We understand how important glowing skin is to you and unless you don’t look beyond the most basic cleanser and moisturizer
(in which case you sincerely need an upgrade to better, more specific products).
There is a good chance the products you use employ either vitamin C, retinol or hyaluronic acid that make your skin look at its glowing best.
These are very popular ingredients that go into making skincare products and they have very specific roles when it comes to nourishing your skin.
The benefits each of them offer are a welcome addition that you should look forward to adopting into your regular routine.
Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid are frequently found in top skincare products owing to their anti-aging benefits.
They both are repairing agents, using which daily could yield notable results including reduction in wrinkles and dark spots. Products with these two ingredients often come as moisturizers or serums.
It is a fact well established that UV radiation is bad for our skin.
In fact, it is so bad that about 80% of premature ageing of skin can be attributed to UV exposure.
Repeated such exposures result in a dull skin and materialize into signs of ageing.
Studies have shown that vitamin C protects skin from UV-induced damage by reducing the amount of free radical formation, which is counteracted by vitamin C’s antioxidant properties, and can also promote wound healing and prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
In addition, vitamin C has been suggested to reduce wrinkles and help repair age-related damage, while brightening the skin.
Hyaluronic acid is such a vital product in skincare because of its unique ability to retain moisture that it can then draw to the skin thanks to its hygroscopic properties that act as a moisturizer and makes the skin smoother.
Hyaluronic acid comes both in serum as well as in creams although the effectiveness of it depends on the process through which it is administered. For best results, hyaluronic acid should be paired with a suitable sunscreen to protect oneself from the deadly UV rays of the sun.
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What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a natural compound found in the skin that helps it keep rejuvenated and encourage skin cell renewal.
However, the most important property of hyaluronic acid perhaps is its property through which it can retain incredible amounts of water within it.
Hyaluronic acid, being a carbohydrate molecule is a natural component of the build of your skin and thanks to its water retention properties, is a key molecule involved in moisture control.
It is estimated that hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1000 times its own weight in water molecules.
Although hyaluronic acid is a natural component found in your skin, the ones that are used in manufacturing skin products are a synthetic version.
Hydration is not only the sole property of hyaluronic acid, it also doubles as an antioxidant that can protect your skin from the harsh rays of the sun and other natural chemicals that you may come in contact with in your day to day life.
Who is hyaluronic acid best for?
The best quality of hyaluronic acid perhaps is that it can be used regardless of your skin type.
While it is well established that dry and mature skin types benefit the most from it due to its hydrating and anti-ageing properties, it is also a very wise choice of moisturizer for people with oily and combinational skin.
Those types too need hydration, and coupled with the lightweight formulation of hyaluronic acid, it is the perfect solution for them since it is weightless but still provides the much-needed moisture.
Hyaluronic acid is also for sensitive and blemish-prone skin as it helps to calm skin, whilst protecting it with its antioxidant properties. It can also be used safely during pregnancy.
How do vitamin c, Retinol, and Hyaluronic acid benefit your skin?
First things first, let’s review exactly why vitamin c, retinol, and hyaluronic acid are staple skin care ingredients on their own.
Vitamin C, when used in skin care formulations, can result in a major difference in your skin tone.
It has been shown to brighten the skin and help neutralize damages caused by free radicals. For you to get the most out of vitamin C, consider using a serum.
Serums have the highest concentration of active ingredients and they are in smaller molecules that enable them to penetrate deeper into the levels of the skin and repair any damages previously done.
Retinol: If you are somewhat invested in skincare products, you are already familiar with Retinol.
Thus it is a perfect anti-ageing solution that not only helps maintain the suppleness of your skin but also gives it a wonderful glow.
If you are young and don’t worry about ageing skin as of it, retinol still can be a very useful compound to include in your list of skincare products since it also addresses a variety of other skin concerns including acne and uneven skin tone.
Retinol can deliver increased collagen production at prescription strength, improved tone, and even texture. Acne responds well to retinol.
Hyaluronic acid:
If you take a look at the most popular moisturizers of the day, you will find that almost all of them contain some concentration of Hyaluronic acid. This is due to the amazing quality of the compound to retain water within itself.
It provides your skin with the essential hydration and make it look dewy. Hyaluronic acid is a powerful moisturizing agent that can be used by everyone regardless of their skin type thanks to its gentle, gel-like texture and weightless presence.
Hyaluronic acid usually is used in a host of products including moisturizers and serums.
How does using all three together benefit your skin?
You can (and should!) combine all three ingredients within your routine. By using vitamin C, retinol, and hyaluronic acid together, you’ll receive the benefits of all three in one skin care routine.
