Can Hyaluronic Acid and Glycolic Acid be used together?
Yes, they are both called acids, but each has different benefits, and they work perfectly together. The question is, how exactly do hyaluronic acid and glycolic acid work together?
What are the specific benefits of incorporating both into your skincare routine? Stay tuned as we explore how you can benefit from the combination of these two powerful ingredients.
Which came first, glycolic acid or hyaluronic acid? When it comes to using hyaluronic acid and glycolic acid, while they are called acids, they are actually very different.
Glycolic acid is a member of the alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) family and exfoliates the top layer of skin, removing dead skin cells and debris while removing excess sebum, dirt, and bacteria from the pores. If not removed, pores can become clogged, leading to blackheads, blemishes, and acne.
Due to the exfoliating properties of glycolic acid, I recommend using it first, as you’ll find that subsequent hyaluronic acid-rich products will absorb into the skin quickly and effectively.
However, if you find that your skin type is prone to tightness and sensitivity, you can try using hyaluronic acid first and then glycolic acid to counteract this.
This way, you can ensure that your skin barrier is fully hydrated and can absorb every gram of water around your skin or other formulas, leaving your complexion constantly hydrated and radiant.
What Not to Mix with Glycolic Acid?
Since glycolic acid is a chemical exfoliant, it’s best not to mix it with other exfoliants, such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like lactic acid and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid.
By avoiding these ingredients together, you won’t overstress your skin and deprive it of the important water and oils it needs to stay healthy.
Using these acids together can cause your skin to become tight, uncomfortable, and dry, while overproduction of sebum (the natural oil in your skin) can lead to an oilier face. This can cause acne, blackheads, and other issues that cause impurities.
You’ll also find that it’s best to avoid using niacinamide and glycolic acid together, as the two have similar pH levels and can cause imbalances in your skin, often leading to allergic reactions.
If you want to learn more about what not to mix with glycolic acid, you can read a dedicated blog post. Can I use glycolic acid, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide together?
The short answer is: yes. The longer answer is that you can use all three ingredients together if you use them in the right order. What I mean by that is knowing what time of day to use which ingredient for the best results.
For example, after cleansing, you can use a high glycolic acid exfoliating toner to remove any residue and dead skin cells that remain on the surface of the skin. You can then use a serum rich in hyaluronic acid, which will help
keep the skin moisturized and hydrated throughout the day.
You may even find that certain product formulas that contain both ingredients work better than either ingredient alone. However, this also depends on your personal preference. As for using niacinamide in your daily skincare routine,
I recommend using it at night, as these powerful antioxidant and moisturizing properties can reverse any damage done to the skin during the day, leaving you feeling more plump and hydrated in the morning.
What should I apply to my face after using glycolic acid?
After using glycolic acid, it is best to apply a hydrating serum or cream that is rich in hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid. This way you can ensure that fresh and renewed skin cells benefit from the increased moisture that continues throughout the day. You will also notice that the skin’s protective barrier is strengthened and functioning properly. This ensures that it protects the skin and prevents damage caused by exposure to free radicals such as UV rays, pollution, and other environmental factors. After glycolic acid, another important product to apply to the skin is one with an SPF of 30 or higher to ensure protection from UVA and UVB rays that damage the skin. Which is better for wrinkles: glycolic acid or hyaluronic acid? The beauty of glycolic acid and hyaluronic acid is that you can use both at the same time! When dead skin cells build up, the complexion tends to appear dull, dry, and lackluster, and fine lines and wrinkles appear to be more severe than they really are. Chemical peels with glycolic acid exfoliate to reveal new, vibrant, youthful skin that minimizes the signs of aging.
When it comes to using hyaluronic acid, many people often confuse dehydrated lines on the skin with signs of premature aging. In this case, the extremely beneficial hydrating properties of hyaluronic acid ensure that the complexion remains plump, moisturized, and wrinkle-free.
As I mentioned earlier, you can use these two powerful ingredients individually or in a powerful formula that includes both.
Can glycolic acid be used daily?
Yes or no, that largely depends on your skin type, as those with dry, sensitive skin should use glycolic acid every other day to avoid dry skin. Of course, don’t forget that it’s always best to consult with a doctor or dermatologist to make sure new products are safe to use. Another thing to keep in mind is that the concentration of glycolic acid will affect how often you can use it. If this is your first time using glycolic acid, many experts recommend slowly introducing it into your routine to avoid unnecessary irritation or allergic reactions.
