Retinol vs Hyaluronic Acid: Expert Guide to Choosing the Right Skincare Ingredient
Vogue has released a comparison of retinol and hyaluronic acid (HA) for skincare. Dr. Maryam Zamani and Dr. Ariel Haus provide insights, noting that HA acts as a humectant ideal for dehydrated skin, while retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, enhances cell turnover and collagen production, addressing fine lines, acne, and pigmentation issues. HA delivers instant hydration, whereas retinol focuses on long-term improvements. Retinol is favored for fine lines and acne, while HA is beneficial during retinol application. For hyperpigmentation, retinol is effective, but the use of SPF and vitamin C is essential. HA is suitable for everyone, while retinol is recommended for those in their mid-to-late twenties dealing with photoaging or texture. Both can be combined, with HA applied prior to retinol. Suggested products include Medik8 Crystal Retinal 1 Serum and SkinCeuticals H.A. Intensifier.
Key facts
- Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that binds 1000 times its weight in water, ideal for dehydrated skin.
- Retinol is a vitamin A derivative that increases cell turnover and stimulates collagen, addressing fine lines, acne, and pigmentation.
- Dr. Ariel Haus: 'Hyaluronic acid gives the skin water; retinol gives the skin instructions.'
- Retinol requires two conversions to become retinoic acid, the biologically active form.
- Retinol should be used in the evening and followed by SPF the next day.
- Both ingredients can be used together; HA helps reduce retinol irritation.
- Beginners should start with 0.1-0.3% retinol, twice a week, building up over 8-12 weeks.
- Dr. Maryam Zamani recommends a broad-spectrum SPF every morning when using retinol.
- For hyperpigmentation, retinol alone is not enough; SPF and other ingredients like vitamin C are needed.
- Hyaluronic acid should be applied to damp skin and sealed with a moisturizer.
Entities
Artists
- Dr. Maryam Zamani
- Dr. Ariel Haus
Institutions
- Vogue
- Dr. Haus Dermatology
- Medik8
- SkinCeuticals
- Vichy
- Isdin
- L'Oreal Paris
- The Ordinary
Locations
- Harley Street
- London
- United Kingdom