Retinol is a potent ingredient that can cause dryness and itching, especially when you first start using it. Therefore, it is essential to moisturize your skin when using retinol. However, there is no hard and fast rule about whether to apply moisturizer before or after retinol, and it depends on personal preference and skin type. Here are some general guidelines to follow:
- If you have dry or sensitive skin, apply moisturizer before retinol to counteract any potential irritation.
- If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you may want to apply retinol before your moisturizer to penetrate deep into your pores and work on exfoliating dead skin cells.
- If your retinol is irritating your skin, you should apply a thin layer of moisturizer before applying it to give your skin a little barrier.
- If your retinol is not irritating your skin, you can apply it before your moisturizer.
When choosing a moisturizer to use with retinol, look for hydrating and skin-strengthening formulas with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, peptides, and ceramides. These ingredients help restore the skin barrier and lock in moisture, which is especially important when using retinol. It is also best to avoid fragranced moisturizers and choose non-comedogenic formulas to avoid clogging pores.
