As a summary, we suggest applying water-based solutions first, followed by anhydrous or oil formulations, and finally cream or suspension formulations.
Moisturize: Some experts recommend applying Hyaluronic Acid serum directly onto fresh, damp skin, then layering a cream or oil on top to lock moisture in.
We recommend using a hyaluronic acid serum before water-free serums, oils or suspensions/creams. This step locks in formulations and supports the skin barrier to protect against external stressors. Apply hyaluronic acid before anhydrous oils and creams like Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA.
You'll want to apply water-based treatments first, followed by anhydrous (water-free) solutions or oil formulations, followed by creams or suspensions. This means that you would apply a water-based serum such as Amino Acids + B5 before an anhydrous serum or oil such as Retinol 0.2% in Squalane..
The Only Rule for Hyaluronic Acid? Always Apply It on Damp Skin! It might sound surprising, but when hyaluronic acid is applied to dry skin, it can have the opposite effect, leaving your skin even more dehydrated.
Hyaluronic acid and retinol pair well with each other, Adel says. If anything, Adel suggests that using the two ingredients together is “a great way to potentially counter some of the irritation and dryness that you can get with using retinol.” In practice, she recommends applying your hyaluronic acid product first.
For maximum absorption, serums should be applied to freshly cleansed skin. Apply the thinnest facial serum first, or, if serums are the same consistency, start by addressing your primary skin concern. Massage a few drops into the skin, then wait until absorbed before applying your secondary serum.
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
Hyaluronic acid is the skin saviour that every beginner needs in their routine. This lightweight serum boasts a hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 duo to leave skin soft, smooth and free of fine lines. Use in the AM and PM before oils and creams.
Wait for the serum to absorb: Give the serum some time to absorb into your skin. This usually takes a few minutes. You'll know the serum has been absorbed when your skin feels soft and smooth. Apply moisturizer: Once the serum has been absorbed, apply your moisturizer on top of it.
If you're looking to tackle signs of ageing without breaking the bank, The Ordinary is the brand to turn to for your mature skin routine. Whether you're looking for a mature skin serum with retinol, suffer with discolouration, or want to top up with hydration, there's a product for you from The Ordinary.
Too many layers of HA can leave a film on the surface, blocking pores and potentially leading to breakouts. Less can truly be more—especially when it comes to HA.
If you have dehydrated skin, use hyaluronic acid serum both in the morning and at night. In the morning, it might help hydrate your skin and prepare it for the day ahead. At night, it might help repair and rejuvenate your skin while you sleep. Be sure to follow up with a moisturizer to lock in the hydration.
Layering vitamin C and hyaluronic acid serums
To layer vitamin C and hyaluronic acid serums, always apply vitamin C first to cleansed, dry skin. Be sure to leave time for your vitamin C to sink in, then follow up with your hyaluronic acid.
HA provides hydration, which can counteract the potential drying effects of retinoids. Since Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is a water-based serum, it would be applied first and then after, you would apply retinoids, such as Retinol 1% in Squalane, as it's an anhydrous formulation.
Hyaluronic acid should be layered before retinol in case of dry or sensitive skin, as it helps create a barrier between retinol and your skin, offsetting irritation. Must-mention: let your hyaluronic acid serum dry before following with retinol as, if applied to damp skin, there's a higher risk of redness and dryness.
“Hyaluronic acid plays well with most ingredients, while caution must be taken when using retinol in combination with alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxy acids, benzoyl peroxide, and some types of vitamin C.” Linkner echoes the tip about avoiding vitamin C.
Don't worry. Hyaluronic acid is acidic by name, but not by nature and won't exfoliate the skin or supercharge its turnover. For this reason, it's perfectly fine to use hyaluronic acid every day. “I would recommend using it once or twice a day,” says Dr Hextall.
After rinsing off your cleanser, simply massage your hyaluronic acid serum first on damp skin and allow it to soak in. Once dry, top with your vitamin C serum and finish off with a moisturizer. *The probiotic in this formula is nonviable.
The most common adverse effects associated with hyaluronic acid filler are pain, bruising, redness, itching, and swelling. These side effects are self-limited and typically last no more than seven days.