Should I use retinol or hyaluronic acid first?

Author: Rashad Wiegand  |  Last update: Tuesday, May 3, 2022

You should use hyaluronic acid after retinol. And to maximise the benefits, you should use retinol first and then wait at least 30 minutes before applying hyaluronic acid.

Do you apply retinol or hyaluronic acid first?

No matter which form you choose to incorporate your hyaluronic acid, it should be close to the final step in your routine. If you are using it in serum form, you'll apply it immediately after your retinol. If it is part of your moisturizer, it will be your last step.

Can I use retinol and hyaluronic acid together?

What Are the Benefits of Combining the Two? Good news: Retinol and hyaluronic acid actually have a synergistic effect. “They can be combined so that the benefits of retinol can be achieved more easily with concomitant use of hyaluronic acid, which helps to prevent retinol irritation,” says Hartman.

What should I apply after retinol?

After applying retinol to your skin (while it's dry) allow it to sit for 10-20 minutes. Mist your face with water or a facial spray, and then apply your hyaluronic acid. (HA serums are most effective when they're applied to damp skin.) Finally, follow your HA serum with a moisturizer right away.

What step do you apply retinol?

For prescription retinols, you'll typically apply this step onto dry skin before your moisturizer—but always check with your dermatologist. You may be advised to use it after a moisturizer, which buffers the retinol and lessens risk of irritation.

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What goes first retinol or niacinamide or hyaluronic acid?

When it comes to mixing all three together, the best order to apply them is by starting with retinol, followed by hyaluronic acid, and finally niacinamide. By applying retinol first onto a fully cleansed skin the ingredient can penetrate into the lower layers.

Does retinol go on before or after serum?

A formula with retinol, like the L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Triple Power Eye Treatment, should be applied after your serums and before moisturizer due to its consistency.

When should I apply hyaluronic acid serum?

Apply hyaluronic serums after cleansing (and toning, if you use a toner). Moisturizers go over the top. During the day, your SPF will be your last skincare step. Most people notice a difference in how their skin feels immediately after applying a hyaluronic acid product.

When should I use hyaluronic acid?

Moisturizers and serums are two of the most common forms of hyaluronic acid. Moisturizers. Use a moisturizer infused with hyaluronic acid at the time when you'd usually moisturize. Ideally, this would be 2 times a day and always after cleansing, exfoliating, or applying serums.

Does retinol come before or after moisturizer?

To use retinol before a moisturizer, wash the face and when completely dry, apply a pea-size amount of retinol. Retinol should not be used on damp skin because the skin will absorb more than required and cause irritation. Finish with a moisturizer to hydrate the skin and reduce the risk of irritation.

Can I use retinol every night?

Retinoids work best if you use them daily. Specifically, they should be used at night because some types are deactivated by light and air. It's important to start slowly and allow your skin time to adjust. Using too much too quickly can cause redness, dryness, and irritation.

Should you moisturize over retinol?

Regardless of your skin type or which product you use first, a layer of moisturizer should always be applied after retinoids.

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