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Do's & Don'ts: Your Guide to Layering Retinol

Retinol is a powerful skin care product that can counter the signs of aging skin and also combat acne. Adding to its appeal is the fact that retinol can be layered with or used in combination with certain face acids to treat a variety of skin care concerns.  

Why and How to Use Retinol

Retinol describes certain skin care products that contain vitamin A. Retinol can: 

  • Reduce oiliness 
  • Help clear acne 
  • Promote cell turnover 
  • Improve skin's texture 
  • Reduce fine lines 
  • Fade areas of darker pigmentation, including age spots 
  • Improve the appearance of naturally aged skin, even for those age 80 and older.

Retinol is best used: 

  • On just-cleansed skin 
  • As part of a nighttime routine 
  • On suitable skin types (it may not be right for those with dry or sensitive skin) 

For more on how to layer retinol into your skin care regimen in a way that's both safe and effective, be sure to read our  retinol guide.

Do Use Retinol with Hyaluronic Acid

Yes. Retinol and hyaluronic acid are safe and effective when used together and can be layered. 

Hyaluronic acid is found naturally in our skin and it's a powerful humectant, which means that it keeps skin hydrated and plump. Neither an AHA or a BHA, it's suitable for all skin types and is unlikely to cause irritation. 

How to Use Retinol with Hyaluronic Acid

Use the following steps:

  • After cleansing, first apply the retinol product. 
  • Let the retinol settle into your skin for about 20 minutes. 
  • Lightly mist your face with water, then immediately apply the hyaluronic acid. (Hyaluronic acid should always be applied to damp skin.)  

Don't Use Retinol with Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is a type of BHA. It's a chemical exfoliant that's extremely effective in treating oily and acne-prone skin because of its ability to penetrate deep into pores and remove dead skin cells and other debris.

Layering these products is not recommended. Because both retinol and salicylic acid are powerful active ingredients that, when used together, are likely to irritate skin.

Recommended Usage of Retinol and Salicylic Acid 

There are several ways you can use these products in conjunction:

  • Alternate them by using a retinol product at night and a salicylic acid product in the morning. 
  • Use a retinol product one day and a salicylic acid product the next. 
  • Apply retinol after using a salicylic acid cleanser that is thoroughly rinsed off your skin. 

Whichever way you choose, monitor your skin for signs of irritation. 

Don't Use Retinol and Glycolic Acid

Glycolic acid is an AHA that works by chemically exfoliating your skin. Derived from sugar cane, it offers a variety of benefits including a smoother and brighter complexion and the reduction of fine lines and pigmentation. It is suitable for all skin types.

Layering these products is not recommended. When used at the same time they are likely to irritate skin.

Recommended Usage of Retinol and Glycolic Acid

Alternate them by using a retinol product at night and a glycolic acid product in the morning. Or use a retinol product one day and a glycolic acid product the next. 

Do Use Retinol with Azelaic Acid

Yes. Retinol and azelaic acid are safe and effective when used together and can be layered.

Neither an AHA nor a BHA, azelaic acid is a chemical compound with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It's found naturally in certain plants and is useful in treating acne and other skin conditions, including rosacea.

How to Layer Retinol and Azelaic Acid

Use the following steps:

  • After cleansing, first apply the retinol product. 
  • Let the retinol settle into your skin for about 20 minutes. 
  • Apply the azelaic acid. 

Don't Use Retinol and Lactic Acid

Lactic acid is a common AHA that helps to exfoliate your skin. It's considered the gentlest of all the alpha-hydroxy acids. A naturally occurring substance in the body, it can improve skin's texture, reduce fine lines and wrinkles and minimize dark spots.

Layering these products is not recommended. When used at the same time they are likely to irritate skin.

Recommended Usage of Retinol and Lactic Acid

Alternate them by using a retinol product at night and a lactic acid product in the morning. Or use a retinol product one day and a glycolic acid product the next. 

Things to Remember

To ensure both safety and effectiveness when using retinol and any face acid, keep the following in mind:

  • Before starting any new skin care regimen, do your research. Some products, including retinol, are not recommended for certain skin types and conditions. 
  • If you haven't used retinol before, it's important to give your skin time to adjust. Begin by using it just once or twice a week and monitor your skin for signs of irritation. 
  • If you start to notice irritation, stop using the product at once. If there's no immediate improvement, seek a professional's opinion. 
  • Be mindful of any products you use on your skin. Always read the label and follow the instructions. 
  • Always apply sunscreen in the morning, especially when using retinol and face acids. 
  • Skin care products require consistent use before you see results, so be patient and stick with your routine. 

Depending on your skin type and conditions, using both retinol and a face acid may provide more noticeable results when used in conjunction than either product would by itself. As long as you do your research first and then closely monitor how your face looks and feels, it's a skin care routine worth exploring.