How to Layer Hyaluronic Acid with Other Serums

It’s hard sometimes to remember a time before serums made their way firmly into our skincare routine. There are A LOT to choose from nowadays, and don’t get us wrong, we are here for it, but the thing about serums and more importantly the ingredients found in their formulas is figuring out the best way to have them work effectively together.

So, without further a due, let’s dive into to finding how to layer hyaluronic acid with other serums. And don’t worry, you’ll soon have the hang of this skincare malarkey in no time!

What goes on first serum or hyaluronic acid?

When it comes to establishing a good serum layering skincare routine it is always a good idea to stick to one active ingredient. This can then be layered with hydrating and nourishing serum formulas containing hyaluronic acid and other ingredients such as vitamin E and glycerin.

It’s best to apply the serum containing the active ingredient, such as vitamin C or glycolic acid first. This will lead to the skin having some form of exfoliation with build-up of impurities and bacteria slough away. To then follow this with a serum enriched with hyaluronic acid will help soothe the skin as well as lock in moisture into the outer surface enabling the protective skin barrier is to remain healthy, balanced with the correct water and oil levels. By teaming active ingredients with skin-nourishing complimentary ingredients results in a routine that reaches optimal skin benefits and a healthy, super glowing complexion.

Don’t forget to do your research and find the best cocktail that you and your skin will adore, if you have any concerns, it’s best to consult with a doctor or dermatologist to avoid any unwanted irritations or allergic reactions.

Can you layer hyaluronic acid?

Absolutely, the beauty of hyaluronic acid is the fact it can be used by all skin types and plays nicely with every skincare ingredient. This is a trait that is remarkably unusual regarding almost all other ingredients due to their various pH levels working differently on the skin.

Due to the humectant properties of hyaluronic acid, it can draw moisturise into the lower layers of the skin, which is why it is always a good idea to apply hyaluronic acid onto skin that is still slightly damp. This will not only lock hydration into the skin, but you’ll also find any products applied afterwards will absorb quickly leading to you seeing results more rapidly than expected.

Can I use 2 different serums at the same time?

Yes, you can! As I have already suggested it is a good idea to use one serum containing an active ingredient, such as retinol, vitamin C and lactic acid for example. You can then follow this with a serum packed with nourishing ingredients such as vitamin E and hyaluronic acid.

When it comes to using different serums at the same time, I would suggest using no more than two at a time as this can become too much for the skin usually resulting in the products competing.

If, however, you have a selection of different serums containing various active and benefiting skin ingredients then alternating when you apply them will allow you to reap the rewards without complicating your skincare routine. For example, during your morning routine team a hyaluronic acid with a serum packed with vitamin C, then switch that for a retinol serum and hyaluronic acid serum duo for your evening routine. By making these simple swaps you’ll find the skin is left looking and feeling its best with no signs of irritation.

Should you use hyaluronic acid morning and night?

Yes! This is probably something I suggest for anyone wanting to see how impressive the benefits are of introducing hyaluronic acid into their everyday skincare routine. With thanks to the hydration given to the skin by this clever humectant ingredient you will keep the natural protective barrier functioning correctly with the right levels of water and oil. This will not only keep your skin supple, healthy, and youthful, but you will be able to combat any exposure from free radical damage that encounters your skin daily.

Do I need both serum and moisturiser?

This is very dependent on personal preferences and how you use your skincare routine. You can indeed use both, but you don’t necessarily need to, serums and moisturisers work differently on the skin and due to them having different consistencies, with serums coming as a light-weight gel formula which penetrates further into the dermis reaching the lower layers compared to moisturisers that are generally thicker, richer, and creamy in consistency and tend to remain on the outer surface.

Should I use toner before hyaluronic acid?

When performing your skincare routine, it is important to remember the order you apply the products play a vital role in ensuring you are getting the best out of all your hard work. Using a toner would naturally be used before hyaluronic acid as generally speaking, the selection of products you would find this humectant are face mists, essences, serums, and moisturisers, all of which tend to be at the end of your skincare routine.

Which serum do I put on first?

As a rule, it is considered a good idea for serums to be the first product to touch the skin after cleansing and using a toner, especially if the formula contains a chemical exfoliant, such as glycolic acid and lactic acid.

If you are using two different serums in your routine, I would suggest applying the serum containing the active ingredient first followed by the serum enriched in hyaluronic acid as this will allow the first serum to get to work absorbing into the lower layers before the second helps lock hydration into the skin leaving you glowing and full of youthful bounce.

Can you use hyaluronic acid every day?

Yes, believe it or not, you can indeed use it every day! This will not only keep the skin constantly hydrated throughout the day and night. When your skin’s protective barrier can function properly it can ward off further damage caused by free radicals, such as pollution, exposure to UV light and other environmental aggressors. You’ll also find that any skincare products applied after will absorb quickly and show results in half the expected time.

See, I told you, you'd have a better understanding of how all this works, but if you have any questions come and follow us on Instagram, our experts are always there to help. And if skincare is your thing, you'll love our new YouTube episodes on The Green Sofa!