimes cause dryness and irritation, many people use hyaluronic acid alongside it to help support the skin barrier and improve hydration.

Although over-the-counter products may help improve mild skin concerns, prescription-strength retinoids like tretinoin are generally considered more potent and effective than retinol for treating acne and visible signs of aging. Dermatologists may recommend prescription treatments when stronger or faster results are needed.

Because skincare ingredients affect everyone’s skin differently, personalized guidance may help you choose the right routine for your skin goals and sensitivity level. Through Miiskin, you can get an online consultation with licensed dermatologists and explore customized prescription skincare treatments designed for concerns like acne, dehydration, fine lines, uneven texture, and aging skin.

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
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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
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21. https://www.hmpgloballearningnetwork.com/site/wounds/article/hyaluronic-acid-inflammation-and-tissue-regeneration
22. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/10978-skin
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