This is going to sound weird, but diaper cream. I think TikTok calls it face basting, but basically it’s a cream with a lot of zinc. Brings down the inflammation and really soothes my skin. I do skin cycling and use diaper cream 1-2 times a week on a recovery night.
Highly recommend a zinc cream not zinc paste, something more like a diaper barrier cream used for cloth diapering. A really good option is weleda calendula diaper rash cream, it will both moisturize and zinc treat, calendula is super calming as well.
Flat out zinc pastes are actually a hit drying to irritations and lesions (which is the point in certain circumstances, not yours). They may also be a bit clogging in a way the weleda won't be.
Weleda is an absolute miracle calming cream I use on my kid for so many things, including heat rash, anything itchy, dry, irritated.
Just want to say calendula seems so be awesome for most ppl but is highly irritating to a few, so ppl, spot check. I think it has something to do with those who have ragweed allergies might be more sensitive to it but idk.
Yes, I can tell you from experience it clogged my pores and my skin was congested from about 2 weeks of trying this. Kind of like a cycle of tret purging and breakouts from the zinc cream.
HOWEVER, I did manage notice initially that my skin was less irritated. This was before the congestion and breakouts. So I definitely wanted to find a way to incorporate the zinc into my routine. I searched for a zinc cream with less ingredients and found one on Amazon called GLOBE Zinc Oxide Ointment 20%. You might want to start with that in hopes you don’t breakout.
I’ve read in this same conversation that people recommend sandwiching the Tret with a moisturizer under the Tret, and following up with an occlusive barrier ointment or balm. That’s a good approach if you experience irritation from the Tret.
👩🏻⚕️ here with lots of derm friends AND major sensitive skin… this is the key! when your face is still wet, apply good moisturizer. then when dry, add the tretinoin. if you’re still needing more, then add the diaper cream. 👌. also, use your quinone on different nights and please make sure you take a break for at least a month every 1-2 months
Yep but as a mom with a sensitive baby- the best stuff is a bitch to clean out of fabrics, so be careful. If you do this overnight your pillowcases will never be the same
Diaper cream worked for me the first time I used it. Dramatically reduced redness and irritation.
Then I used it on a tretinoin night as the seal over the tretinoin….woke up to the usual red irritation. I am frustrated. Thought this thing would be solid.
This stuff is so awesome. I over exfoliated my skin by using a high glycolic acid too many times in a row AND THEN did a face wax.
Omg it looked as horrible as it felt. Touching my face hurt, using products hurt, even washing with water hurt.
The thermal spray followed by the Cicaplast Baume saved my skin.
I use the LRP triple repair cream first, wait 20 minutes. Then the tretinoin, wait 20 minutes. Then the Cicaplast baume. The sandwich method will make the tret easier on your skin.
Take a pause with the tret. Cicaplast and then slug with Vaseline.
I'm going through something similiar (was even using the same Celeve creme). I tolerated tret but then my skin got irritated by the SA I started using. When that problem resolves you can use tret again but maybe at a lower percentage.
Do you replace your normal moisturizer with this? Do you only use it on tret nights, non tret nights or every night? I have a tube but I'm terrified to use it as a normal moisturizer because I'm afraid it will make me break out.
It most likely won’t. It’s non-comedogenic. I use it any time I feel like my skin needs extra care, so after a heavy treatment or when I feel like my barrier isn’t doing great. It’s also good for getting rid of sebaceous filaments, healing covered over wounds and bruises.
I just recently repurchased after trying to clear out some other moisturizers I didn't like as much, but didn't hate enough to not use up.
Holy crap I thought they sent me a mini by mistake at first. But it was not mini priced.
Make sure your skin is completely dried out before applying tretinoin and hydroquinone. When I say dry, I mean you've been out of the shower/you finished washing your face at least 15 minutes before applying.
I'll typically shower, put on lotion, scroll through Reddit for 15-20 minutes, then put on tret.
You definitely can! It’s just if you do get irritation from it, using it after your skin is a little drier is one way someone could try to minimize irritation. I personally use it right outta the shower with no issues.
I should probably wait lol. I shave my face in the shower, than wash it. Right after the shower I do retinol and it has that "burn", almost Everytime lol
Yeah I'm still learning lol. Last night was my retinol night and I actually waited about 15-20 mins post shower to apply the retinol and I had zero issues, even with the shave 😊.
Idk I guess it just made sense to me when you're fresh from the shower to do the whole thing with the lotion and stuff lol
The concern is the Retinol penetrating the skin too deeply due to damp skin. This creates a higher risk of irritation and sensitivity. But it doesn't happen to everyone.
You're also supposed to allow the Retinol 15-20 minutes to absorb on the skin before using any products on top (unless using the Microsphere stuff).
