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Clinical studies have shown that using a moisturizer with a topical retinoid reduces irritation with no decrease in efficacy. It does not matter which is applied first.
I always recommend use of a good facial moisturizer when my patients are using Retin-A, as it has a tendency to dry the skin out. One tip for using Retin-A: don't apply it right after you wash your face - if your skin is moist, the Retin-A will penetrate more and be more likely to cause irritation. Wait 15-30 minutes after washing to apply your Retin-A for the best tolerability. Make sure the moisturizer you are using is specifically formulated for the face and is labeled as "non-comedogenic," which means that it shouldn't cause breakouts.
You can apply moisturizer before or after Retin-A... This will not decrease the efficacy of the Retin-A. If you have a tendency to be dry I encourage you to apply your moisturizer before the Retin-A. Remember that Retin-A is only for night use. Hope this helps. Dr. Grant Stevens Marina Plastic Surgery Associates Marina del Rey, CA The Institute
Retin-A has a tendency to dry the skin out a lot, so I actually prefer my patients do apply the Retin-A to dry skin. Then wait a few minutes and add moisturizer over it. You will need to ask your prescribing physician if he/she has another preference, but this is the way I've done it for almost 30 years and it allows the Retin-A to be effective without overdrying the skin.
Did someone prescribe the Retin-A for your thighs? My assumption is "no" and you self-prescribed this, which is not good. Products need to be used on specific regions of the body and not everything can be used everywhere, or you can have severe issues, like you've experienced. In no way should...
For dry skin or to tolerate Retin-A better you can definitely mix a moisturizer. The efficacy is the same and you will have less peeling. Hope this helps Dr. Grant Stevens Marina Plastic Surgery...
Topical retinoids such as Differin, Tazorac, and Retin A can be stored at room temperature and do not need to be refrigerated.