It is an absolute necessity in responsible skincare to include these three compounds with such stellar benefits.
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Can vitamin C and Hyaluronic acid be used together?
Yes, they can be. Studies have suggested that an anti-aging skincare routine containing hyaluronic acid and vitamins (including vitamin C) significantly improves the biomechanical parameters of the skin, which includes wrinkles and skin texture, as well as elasticity, without notable adverse effects.
Using hyaluronic acid as a serum.
For effective anti-ageing measures, you should start by employing a serum before moisturizer.
This is a trick that works very well in preventing wrinkles and unwanted lines.
As we age, our natural hyaluronic acid levels deplete causing dryness and rough, lined skin. This is mainly caused by the loss of moisture because of the depleted hyaluronic acid.
By applying synthetic compounds of it topically, it works by restoring the moisture levels of the skin and smoothening the texture.
When you apply a hyaluronic acid serum to your skin, it acts like a sponge by attracting moisture to boost hydration on the surface of skin.
The moisture that hyaluronic acid attracts comes from your external environment, so it absorbs moisture from the air around you to leave skin plumped and hydrated.
How to use hyaluronic acid.
Hyaluronic acid, like most other skincare products, give the best results when applied regularly.
We recommend both morning and night, followed by a moisturizer to keep everything ‘locked in’.
Hyaluronic acid will draw moisture from the deeper layers of skin, bringing it to the surface and potentially exacerbating dry skin symptoms, so it’s imperative to follow with a moisturizer.
Which skin type suits hyaluronic acid?
Most skin types will benefit from hyaluronic acid’s moisture-boosting properties, which is why it’s included in a lot of skincare.
But dry and dehydrated skin types will notice the benefits most.
Why is it called an acid if it doesn’t exfoliate the skin?
Don’t let the name fool you. Even though it’s called an ‘acid’, hyaluronic acid is the complete opposite of glycolic, lactic and salicylic acids, and won’t exfoliate dead skin cells.
The name simply derives from the enzyme that synthesizes it, called ‘hyaluronic acid synthase’.
What should I be looking for on the label?
Whether you choose to go for ‘pure’ hyaluronic acid or a serum, opt for one that contains a variation of high and low molecular weight hyaluronic acids.
The varying molecular weights determine how far the hyaluronic acid will penetrate skin.
The smaller the molecule, the further the serum can penetrate skin, for hydration throughout skin’s layers and a visibly plumped-up effect.
When you’re looking at an ingredients list, she also says to keep an eye out for Sodium Hyaluronate. Sodium hyaluronate is a salt derivative of hyaluronic acid with all the same benefits, except it is more easily absorbed.
Look for a product containing both sodium hyaluronate and hyaluronic acid for the optimum hydration boost.
Benefits of using vitamin C as an ingredient for skincare.
Vitamin C has a host of awesome features that make it an essential ingredient in skincare products. Here we have listed ten most important properties of vitamin C that make it the most sought after product.
It is safe for most skin types.
Vitamin C has an excellent safety profile. Most people can use topical vitamin C for an extended period of time without experiencing any adverse reactions.
In rare cases, people who have hypersensitive skin may experience minor irritation.
Vitamin C is also safe to use in conjunction with other skin care actives, including alpha hydroxy acids, retinols, and SPF.
It hydrates the skin.
Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, one of the main vitamin C derivatives used in skin care, has been shown to have a hydrating effect on skin.
It decreases transepidermal water loss, allowing your skin to better retain moisture.
It brightens skintone.
Vitamin C can help fade pigmentation and smooth the skin’s surface to reduce dullness. This gives skin a youthful glow.
It helps reduce redness and even out skin tone.
Vitamin C has also been shown to treat a huge variety of inflammatory skin conditions. Minimizing redness can create a more even complexion.
It helps fade hyperpigmentation.
Hyperpigmentation — including sun spots, age spots, and melasma — occurs when melanin is overproduced in certain areas of the skin. It can also happen in areas where acne has healed.
Vitamin C application has been shown to impede melanin production. This can help fade dark spots and lead to a more even-toned complexion.
It reduces the appearance of under-eye circles.
Vitamin C serums can help smooth out fine lines by plumping and hydrating the under-eye area.
Although vitamin C is more effective at reducing overall redness, some people say that it can help alleviate discoloration associated with under-eye circles.
It promotes collagen production.
Vitamin C is well known for boosting collagen production. Collagen is a naturally occurring protein that depletes over time.
Lower levels of collagen can lead to fine lines and wrinkles.
It may help prevent skin sagging.
