When it comes to the retinol vs hyaluronic acid skin care debate, most people have their favorite between the two.

But which one should you be using for your skin type? Is one better than the other? They both have obvious benefits, but what about side effects? 

In this article, we answer all these questions and more. We discuss each skincare product, and its benefits, in detail. Continue reading for our in-depth comparison of hyaluronic acid vs retinol. 

Retinol vs Hyaluronic Acid (Compared) 

	Retinol	Hyaluronic Acid
Purpose	Increases production of collagen	Moisturizes and hydrates skin
Benefits	Reduces signs of aging, sun damage, and other skin trauma.	Is an effective antioxidant, speeds up skin healing, and reduces inflamed blood vessels.
Possible Side-effects	Dryness and irritationSkin discolorationSun sensitivity RednessSwellingCrustingBlistering	Very rare to experience side effects.
Results	It can take months to see the results of using it on your skin.	You can see visible results within minutes, depending on the product.
Where to Buy	Over the counter. But stronger concentrations need a prescription.	Over the counter. Very rarely needs a prescription.
Form	Cream, gel, moisturizer, and serum. Can be found in some make-up products.	Moisturizer, oral, medication, injectable, serum, and some make-up products.

Which One Should You Use? Retinol vs Hyaluronic Acid

Deciding between retinol and hyaluronic acid can be tough. But your skin type and skin needs determine which you should use.

Hyaluronic acid works to hydrate and moisturize, while retinol increases collagen and elastin production. While hyaluronic acid works best on dry skin, retinol works best on oily skin.

But you may not have to choose between retinol vs hyaluronic acid as they can work great together, too. 

Retinol

The primary purpose of retinol is to increase collagen and elastin production in the skin. 

This increase in levels reduces signs of skin aging and improves skin color by increasing the production of new blood vessels.

Retinol comes from Vitamin A and naturally occurs in vegetables, dairy, and fish. 

It also appears in many forms, including cream, gel, moisturizer, and serum. You can even find it in some make-up products. 

When used topically (as a cream, for example), it changes into retinoic acid. This acid is what has made retinol so popular as a skincare product as it has anti-aging capabilities.

When using it in its pure form, you should mix retinol with your regular moisturizer or apply it after moisturizing your face.

Potential Benefits Of Retinol

Retinol is ideal for sun damage, skin trauma, and skin aging. It increases the production of collagen and elastin in the skin. This promotes healthier, younger-looking skin and faster skin healing. 

Retinol unclogs and tightens pores, which reduces and prevents acne. It also fades age spots and softens rough skin patches.

Essentially, retinol can:

• speed up the skin’s natural regenerating and shedding process
• stimulate the production of elastin and collagen
• reduce pigmentation
• tighten pores
• regulate oil production
• treat acne

Possible Side Effects Of Retinol

Various side effects can be associated with the use of retinol. These depend on dosage and skin type.

In other words, certain skin types should use less retinol than others. Those with sensitive or dry skin should use the lowest possible dose. 

If you have oily skin, you should be able to use a higher dose without any issues. Normal skin falls somewhere in the middle of oily and dry skin.

Possible side-effects include:

• peeling
• redness
• dryness
• irritation
• swelling
• blistering
• sun sensitivity
• skin discoloration

To avoid these side effects, it’s best to start slow. Try a low dose, once or twice a week, and then gradually increase it from there. If you notice any redness or other side effects, lower your dose. 

Retinol Summary

Pros

• Increases production of collagen and elastin
• Speeds up the shedding and regeneration process of the skin
• Reduces sun damage and pigmentation
• Reduces signs of skin aging

Cons 

• Should be taken in moderation and according to skin type
• Possible adverse side-effects may occur 

Hyaluronic Acid

The main purpose of hyaluronic acid (HA) is to moisturize and hydrate the skin. It helps retain water, which prevents the skin from drying out.

HA is a naturally produced molecule in the human body that’s mostly found in the skin. But it also occurs along the joints and cartilages on bones. 

It is made from sugar molecules and amino acids and draws in water. This means that it hydrates and moisturizes tissues like the skin. 

The production of HA decreases as we age, which is why skincare products with this acid are so important. These products come in many forms, including moisturizers, oral supplements, medications, injectables, and serums. It’s also found in some make-up products.

It’s rare to need a prescription for this, and you can get it over-the-counter. This is one of the gentlest skincare elements around, and it’s suitable for all skin types. 

For use, you should apply it to clean and damp (or wet) skin. 

Potential Benefits Of Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid works best for dry and damaged skin. 

It acts as an effective antioxidant. This reduces free radicals and protects against sun damage. But remember, you should not use it in place of sunscreen. 

It also increases nutrients and other compounds in damaged areas on the skin. This speeds up healing and regrowth. 

Another benefit of hyaluronic acid is its ability to aid with pain relief and inflammation. It does this by reducing inflamed blood vessels.

Benefits of using HA can include:

• increasing moisture in the skin
• acting as an effective antioxidant
• speeding up skin healing
• reducing inflamed blood vessels, which aids pain relief
• reducing tissue damage and aging

Possible Side Effects Of Hyaluronic Acid

It’s rare to experience adverse effects to HA since the body naturally produces it. Any side effects are usually due to other ingredients in the products.

For this reason, you should read the list of ingredients carefully and read up on their side effects or benefits. 

There is one possible side effect of overuse. Too much HA could dehydrate the skin. To compound this, use an HA that contains an emollient like jojoba oil. 

Hyaluronic Acid Summary

Pros

• It will leave skin plump, smooth, and revitalized
• Can be used by all skin types
• Great for nourishing acne-prone skin
• Helps with pain relief by reducing inflamed blood vessels

Cons

• Too much HA might dehydrate the skin

Final Thoughts: Retinol vs Hyaluronic Acid?

As you can see, both cosmetic elements have their benefits. And when used together, they may form the ultimate skincare package!

HA is arguably safer to use since it’s a compound that is natural to the human body. Anyone can use HA, and side effects are a rare occurrence. 

It has amazing benefits that include skin regrowth and a reduction in free radicals. 

But, retinol can have serious side effects, especially for sensitive skin. The dosage needs to be carefully managed to avoid issues. 

Retinol has impressive benefits too. It increases the natural shedding and regrowth of skin. It also reduces visible signs of aging and sunspots. 

You can use both retinol and HA to treat acne-prone skin.  

No matter which product you decide on – retinol vs hyaluronic acid – it’s best to speak to your dermatologist. They can advise you on the best choice for your skin type.