Which type of cleanser and moisturizer should use while I'm on Retin-A (0.025%)? (photos)

Question

I'm not sure which cleanser and moisturizer to use since I'm on Retin A and I have oily/sensitive skin. I've heard 'cetaphil' is good, however it contains some unhealthy ingredients( Sodium Laureth Sulfate). What should I use?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Always opt for ceramide creams that have multi-function. While on Retin A, we advise our patients to use Elevase Moisture Booster twice daily to moisturize. The cream contains Opti-Ceramides. Best,Dr. Karamanoukian

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question because a lot of patients are ask these important questions when they start using retin-A.An Opti-Ceramide cream helps keep the skin properly moisturized when being treated with retin-A and retinoids. Mix together and apply the retin-A in a schedule directed by your physician. A great Opti-Ceramide is Elevase Moisture Booster (see link below). Clarase is also an excellent choice for a daily cleansing regimen. This product is also from Kare Skin. Both are physician formulated products.

Kathleen J. Smith, MD · Answer

The cleanser depends on the how oily or dry your skin is. If you do not have any problems with dryness or have oily skin you may get additional benefit from a benzyl peroxide cleanser. However, if you have skin that has dry patches, but a significant problem with white or black heads you might try a salicylic acid was 2% or less.  If you get dry or irritated when you use the retin A the a very mild cleanser such as cetaphil or similar products may be best. Moisturizers with dimethicone but not other lipids are best for acne and medical studies have shown that products with ceramides or ceramide inducers in addition to dimethicone or cyclomethicone decrease any irritation from retinoids like retin A without decreasing its effectiveness.

Which type of cleanser and moisturizer should use while I'm on Retin-A (0.025%)? (photos)

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Which type of cleanser and moisturizer should use while I'm on Retin-A (0.025%)? (photos)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Retin-A

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