Beauty Elixir

Can you use Lactic Acid with Retinal?

Use with caution

Yes, but not at the same time.

Both Lactic Acid and Retinal speed up cell turnover. Used in the same routine they commonly cause redness, peeling and a damaged barrier, especially in India's heat and humidity. Alternate nights instead.

How to use them

Alternate nights, for example Lactic Acid on Monday, Wednesday and Friday and Retinal on Tuesday and Thursday, with a plain moisturiser night in between if your skin feels sensitive. If your skin is resilient and already used to both, you can try layering them: apply Lactic Acid first, wait a few minutes, then apply Retinal.

  1. 1
    CleanseGentle cleanser, pat dry
  2. AM
    Lactic Acid (day 1)then moisturiser and SPF 50
  3. PM
    Retinal (day 2)then moisturiser

What Lactic Acid does

A gentler AHA with a larger molecule. It exfoliates while also acting as a humectant, so it suits dry and sensitive skin that cannot tolerate glycolic acid.

Typical strength
5% – 10%
When
PM
Irritation
Best for
Dry, Normal And Sensitive skin

Everything that pairs with Lactic Acid →

What Retinal does

Retinaldehyde is one conversion step closer to retinoic acid than retinol, so it works faster than retinol while usually being gentler than tretinoin. It also has a mild antibacterial effect useful for acne.

Typical strength
0.05% – 0.2%
When
PM
Irritation
Best for
Normal, Oily, Combination And Dry skin

Everything that pairs with Retinal →

Trying to choose one? Read Lactic Acid vs Retinal: which is better for your skin.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use Lactic Acid and Retinal together?

Yes, but not at the same time. Both Lactic Acid and Retinal speed up cell turnover. Used in the same routine they commonly cause redness, peeling and a damaged barrier, especially in India's heat and humidity. Alternate nights instead.

Which goes first, Lactic Acid or Retinal?

Apply Lactic Acid first, then Retinal. The general rule is thinnest to thickest texture, and lowest pH first. For this pair, though, it is better not to layer them in the same routine at all.

Should I use Lactic Acid in the morning or at night?

Lactic Acid: best at night. Use 2–3 nights a week. It is good for beginners to exfoliation. Follow with a moisturiser, and wear SPF the next day.

Should I use Retinal in the morning or at night?

Retinal: best at night. Start at 0.05% two or three nights a week and build up slowly. Buffer with moisturiser if you are sensitive, and wear SPF daily.

Is Lactic Acid with Retinal safe during pregnancy?

Retinal is generally avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Ask your doctor about safer alternatives such as azelaic acid or bakuchiol.

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