Polyglutamic acid and retinol both have a positive influence on skin, but in very different ways. While both are important for healthy skin, it’s important to not use them at the same time, as they counteract each other. Retinol is an active form of vitamin A that has been shown to improve the appearance of fine lines, enlarged pores, and acne scars when used consistently and properly. As you probably know by now, glutamic acid is one of many types of acids found in skincare products. This particular type of acid has numerous benefits for your skin; however, using it along with retinol negates its effects completely. Read on to learn more about how these two ingredients differ and what the best way to use them together without neutralizing their effects on your skin...
What is Polyglutamic Acid?
Polyglutamic acid is a type of protein acid that is found in many types of skincare products, including cleansers, exfoliants, and moisturizers. It is one of many acids commonly used in skincare products and is often paired with AHAs, BHAs, and PHA’s. When applied to the skin, polyglutamic acid penetrates the surface and works to remove dead skin cells and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Polyglutamic acid also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for treating acne and rosacea. Additionally, this acid can help with sun damage and hyperpigmentation. As a protein, polyglutamic acid is a humectant and attracts water by osmosis, which helps your skin stay hydrated and plump.
What is Retinol?
Retinol is a form of vitamin A that has been proven to improve the appearance of fine lines, enlarged pores, and acne scars when used consistently and properly. Vitamin A is an essential nutrient for your skin, and retinol is its active form. When applied to the skin, retinol works to stimulate collagen, increase cell turnover, and increase hydration. It also has anti-aging properties and can increase the strength of your skin’s barrier. Retinol can be used to treat acne, sun damage, and hyperpigmentation as well as help signs of aging. When you first start using a retinol product, you might experience redness, dryness, and peeling of the skin. These side effects are normal and will lessen over time. You should make sure to follow up your skin care routine with sunscreen, especially if you have very sensitive skin.
How is Polyglutamic Acid Different from Retinol?
As mentioned above, polyglutamic acid and retinol are both acids that are commonly used in skincare products. While they both have anti-aging properties and can improve the appearance of your skin, they work in different ways and have different benefits. As a protein acid, polyglutamic acid is water-soluble and penetrates the skin’s surface. It can be found in many types of skincare products, including cleansers, moisturizers, and exfoliants. Polyglutamic acid has anti-inflammatory properties and can help with acne and hyperpigmentation. It also has humectant properties and can help with sun damage and dry skin. Retinol is a form of vitamin A that has been proven to improve the appearance of fine lines, enlarged pores, and acne scars when used consistently and properly. Retinol is fat-soluble, which means it can’t penetrate the surface of your skin. Instead, it goes deeper into your pores and follicles where it works to reduce acne and improve the appearance of your pores.
How to Use Retinol and Polyglutamic Acid Together
While both retinol and polyglutamic acid are beneficial for your skin, using them together will actually negate their effects. Retinol is fat-soluble, meaning it doesn’t penetrate the skin’s surface. Polyglutamic acid, on the other hand, is water-soluble and penetrates the skin. When applied to the skin, the two will negate each other’s effects and cause no change in your skin. While it’s important to use retinol and polyglutamic acid together, you should be careful using both of them. You can space out the applications. Make sure to clean your skin thoroughly before applying each product. First, use a cleanser to remove dirt, makeup, and other impurities. Next, pat your face dry and apply retinol then polyglutamic acid.
Conclusion
As you’ve probably figured out by now, polyglutamic acid and retinol are two very different types of acids that can have a positive influence on your skin, but only when used properly. Retinol is a form of vitamin A that works to stimulate collagen, increase cell turnover, and increase hydration. Polyglutamic acid is a type of protein acid that penetrates the skin’s surface and works to remove dead skin cells and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. When applied to the skin, the two will negate each other’s effects, so it’s important to follow the tips outlined above to get the most out of both ingredients.