Collagen production is tied to skin elasticity and firmness. When your collagen levels begin to drop, your skin may begin to sag.
Applying a vitamin C serum may boost collagen production, resulting in an overall tightening effect.
It protects against sun damage.
Sun damage is caused by molecules called free radicals. These are atoms with a missing electron.
Free radicals search for other atoms from which they can “steal” an electron —and this can lead to significant damage to the skin. Vitamin C is rich in antioxidants.
Antioxidants protect healthy skin cells by “giving” these free radicals an electron, rendering them harmless.
It may help soothe sunburns.
In addition to minimizing redness, vitamin C accelerates cell turnover. This replaces the damaged cells with healthy new ones.
How to use a vitamin C serum.
Although vitamin C is well tolerated on most skin types, a potential reaction to certain skin types cannot be completely ruled out.
You should therefore always do a patch test to ascertain whether any given product possesses a risk of allergic reactions for you.
If you don’t know how to conduct one, here is a helpful guide:
- Select a small area of skin that is easy to conceal. Most people prefer doing the test on their forearms.
- Apply a small amount of the product you’re trying and wait for 24 hours.
- If there are no side effects, you can safely apply it to your face and other parts of the body. However, if you develop a rash or itchiness or any allergic reaction from the product on your forearm, immediately discontinue usage and wash the area with ample amounts of water.
- It is always a good idea, even after passing the patch test, to follow the instructions on the label when applying a product to your face.
Vitamin C is typically applied once or twice in a day. A good practice is to cleanse, tone, apply the vitamin C serum and then moisturize.
It can be safely used with other active ingredients that you regularly use although use alongside niacinamide may render vitamin C less effective.
Also, make sure to check your product’s best before date before application. If the product has darkened or otherwise changed color, it is advised not to use said product on the skin.
The vitamin C has likely oxidized and although it is perfectly safe, there will be no effect on your skin.
Frequency and proven benefits.
For sensitive skin, using vitamin C serum once a day is good enough whereas for oily skin you can use it twice a day. The results will depend what type of use you are looking for.
For instance, if you want your scars or dark spots to fade away, it can take a week or two for getting the clear skin you wanted.
For avoiding wrinkles, you will see that your skin is starting to look clean and healthy within a month of its use.
Therefore, the results might vary depending on the utility you need.
Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid.
Provides moisture and hydrates skin.
The benefits of hyaluronic acid are far more than most of us take cognizance of.
It provides a protective layer for your skin, preventing it from damage from the deadly UV radiation as well as helping keep the skin hydrated by controlling the level of moisture in our skin.
Despite being a large molecule, the acid has the ability of keeping even the top layer of skin smooth and hydrated.
The moisturizing and hydration keeps the skin firm and elastic. This is why hyaluronic acid is safe to use for acne scars, oily skin or even sensitive skin.
Plays impactful role in skin anti-aging.
As we grow old, pollution coupled with the deadly rays of the sun and careless diet damages the skin heavily.
Most times it results in a dull looking skin that is wrinkled and appears much older than it actually is.
You always find babies with soft and blissful skin. The reason is the presence of appropriate collagen fibers and hyaluronic acid.
As we age, we begin to lose these important ingredients that keep our skin supple and fresh.
Therefore external application of those ingredients is vital for us to keep having a skin that is soft, young and glows with radiance.
Hyaluronic acid helps in preventing wrinkles and lines in the face by keeping the moisture intact and vitamin C serum builds collagens to keep the skin firm and supple.
They are almost a match made in heaven when it comes to skin products.
Healthy skin for the go.
The antioxidant properties of hyaluronic acid and vitamin C serum act as a defense mechanism for the skin.
It provides a protective layer against sun damage and unwanted dirt for the skin.
This is why dermatologists often recommend hyaluronic acid for oily skin and acne prone skin. It also possesses anti-inflammatory properties that accelerates the skin healing process.
In short, if you want your skin to look healthy and young for long, incorporate using hyaluronic acid and vitamin C serum in your regular skin-care routine.
How to use both compounds?
Method one.
You can use a single product that has both vitamin C serum and hyaluronic acid in it. Both the content possesses similar benefits and hence the presence of them together will make the benefits more impactful.
This is the recommended approach if you don’t have much time for skin care.
Method two.
Use three separate products throughout the day. The products include using a Vitamin C serum in the beginning, applying a hyaluronic acid serum next followed by retinol cream or lotion.
This is the best approach to your skin care and is also the most recommended option among the dermatologists.
Method three.
You can also create a serum at home if you have the right tools and knowledge.
