However, Dr Downie says that people don’t usually react to hyaluronic acid. “It’s generally well tolerated. If you do experience any irritation, it may be because the product contains fragrance,” she comments.

How to use a hyaluronic acid serum in your routine:

The experts reveal the step-by-step method for applying hyaluronic acid serum.

Step 1: Dr Granite advises to cleanse with a gentle, barrier-supporting cleanser, and then leave the skin slightly damp. “I always recommend applying hyaluronic acid to slightly damp skin to maximise moisture retention,” she says.

Step 2: Dr Ejikeme says the next step is to apply a hydrating toner if it’s needed. “Then apply a few drops of the hyaluronic acid serum and press it into the skin with your fingertips,” she comments.

Step 3: “Follow immediately with a moisturiser to lock that water in. In the morning, finish with a broad-spectrum SPF, but at night, your night cream is your final step,” says Dr Granite.

What should you not mix with hyaluronic acid?

The good news is that hyaluronic acid tends to play well with other ingredients, making it easy to incorporate into your skincare routine with minimal side effects.

A general rule of thumb: “Hyaluronic acid can be mixed with water-soluble forms of retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs,” says Dr Downie. “You may even see that some hyaluronic-acid-based products are preformulated to include other ingredients, like vitamin B₅, niacinamide, peptides, or ceramides.”

What not to mix with hyaluronic acid? Oils, says Dr Downie. “When mixed with oil-based products (like hydrating facial oils), it can look very uneven on the skin,” she says.

If you mix your hyaluronic acid facial serum with something that it doesn’t work well with, you’ll know. “Some can pill when you put them on,” Dr Downie warns. “Either the hyaluronic acid itself, biopolymers, or other additives (or layering with other products) can contribute to pilling in some individuals.”

How long after using hyaluronic acid will I see results?

Dr Ejikeme reveals that skin will usually feel immediately more hydrated. “With regular use, you may see an improvement in plumpness and texture after just a few days,” she says.

Dr Granite agrees. “One of the lovely things about hyaluronic acid is that you can see benefits straight away. Skin looks fresher, feels softer, and has that dewy quality,” she comments. “With frequent use, you’ll notice lasting improvements in smoothness and plumpness, with best results after two to three months.”

What should you consider when shopping for hyaluronic acid?

Not all hyaluronic acid products are created the same, so make sure you’re buying the best one for you.

To buy an effective hyaluronic acid, “consider your skin type, needs, and what ingredients the serum is combined with,” says Dr Downie. For example, acne-prone skin likes lightweight, oil-free formulas with exfoliating acids. Sensitive skin types may want to see if their hyaluronic acid product has calming, soothing ingredients like aloe vera or glycerin.

Or, if you just want to buy a simple, pure hyaluronic acid product, look for ‘sodium hyaluronate’ or ‘hyaluronic acid’ at the beginning of the ingredients list, which will indicate it contains a high amount of the ingredient.

This article originally appeared on Glamour US.