Can I use 0.025% retin-a gel (prescribed) with a glutathione serum in my skincare routine?

Question

College student, 5’3”, 130 lbs.

Timothy Jochen, MD · Answer

Here's a response you can use:

Hi there! Yes, you can use 0.025% Retin-A gel along with a glutathione serum in your skincare routine, but it's important to use them correctly to avoid irritation.

Retin-A (tretinoin) is a powerful ingredient that promotes cell turnover and can help with a variety of skin concerns like acne and signs of aging. However, it can also be a bit drying and irritating, especially when you first start using it.

Glutathione is an antioxidant that helps brighten the skin and protect it from oxidative stress. It's generally gentle on the skin, so it should pair well with Retin-A.

To minimize any potential irritation, I’d recommend applying the Retin-A gel at night and using the glutathione serum in the morning. If you want to use both at night, you can apply the glutathione serum first, let it absorb completely, and then apply the Retin-A gel.

Always be sure to use sunscreen during the day, as Retin-A can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. If you notice any irritation, you might want to reduce the frequency of Retin-A application or consult with your dermatologist for personalized advice.

Nadir Qazi, DO · Answer

It's great that you're being mindful of combining different products in your routine.

Using a 0.025% Retin-A gel (prescribed) alongside a glutathione serum can be a beneficial addition to your skincare regimen, but there are a few important considerations to keep in mind to ensure you're getting the best results while minimizing any potential irritation.

Since Retin-A (tretinoin) can be potent and might cause some initial irritation, it's a good idea to start slowly. Begin by using it only a few times a week and gradually increase frequency as your skin becomes accustomed to it. This will reduce the chances of experiencing excessive dryness or redness when combining it with other products.

It's often recommended to use Retin-A in the evening, as sunlight can degrade its effectiveness. If you're planning to incorporate a glutathione serum, consider using it in the morning routine to avoid any potential interactions with the Retin-A.

Before introducing any new products into your routine, especially if you're using a prescription like Retin-A, it's a good idea to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional. They can provide personalized guidance based on your skin type, concerns, and the specific products you're using.

Whenever you're combining new products, it's a good practice to perform a patch test on a small area of skin to ensure you don't have any adverse reactions.

Both Retin-A and glutathione can potentially increase skin sensitivity to the sun. Using a good quality sunscreen during the day is crucial to protect your skin from UV rays. Also, keeping your skin well-hydrated with a suitable moisturizer can help mitigate any dryness that might result from using Retin-A.

As you start using both products together, pay attention to how your skin responds. If you notice any excessive dryness, redness, or irritation, it might be a sign to adjust your routine or usage frequency.

Remember, everyone's skin is different, and what works for one person might not work the same way for another. Taking a cautious and gradual approach to integrating new products into your routine is key to achieving the best results while maintaining the health and balance of your skin.

Can I use 0.025% retin-a gel (prescribed) with a glutathione serum in my skincare routine?

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Everything you need to know about Retin-A

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Can I use 0.025% retin-a gel (prescribed) with a glutathione serum in my skincare routine?

Answers (2)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Retin-A

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.