Retin-A before & after photos
76%
32 reviews
Worth It Rating Our index shows the percentage of community members saying this was "Worth it". See cosmetic treatment rankings
Retin-A Cost $100 average cost

Using Retinoids, Antioxidants, Moisturisers Together?

I have been prescribed Retin-A 0.01% for acne, collagen and elastin production. I have also recently purchased the highly touted Bellaplex, plus Kiehl's Abyssine SPF25 moisturiser. For the past week, I've been applying them in that order, approximately 2 minutes apart in mornings and evernings. Could someone tell me if it's safe to be using all these things together? If so, how long should I leave between applying each one?

Asked 33 months ago by jay_en in London UK
Tags:
Sort 2 expert answers by:
+1

Layering product dilutes the active ingredients

It is safe to use those products together, however you may not be optimizing your rejuvination regimen. Retin-A really only needs to be used at night, as sunlight can inactivate the retinoid. Antioxidants work best during the day when free radicals are being generated. Furthermore, layering products will dilute the active ingredients. Sometimes my patients want to dilute their Retin-A because it is too drying or irritating, especially when they first start using it. My recommendation to you... more
Rebecca Lambert, MD
Naples Dermatologist
Use of this website and the posting of any reviews or other content on this website constitutes acceptance of the RealSelf® Terms of Service. The material on this site is for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment provided by a qualified health care provider. © 2011 RealSelf, Inc. All rights reserved.