If you are not an expert in making DIY skin care products at home, we would recommend that you do not choose this option and simply go for method one or two for your regular skin care.
Skin type specific hyaluronic acid.
Oily skin.
Hyaluronic acid can be really useful to people with oily skin if used regularly. The reason for this is simple: the hyaluronic acid compound acts as a brilliant moisturizing agent without bothering the skin too much.
It is weightless and is not greasy which makes it a very compelling option. For oily skin type, one that regularly needs proper moisturizing, hyaluronic acid is a boon.
Acne prone skin.
Hyaluronic acid for acne prone skin can be beneficial as well. As already mentioned before the polysaccharide contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help in preventing and healing of acne.
You can also use hyaluronic acid for fast healing of your acne scars.
Sensitive skin.
For sensitive skin, it is recommended that you avoid the actual acid content but go for a derivative of sodium instead.
Hyaluronic acid serum may have side effects for the sensitive skin if not used carefully.
Drawbacks of using hyaluronic acid.
In some rare cases, we found that hyaluronic acid serum can make your skin dry. Some users also complain that they felt irritation after application. These are some of the only known hyaluronic acid side effects.
But as we’ve mentioned earlier, the cases are very rare. Since everyone’s skin is unique, before trying out any serums apply a small amount on your skin to see if it’s suitable for you or not.
Hyaluronic acid is found naturally in the body, so there are no proven side effects to applying it topically. However, because hyaluronic acid’s natural purpose is not for hydration, the molecules are often too big for skin absorption.
Some brands claim hydration benefits through hyaluronic acid but actually, the product is just sitting on the skin drawing out moisture for temporary benefits.
If you have extra sensitive skin, it’d be wise to do a quick test just to on the safer side. In case of any irritation, wash it off immediately with cold water.
How to use vitamin C and hyaluronic together.
Serums are applied before moisturizers and creams; as in terms of consistency, it’s better to layer from thinnest to thickest (while allowing enough time for them to dry in between).
After cleansing and toning your skin, vitamin C should be applied, due to its highly reactive properties.This will smooth and brighten skin.
Your hyaluronic acid serum/moisturizer or cream should be applied next. It will plump up your skin and make the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines less noticeable.
The final step of your skincare regime in the morning should be the application of SPF protection topically.
Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid (or a product that combines both) can also be applied at night, prior to going to sleep.
Step #1: Cleanse to start the day.
You may be thinking every routine starts the same way, and you’d be right. No matter which ingredients you plan to pair together, you need to start with a clean face.
However, you can’t just pick up any ol’ cleanser and hope for the best. Do your due diligence and make sure that you reach for a cleanser that’s formulated for your specific skin type.
Step #2: Apply vitamin C serum.
Using a vitamin C serum straight after washing your face is suggested as it can increase the penetration of the product to help you achieve the best results. Try using a serum that has a concentration of vitamin C 15% and upwards.
Step #3: Follow with hyaluronic acid serum.
Once you’ve given your vitamin C serum a moment or two to sink in, you’re free to move on to layering hyaluronic acid—or at least a hyaluronic acid serum—overtop.
Use one that combine hyaluronic acid with some degree of SPF protection. Those formulas not only locks in moisture but can also help protect your skin against daily aggressors. Double win.
Step #4: Cleanse again at night.
Hopefully you already know the drill, before heading to bed it’s time to wash your face again, even if you’re not wearing any makeup.
This is because your skin is exposed to aggressors like microscopic dirt and pollution particles over the course of the day.
When these particles mix with bacteria on your skin, they can clog your pores and lead to subsequent breakouts.
By removing dirt and impurities before they have a chance to wreak havoc, you can help ensure your skin looks and feels its best. In order to rid your skin of dirt, makeup and debris, we recommend using a micellar water.
Micellar waters boast gentle micelles which cluster together to effectively whisk away stubborn makeup and dirt in one fell swoop without harsh rubbing, scrubbing, or rinsing.
Step #5: Use retinol.
Retinol isn’t just for those with problematic skin. Anyone can use a retinol; the key is to start slow and work your way up.
Start with an over the counter retinol product of your choice just three nights a week.
You can increase frequency overtime if needed. No matter how often you’re using retinol, be sure you’re applying it to clean, dry skin.
Since retinol can cause skin sensitivity to sunlight, it’s better to apply it at night and follow with broad-spectrum sunscreen and additional sun protection measures during daytime hours.
This can include wearing protective clothing, seeking shade, and avoiding peak sun hours when rays are strongest.
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Step #6: Moisturize.
Anyone with experience using with retinol will know the multi-tasking ingredient can be seriously drying.
