Why Hyaluronic Acid and Retinol Make a Great Skincare Duo
Why Hyaluronic Acid and Retinol Are Worth Adding to Your Routine
Our own Dr. Samantha Ghiselli, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of SKN Dermatology, was recently featured in Prevention magazine to break down two of today’s most talked-about skincare ingredients: hyaluronic acid and retinol. In a world full of confusing trends, Dr. Ghiselli helps simplify what really works and how to use these actives safely in your routine.
Key Takeaways from the Prevention Feature
What they do:
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring molecule that attracts and holds moisture in the skin, helping improve hydration and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
Retinol (a form of vitamin A) supports cell turnover and collagen production, which can improve skin texture, tone, and signs of aging.
Why they work well together:
When layered correctly, hyaluronic acid adds hydration while retinol helps renew the skin — offering a balanced approach that’s effective yet gentle when used thoughtfully.
Tips from Dr. Ghiselli
Apply retinol every other night, followed by hyaluronic acid and a moisturizer to boost tolerance.
Use hyaluronic acid twice daily — especially under your sunscreen in the morning.
Always follow retinol use with broad-spectrum sunscreen, as it can increase sun sensitivity.
Bottom Line
This dermatologist-approved pairing is a great foundation for an effective skincare routine — whether you’re focused on aging concerns, texture, or overall skin health. And with the right usage strategy, you can enjoy the benefits without unnecessary irritation.