Moisturizer with Retin-A - Apply Which First?

asked 1 year ago by USA2766 in Somewhere, USA
Latest answer by Mitchell Schwartz, MD
Question viewed 3,048 times
Tags: combination, moisturizer

The Retin-A package insert instructs patients to allow 15-30 mins between washing face and applying the cream. Due to dryness/irritation caused by the product, I would like to use a moisturizer in addition at some point in my nightly skincare routine, so long as doing so would not minimize the anti-aging effects of the Retin-A. Is it acceptable to introduce a moisturizer into a Retin-A regimen, and, if so, in what sequence should each product be applied, subsequent to face-washing?

7 answers to Moisturizer with Retin-A - Apply Which First?

Moisturizers after Retin-A....

Absolutely, a moisturized should be used with Retin-A. I like to recommend my patients wait 10 to 20 minutes after washing their face before apply a "pea-size" of their Retin-A to their face and neck. Then, they can apply their regular moisturizer immediately after, on top. There are no time restraints on applying a moisturizer post Retin-A. Retin-A's should ONLY BE USED AT NIGHT!!! Hope this helps. And remember to use sunscreen... more

Grant Stevens, MD
Los Angeles Plastic Surgeon

Retin-a and moisturizer

I frequently will suggest that a pea-sized amount of the retin-a be mixed with at least as much moisturizer as retin-a, and the mixture applied like a moisturizer to the face at bedtime. If irritation continues, then increase the ratio of moisturizer to medication. A simple over-the-counter noncomedogenic moisturizer such as Cetaphil will do.

Bryan K. Chen, MD
San Diego Dermatologist

Moisturizer under Retin A for photoaging

I recommend an oil-free non-comedogenic moisturizer for sensitive skin. You can apply it under the Retin A to minimize irritation. It will not interfere with the action of Retin A. Make sure you use the Retin A at night time only as it makes your skin sun sensitive and the sun degrades the active ingredient in the cream. Start using it twice a week and slowly build up to every night. As your skin gets used to it and as the weather gets warmer, you will be able... more

Emily Altman, MD
Short Hills Dermatologic Surgeon

Moisturize with Retinoids to minimize irritation

Apply the moisturizer first, then apply the topical retinoid; this should minimize any irritation with the retinoid without affecting the results.

Thomas W. Bender, III MD
Mobile Dermatologic Surgeon

How to Apply Retin-A (Tretinoin Cream)

Treatment with Retin-A (tretinoin cream) should be individualized with factors such as age, skin type, degree of photodamage, and presence of other skin conditions taken into consideration. Therapy should start with a lower concentration to minimize irritation and redness. Tretinoin cream should be applied in the evening to clean, dry skin at least 20 to 30 minutes after washing. The affected area is covered lightly and evenly. Temporary warmth or stinging may be felt. Sensitive areas to be... more

Mitchell Schwartz, MD
South Burlington Dermatologic Surgeon

Moisturizer wth Retin-A

It's great that you are using moisturizer with Retin-A. This is the key to your skin not becoming dry and irritated. Studies have shown that it doesn't matter which one, the moisturizer or the Retin A, you put on first. It's just important that you use moisturizer with retinoids. I generally recommend that they are used at least twice daily.

Dina D. Strachan, MD
New York Dermatologist

Retin A

Wash the face, wait 10 min. Then apply Retin A. Wait 10 min then you apply sunscreen, moisturizer and makeup.

Samir Shureih, MD
Baltimore Plastic Surgeon

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