If there are two ingredients that have revolutionized skincare, they are retinol and hyaluronic acid. Both possess incredible properties, and although at first glance they may seem opposite, together they form the perfect combination for achieving healthy, hydrated, and rejuvenated skin. But how do you use them correctly? In what order do you apply them? We'll tell you everything here.
What does retinol do for your skin?
Retinol is one of the most studied active ingredients in cosmetics and dermatology thanks to its ability to:
- Stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, reducing wrinkles and expression lines.
- Unify skin tone, combating blemishes and post-inflammatory marks.
- Regulates sebum production, ideal for oily or acne-prone skin.
- Promote cell renewal, leaving the skin softer and brighter.
However, as a potent active ingredient, retinol can cause irritation, dryness, or flaking if not used correctly. Therefore, it's key to combine it with ingredients that soothe and strengthen the skin barrier.
To safely incorporate it into your routine, keep the following in mind:
- Always apply it to completely dry skin and only at night.
- After cleansing, wait at least 30 minutes before applying.
- Use it only on your face, avoiding your neck and décolleté, as these areas are more sensitive and can become easily irritated.
How to combine hyaluronic acid and retinol in your routine?
The order of application is key for both active ingredients to work properly and maximize their benefits. Here's the definitive guide to integrating them into your daily routine:
Morning routine:
- Facial cleansing.
- Apply hyaluronic acid to slightly damp skin.
- Use a vitamin C serum to provide antioxidants and radiance.
- Apply the eye contour.
- Seal in hydration with a regenerating cream.
- Finish with sunscreen (essential to prevent skin damage).
Night routine:
- Double cleansing to remove makeup and impurities.
- Apply hyaluronic acid to damp skin.
- Wait 30 minutes until the skin is completely dry.
- Apply eye contour to protect the area from the possible irritating effect of retinol.
- Apply 4 to 6 drops of retinol to your face, avoiding your neck and décolletage.
- Wait 5 minutes for the skin to absorb it.
- Apply a moisturizer to provide comfort and nourishment.
Benefits of combining these assets
The combination of hyaluronic acid and retinol in a facial routine offers spectacular results:
Deep hydration: Hyaluronic acid retains moisture in the skin thanks to its different molecular weights.
Regeneration and firmness : Retinol stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, improving the firmness and elasticity of the skin.
Improves tone and texture : Helps reduce blemishes, refines pores and provides a more uniform appearance.
Visible anti-aging effect : Skin looks smoother, more elastic and luminous.
Key tips
- Introduce retinol gradually: start by applying it 2 or 3 times a week and increase the frequency according to your skin's tolerance.
- Use sunscreen every morning: Retinol can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
- Avoid combining it with other acids or exfoliants in the same routine to prevent irritation.
- Hydrate your skin well: A moisturizer after using retinol is essential to maintain a healthy skin barrier.
If you follow these tips and are consistent, your skin will benefit fully from the combination of these two powerful ingredients.
Remember: facial care is a matter of consistency. Give your skin what it needs and it will thank you with a younger, healthier, and more radiant appearance!
