Hyaluronic acid and retinol are two of the most popular and potent skincare ingredients, both of which can help to transform your complexion. Here we look at how the two ingredients can work together to support a healthy, smooth and glowing complexion year-round.
What Is Retinol?
Retinol is an ingredient that's been enjoying its moment in the spotlight for several years now, and it's worth the hype. Retinol is derived from vitamin A and has been proven to boost cell turnover, which can help to tackle a range of common skin concerns including pigmentation, acne, and signs of ageing like fine lines and wrinkles.
If you're new to this powerful ingredient, read our guide on what retinol does for your skin to learn more about its benefits.
What Is Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic acid has become a bit of a hero skincare ingredient because of its ability to help the skin retain moisture. It's a molecule that can hold up to 1,000 times its own weight in water, so it can provide a real hit of moisture for the skin, which helps it to look plumper, bouncier and fresher.
Why Hyaluronic Acid Can Reduce Retinol-Related Dryness
The intensely hydrating properties of hyaluronic acid make it highly compatible with retinol, which is known for being quite drying to the skin for many people. By combining a hyaluronic acid-based serum or moisturiser with retinol, you'll prevent unnecessary moisture loss and help to support your skin barrier.
How To Build An Effective Hyaluronic Acid And Retinol Skincare Routine
As retinol and hyaluronic acid both offer plenty of skin benefits, incorporating these two super ingredients into your skincare routine can play a key role in transforming your complexion. Here are some of our top tips for building an effective skincare routine that'll deliver noticeable results.
1. Choose A Retinol Product That's Suited To Your Skin Type
If you're just getting started with retinol, it's really important to start with a low strength and slowly build up your tolerance over time. This will help you to avoid excessive dryness, which can cause discomfort, inflammation and irritation. Our guide on what percentage retinol you should use explains how to choose the right strength for your skin type and experience level.
SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3% is ideal for first-time retinol users, as it's been specifically formulated to keep irritation to a minimum. Start by using it once a week, applying a small amount to freshly cleansed, dry skin. Allow the product to fully absorb into the skin before applying any other skincare products.
2. Follow With A Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum Or Moisturiser
When your retinol of choice has fully absorbed into the skin, you can follow it with a super-hydrating hyaluronic acid-based serum or moisturiser. Medik8 Hydr8 B5 Intense serum is formulated with sodium hyaluronate, which is an extremely bioavailable form of hyaluronic acid. Other excellent options include the La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Suractivated Serum and the SkinCeuticals HA Intensifier Multi-Glycan serum.
3. Always Use SPF
As retinol can increase your skin's photosensitivity, it's really important to protect it with a broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day.If you're unsure which type of SPF is best for your skin, our guide to chemical vs mineral sunscreen explains the key differences.
The SkinCeuticals Ultra Facial UV Defense SPF50, the Obagi Sun Shield Tint Broad Spectrum SPF50, and the Heliocare 360 Sensation SPF50+ are all excellent, highly protective options to consider.