While gradually building up to a higher frequency can reduce how dry your skin becomes, it’s still an absolute necessity to moisturize afterwards.
As we mentioned before, you should always be using the right product for your skin type.
While dry skin types may need a heavier nighttime moisturizer, those with oily skin can opt for a formula that’s more lightweight.
How to make Hyaluronic acid serum.
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Just add 1g of powder to 100ml of water to make a thick gel this makes a 1% gel. If you need to keep for more than a few days please make sure you use a preservative.
How to make vitamin C serum at home.
Vitamin C plays an important role in skin health due to its antioxidant properties. Just think about everything our skin must work to fight against. Vitamin C aids in the repair and renewal of skin cells.
This repair and renewal helps keep our skin looking youthful and healthy.
Prep Time 5 minutes – Total Time 5 minutes.
Ingredients.
- 1 tsp vitamin C powder.
- 1 tsp filtered water.
- 1 TB aloe vera gel.
- 1/4 tsp vitamin E oil optional.
Instructions.
In a small bowl, combine the vitamin C powder and filtered water. Whisk the ingredients until the vitamin C powder is completely dissolved.
Once dissolved, stir in the aloe vera gel and vitamin E oil (d-alpha tocopherol).
If you want to keep you serum for longer than a week, you can add a preservative. You can use Phenoxyethanol at 1/2 or 1%.
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Vitamin E oil. (d-alpha tocopherol)
Pour the serum into a dark amber bottle (a funnel helps). Store the serum in the fridge for 1-2 weeks.
Around the two week mark you may notice the serum’s pH level change. Your serum may have a different color and consistency, depending on the vitamin C powder and aloe used to make this recipe.
To Use: Before bed, wash your face, then use a toner (if you use one), followed a small amount of this easy homemade vitamin C serum, and then a moisturizer.
Gently shake the serum bottle before each use. The serum will be thick. In the morning, rinse your face before applying makeup and/or stepping out the door. Vitamin C Serum shouldn’t be used during the day due to sun exposure.
Related questions.
Does hyaluronic acid work on wrinkles?
Hyaluronic acid can enhance moisture content beyond comparison to many other ingredients.
At the same time, it revitalizes skin’s outer surface layers, so they look and feel softer, smoother and radiantly hydrated. This instantly improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
What is the effect of hyaluronic acid on skin cells?
Hyaluronic Acid helps reduce the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles retaining moisture to the skin, creating a plumping effect.
When the skin is protected and hydrated, increased skin cell production can take place, as the skin isn’t busy fighting for hydration. This leads to smoother, plumper skin cells.
Quick Answers.
Is Hyaluronic acid good for dry skin?
This acid can penetrate the skin, bind the skin cells to water and make the skin supple, rejuvenated and beautiful. Hyaluronic acid serum is easy to apply on the skin surface is ideal for any skin type.
On top of that, this product fortifies the skin’s natural barriers enabling it to lock in moisture and keep your skin moist for longer. Therefore, if you want to have a glowing, naturally beautiful skin, consider using this serum.
Can Hyaluronic acid smooth my skin?
The Hyaluronic acid serum also gives your skin a smoother texture. The serum contains ingredients such as Vitamin C which is essential in ensuring that your skin gets a smooth natural finish that you can touch and see.
If you want better results, you should use this serum on a regular basis. However, ensure that you get the best quality serum in the market from reputable retailers.
Can Hyaluronic acid & Vitamin C strengthen skin?
HA serum can strengthen the skin’s natural defence mechanisms enabling the skin to defend itself against weather elements like sunlight, extreme heat and other environmental factors like dust and other pollutants.
You will have youthful looking skin, and the skin will be able to fight off wrinkle-causing elements.
Tighter skin, As it keeps the skin moist, this skin care product also helps tighten your skin, enhances the overall complexion and also firms the facial contours. This will ensure that you have a wrinkle free and youthful face.
Can Hyaluronic acid and Vitamin C Prevents breakouts?
Pimples, acne, and other skin breakouts are caused by overproduction of oil by the glands under the skin.
This oil attracts dust and clogs the skin pores leading to pimples. Hyaluronic acid helps in cleaning the pores and allows the body to sweat appropriately.
It also keeps the skin moist preventing dust from settling on the skin surface.
Stimulates skin cell regeneration.
This skin care product also helps encourage the production of collagen and elastin by the skin cells. These are the most important ingredients as far as skin elasticity is concerned.
This serum also promotes the regeneration of new skin cells. This will ensure that your skin stays healthy and maintains a more vibrant complexion.
