If there's one thing you should be clear about regarding retinol and glycolic acid , it's this: they are two spectacular active ingredients, but they shouldn't be used together in the same routine .
If we start from there, the rest is a piece of cake. Let's explain it in detail so there's no room for doubt.
Retinol: the king of cell renewal
Retinol is, without a doubt, one of the most powerful anti-aging cosmetic active ingredients available. Its function is to stimulate cell renewal , helping the skin regain its best state.
Benefits of retinol:
✔ Reduces wrinkles and expression lines.
✔ Unifies tone, reducing spots and imperfections.
✔ Regulates oil production, ideal for oily skin.
✔ Promotes the production of collagen and elastin.
Of course, it requires patience . It's not a "I'll put it on today and have perfect skin tomorrow" product. The effects are seen with consistency and, above all, with proper hydration and mandatory sun protection .
Glycolic acid: the secret to radiance
If you're looking for brighter, more even skin without uneven texture, glycolic acid is your best ally. It's an alpha-hydroxy acid ( AHA ) that gently exfoliates the skin , removing dead cells and revealing a more radiant complexion.
Benefits of glycolic acid:
✔ Lightens spots and evens out tone.
✔ Exfoliates without granules (goodbye to aggressive physical exfoliants).
✔ Provides juiciness and luminosity.
✔ Stimulates collagen production.
✔ Deeply hydrates the skin.
But be careful : don't apply it the same night as retinol . Using them together can irritate your skin, make it more sensitive, and even dehydrate it.
How to combine them without damaging the skin?
In the morning:
-
Clean with a mild cleanser.
-
Hyaluronic acid for maximum hydration.
-
Vitamin C , antioxidant and depigmentant.
-
Moisturizing cream .
- Sunscreen (a must!).
At night (alternating active ingredients for maximum effectiveness):
Night 1: Retinol2
- Double cleansing : cleansing oil + cleansing mousse.3
- Hyaluronic acid on moist skin.
- Wait 30 minutes before applying retinol (contact with water may cause irritation).
- Apply retinol (4-6 drops on the face, avoiding the neck, décolleté and eye area).
- Wait 5 minutes and apply moisturizer .
Night 2: Glycolic Acid
- Double cleansing : cleansing oil + cleansing mousse.
- Hyaluronic acid .
- Apply glycolic acid (no need to wait, just the absorption time between products).
- Seal with moisturizer and niacinamide .
Niacinamide every night : Whether it's retinol or glycolic night, this ingredient helps soothe skin and prevent the appearance of spots.
Why alternate them and not use them together?
Simple: they're too potent together and can sensitize your skin . If you overuse acids, you could end up with irritated, dehydrated skin and even more blemishes (yes, the exact opposite of what you wanted).
Golden rule: One night retinol , one night glycolic . This way you get the best of both worlds without disrupting your skin barrier.
From what age can you use them?
Glycolic Acid : Suitable for all ages, even those over 25, to improve texture and radiance.
Retinol : recommended from age 30 , although in cases of acne or very damaged skin, it can be added earlier.
If you have never used acids, start slowly (twice a week and increase according to your skin's tolerance).
In summary:
✔ Do not mix retinol and glycolic acid in the same routine .
✔ Alternate one night with retinol and another with glycolic acid .
✔ Use sunscreen every morning (no excuses).
✔ Apply niacinamide every night to soothe your skin.
✔ Be consistent : the results are worth it.
Say goodbye to dark spots and dull skin with this routine. Ready for brighter, more even skin?
