Do you apply retin A before or after moisturizer?

Author: Dr. Zechariah Goyette  |  Last update: Friday, March 28, 2025

gradually. The first key with starting to integrate tretinoin is to know when to apply it. Tretinoin should be applied to the entire face nightly — AFTER washing your face and in combination with a moisturizer.

Should I apply moisturizer before or after tretinoin?

Moisturizer first, wait, then tretinoin: Apply your moisturizer, wait at least 15 minutes to allow it to absorb, and then proceed with tretinoin to avoid irritation. Then it's 'lights out'. Follow the tretinoin skincare routine steps below in this guide to build a regimen that will work for your complexion.

Can I put moisturizer on top of Retin-A?

Yes, moisturizing after using a retinol cream is generally recommended.

Should I apply retinol before or after moisturizer?

It's important to always start with clean, dry skin to make the most out of using retinol. Retinol penetrates the skin better and is more effective when applied after gently cleansing the skin with a mild face wash and toning it but before any moisturizer, since it acts as a treatment.

Does moisturizer reduce effectiveness of Retin-A?

Apply a base layer of your favourite moisturizer, then apply tretinoin. Studies have shown that the base layer does not dilute or reduce the efficacy of the retinoid, in fact it helps with tolerability. Look for ingredients such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid or squalene as a key moisturizing ingredient.

How To Apply Retinol To Achieve The Best Results

What is the sandwich method of tretinoin?

Option one: The sandwich technique

After washing your face, apply a layer of moisturiser. Allow it to dry down for 5-10 minutes. Then, apply a pea-sized amount of tretinoin to your entire face. Allow this to dry down for 5-10 minutes.

What order do you use retinol and moisturiser?

  • Step one: Cleansing. The first step of any skincare routine is cleansing, and what products you use can differ from morning to evening. ...
  • Step two: Exfoliating. ...
  • Step three: Serums and retinol. ...
  • Step four: Moisturiser and SPF.

What is the best nighttime moisturizer to use with tretinoin?

The La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 Multi-Purpose Balm.

It's a shea butter and glycerin-based balm, so it's super-rich and healing-- great for night routines. Tretinoin users have reviewed this product and named it the “holy grail of moisturizers.” It's helped countless people get through tretinoin irritation.

What is the best moisturizer for aging skin?

SkinCeuticals' Triple Lipid Restore is our top pick because it absorbs well and promises deep hydration while providing skin a youthful glow. Glow Recipe Plum Plump Hyaluronic Cream is a close second because it can moisturize and plump skin intensely. Aging is a beautiful thing, but change isn't always easy.

How long to leave retinol on face before moisturizer?

Retinol (leave to absorb for 10-20 minutes)

Retinol is also an ingredient that should be left to absorb sufficiently into the skin before following up with another product. “It is important to leave a 10-20 minute wait time before applying the next product.

Should you put tretinoin on your neck?

The skin on the neck is thinner and more sensitive, so it may not tolerate tretinoin well, causing irritation. However, if you want to address signs of ageing on your neck, you may benefit from using tretinoin there. To avoid irritation, start with a lower frequency on your neck and build up as your skin tolerates it.

Can you put hyaluronic acid over Retin-A?

Experts advise that individuals apply retinol first, then wait at least 30 minutes before applying hyaluronic acid. Retinol should be absorbed into your skin first and then use hyaluronic acid to hydrate and moisturize your skin in order to better tolerate the irritation caused by retinol.

What is the best skincare routine with tretinoin?

Use Mild Skincare Products: Tretinoin demands a lot of your skin, so use the gentlest possible version of everything else. That includes your moisturizer and cleanser. Don't Use Too Much Tretinoin: Make sure you're using the smallest possible amount of tretinoin cream to cover your skin. More isn't always better!

Do I need to wash tretinoin off in the morning?

Do I need to wash tretinoin off in the morning? Yes, it is recommended to wash your face every morning before applying vitamin C, your moisturizer and sunscreen with SPF 50.

Does tretinoin peeling ever stop?

Some people may notice that this side effect goes away within a few weeks of use, while others may have flaky skin for up to two months. Regardless of how long it takes to subside, tretinoin peeling is temporary and will go away once your skin gets used to the product.

Does moisturizer go before or after tretinoin?

Generally speaking, let tretinoin absorb and fully dry before applying moisturizer. However, if you and your licensed dermatology provider decide your skin needs more moisturizer, you can alter the application to meet your needs.

How long does tretinoin purge last?

Skin purging typically lasts anywhere between four to six weeks which is roughly in line with how long it takes for your skin cells to naturally turnover. During this phase, it might seem like your skin is getting worse but it should settle down and improve after you've passed this period.

What not to mix with tretinoin?

Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, it is especially important to avoid using the following skin products on the same area as tretinoin: Any other topical acne product or skin product containing a peeling agent (eg, benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, salicylic acid, or sulfur).

Is it better to put moisturizer before retinol?

Some dermatologists recommend applying a moisturizer first and then the retinoid. This is because some people's skin could be too dry or sensitive to apply it before any other products — especially if using a higher-strength product.

What is the sandwich method of retinol?

In short, the retinol sandwiching technique is as follows:

Apply a layer of moisturiser to damp skin. Allow this to dry completely. Apply your retinol. After giving retinol time to absorb, finish your skincare routine with a second layer of moisturiser.

What is the correct order for face routine?

  • Step 1: Cleansing. Start with the basics: skin cleansing. ...
  • Step 2: Exfoliation. Eliminate impurities and dead cells by carrying out an effective exfoliation. ...
  • Step 3: Mask. Apply a mask specific for you. ...
  • Step 4: Toner. ...
  • Step 5: Serum or concentrate. ...
  • Step 6: Eye contour. ...
  • Step 7: Moisturising cream. ...
  • Step 8: Sun protection!

What face moisturizer is best with tretinoin?

Three inexpensive moisturizers that our physicians love are Vanicream Daily Facial Lotion with Hyaluronic Acid, Neutrogena Hydroboost Gel, and The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid Serum. All three of these are affordable, non-comedogenic,and blend well with tretinoin.

Can you use tretinoin under eyes?

Yes, tretinoin can be used to treat dark circles under the eyes. It has been found to effectively reduce darkness related to pigment and improve overall skin texture. However, it's important to consult a dermatology provider before starting tretinoin treatment for dark circles.

How do I get the best results from tretinoin?

The most important thing you can do is to start using Tretinoin gradually. This is because Tretinoin is very potent which is why it gives great results. However, its strength means that it can also initially irritate the skin and even cause breakouts, also known as purging, initially.

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