How to Safely Combine Hyaluronic Acid and Glycolic Acid in Skincare

Can You Use Hyaluronic Acid and Glycolic Acid Together? When it comes to skincare, combining products with different benefits can elevate your routine. You may wonder: can you use hyaluronic acid and glycolic acid together? While both ingredients are acids, they serve distinct purposes in skincare. In this article, we’ll explore how to use them together effectively, the benefits of layering them, and any precautions to consider. Let’s dive into the power of these two skincare superstars. What Goes First: Glycolic Acid or Hyaluronic Acid? Even though both glycolic acid and hyaluronic acid are acids, their roles in your skincare routine differ greatly. Glycolic acid is a member of the Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) family. It is a chemical exfoliant that helps remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. By sloughing off the top layer of skin, glycolic acid reveals fresher, smoother skin underneath. It also helps with oil control and the prevention of acne breakouts caused by clogged pores. Given that glycolic acid exfoliates the skin, it should generally be used first in your skincare routine. When applied before hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid clears away dead skin and debris, allowing hyaluronic acid to penetrate deeper into the skin for maximum hydration. This layering ensures that the hyaluronic acid will be more effective at moisturizing the newly revealed skin. However, if your skin tends to be sensitive or feels tight after exfoliating, you might want to reverse the order. In this case, apply hyaluronic acid first to hydrate and protect your skin barrier. Follow this with glycolic acid to exfoliate. This method ensures that your skin is well-moisturized before exfoliating, preventing excessive dryness and irritation. What Not to Mix with Glycolic Acid Glycolic acid is an exfoliating powerhouse, but it does not play well with certain other ingredients. For instance, combining glycolic acid with other exfoliants, like lactic acid (another AHA) or salicylic acid (a Beta Hydroxy Acid, or BHA), can lead to over-exfoliation. Over-exfoliating can leave the skin feeling dry, tight, and sensitive, stripping it of its natural moisture. Furthermore, when glycolic acid is mixed with niacinamide, the pH imbalance may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. Glycolic acid works best at a low pH, while niacinamide prefers a more neutral pH. Combining these two ingredients may neutralize their effectiveness and cause adverse reactions. It’s essential to pay attention to how your skin responds to different ingredients. For more details on what not to mix with glycolic acid, check out our detailed blog post. It’s crucial to create a skincare routine that works in harmony with your skin type and its unique needs. Can You Use Glycolic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid, and Niacinamide Together? Yes, you can use all three ingredients—glycolic acid, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide—together, but timing and order matter. To get the best results, apply them in the right sequence and use them at the right times of day. Here’s a simple routine to follow: Cleansing: Start with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and makeup. Exfoliate with Glycolic Acid: After cleansing, apply a toner or serum that contains glycolic acid. This will exfoliate the skin and help remove dead skin cells. Hydrate with Hyaluronic Acid: Next, layer on a serum containing hyaluronic acid. This ingredient helps retain moisture, ensuring your skin stays hydrated throughout the day. Apply Niacinamide in the Evening: Niacinamide is best used in the evening. As an antioxidant, it helps repair and protect the skin overnight, reducing inflammation and repairing any damage caused by environmental stressors. If you prefer a more straightforward approach, look for products that combine glycolic acid and hyaluronic acid. Some formulations even contain all three ingredients, providing a more efficient and powerful result. However, personal preference plays a key role here, and it’s all about what works best for your skin. What Should You Put on Your Face After Glycolic Acid? After using glycolic acid, it’s vital to follow up with a hydrating product. Since glycolic acid exfoliates the skin, applying a hydrating serum or moisturizer is crucial. Hyaluronic acid is an excellent choice, as it helps replenish moisture and keeps your skin plump and hydrated. In addition to moisturizing, don’t forget to protect your skin with sunscreen. Glycolic acid can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, and UV exposure can lead to sun damage. Using a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher will help shield your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Strengthening your skin barrier post-exfoliation is key. Hydrating and protecting the skin allows it to retain moisture, repair itself, and fend off environmental stressors like pollution and free radicals. Glycolic Acid or Hyaluronic Acid: Which Is Better for Wrinkles? Both glycolic acid and hyaluronic acid can help with the appearance of wrinkles, but in different ways. Glycolic acid works by exfoliating the skin and removing the outermost layer of dead skin cells. This process reveals fresher, younger-looking skin and can minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Hyaluronic acid, on the other hand, is a humectant, which means it draws moisture into the skin. It helps plump up the skin and can smooth out dehydration lines, which are often mistaken for signs of aging. When your skin is hydrated, fine lines and wrinkles appear less noticeable. By using both ingredients together, you address wrinkles from two angles: glycolic acid helps reveal smoother skin, and hyaluronic acid keeps it moisturized and plump. This combination can leave you with a more youthful, radiant complexion. Can You Use Glycolic Acid Every Day? While glycolic acid is an effective exfoliant, how often you use it depends on your skin type. If you have dry or sensitive skin, it’s best to start by using glycolic acid every other day. This prevents your skin from becoming overly dry or irritated. The concentration of glycolic acid in your products also plays a role. Higher concentrations can be more potent, so it’s essential to use them cautiously, especially if you’re new to glycolic acid. If you’re unsure about how often to use it, consulting a dermatologist is always a good idea. If you’re just starting with glycolic acid, it’s wise to introduce it slowly into your skincare routine. Begin with a lower concentration and use it once or twice a week. Gradually increase the frequency as your skin builds tolerance to the acid. Final Thoughts on Using Hyaluronic Acid and Glycolic Acid Together Hyaluronic acid and glycolic acid are both powerful skincare ingredients that can work wonders when used together. Glycolic acid provides chemical exfoliation, removing dead skin cells and giving your complexion a radiant boost. Meanwhile, hyaluronic acid helps to hydrate the skin, preventing dehydration and promoting a plump, youthful appearance. To maximize the benefits of both acids, apply glycolic acid first to exfoliate, followed by hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture. Make sure to adjust the order of application if your skin is sensitive. For the best results, use a combination of glycolic acid, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide to target multiple skin concerns, such as dehydration, acne, and aging. As with any new skincare product, always patch-test new ingredients and products to ensure your skin can tolerate them. When used correctly, glycolic acid and hyaluronic acid can help you achieve smooth, hydrated, and glowing skin. So, are you ready to try this dynamic duo in your skincare routine? Don’t hesitate to experiment with different products and formulations to find the perfect balance for your skin type. If you have any questions or want to dive deeper into skincare tips, be sure to follow us on Instagram for more expert advice. Your healthiest skin is just a routine away!