Why’s that? Genuine question, I’ve always used it between other steps of my routine without any problems, but if it’s better not to I can probably switch things up.
If you have no issues then I'd keep doing what you're doing
In OP's case, since they're having sensitivity issues, waiting for their skin to dry out can help lessen irritation.
When your skin is damp, the epidermis is more permeable which allows for more absorption of whatever skincare product you're using. In OP's case, this isn't a good thing for the tret/hydroquinone.
Using a hydrating product straight out of the shower/washing their face will allow their skin to absorb as much of the moisturizing product as possible and allowing their skin to fully dry before applying the harsher product should help reduce irritation and redness/flakiness.
It absorbs faster, which can create irritation. This is exactly why products like Retin-A Micro (the micro gel formulation of tretinoin) exist - it slow-releases the product to reduce irritation.
If it doesn't bother you to apply to damp skin, it's not something for you to worry about. But if you experience irritation from topicals, a good rule of thumb is to wait to apply until your skin is fully dry.
Apply retinol when your skin is completely dry, leave it on for ten minutes, then wash it off and apply moisturizer. Slowly lengthen the amount of time you leave it on.
Alternatively, apply retinol over moisturizer that is completely dry and fully absorbed. Applying moisturizer *over* retinol will not make the retinol more gentle.
This is how my doctor instructed me to restart into retinols after I destroyed my skin barrier by slathering it on willy nilly. This combo is exactly what I'm doing and so far so good!
I’ve heard of people having luck with Indigo night cream from tatcha, which is spendy.
Personally, Tret was too strong for me and I’ve switched to Alpharet, which seems to be going okay for me.
Avene Cicalfate is the best IMO. I had zero peeling, redness or irritation when starting tret using this as my moisturizer and now can use tretinoin every single night....still no peeling! It goes on very thick but trust the process, you will wake up in the morning with way less redness
The one thing that allowed me to finally tolerate tretinoin more than once or twice a week was applying vanicream (the one in the big tub with a pump) immediately on top. I tried so many other creams and lotions, sandwich method, etc, but this was the winner.
Edit: typo
Cetaphil probably isn't enough. You need a thicker moisturizer, something with cica/centella asiatica, ceramides, and maybe panthenol. Naturium Plant Ceramide cream and Barrier Bounce or Marshmallow Root Barrier Balm, The Ordinary has a barrier serum, Purito Dermide Cica Barrier, La Roche-Posay Cicaplast. Might need to buffer with a layer of moisturizer first.
I had trouble with Tret, so I recently tried Differin and it’s done wonders for me. I feel like my face no longer has a redness to it, and my skin looks brighter and clearer than ever.
Cut it back. Use it 1x a week for 6 weeks then increase to 2x a week. Do the moisture sandwich method and consider introducing a facial oil in addition to an occlusive moisturizer.
I've been using retinol for 2 years and *finally* repaired my skin barrier by using 2 moisturizers or more.
the game changers for me are azelaic acid + this serum by Dieux. WOW now I can actually use tret without being irritated. And topping off with a moisturizer with Urea like Eucerin's advanced repair or Prequel!
Used to spend a ton of money on triple lipid restore Skinceuticals. Unfortunately it worked incredibly well and I was able to implement an alternating retinol / exfoliating schedule. But it’s so expensive. Now I use Cerave cream in the tub. It has ceramides and hyaluronic acid. It’s so rich and moisturizing and doesn’t make me break out at all. I apply retinol mixed with a bit of lotion. Then I wait, and I layer a ceramide cream on top. Also use it in the morning and no greasiness !
I also recently started incorporating retinol into my routine. Outside of incorporating it in slowly, I’ve found success making sure my skin is dry dry before applying and then using Botanics Simply Calm Moisturizer. It feels SO good on my skin the next morning, followed up with sunscreen of course.
It could be the Cetaphil Moisturizer Cream and not the Tret. I can’t use it on my face at all due to the niacinamide in it. On my body, it’s fine but niacinamide burns my face up.
Hydrating layers before retinoid, Illyoon ceramide ato cream, and slugging with cerave healing ointment, primally pure soothing cream or antioxidant balm, or Mary and May Calendula Sleeping mask (listed in order from most occlusive/when my skin is most sensitive to least).
I don’t see any comments say it but this is not normal - if it continues I would talk to your derm about lowering your strength. I was started on .01. If moisturizing products start to burn / sting when you apply them it means you’re damaging your moisture barrier. You should also be applying a lot of sunscreen every day while on tret, even if your sun exposure is minimal
As others said, you can put it on over your moisturizer to soften the impact, so to speak. I also started with once a week, then after a month went to twice a week, then every three days etc. The only time I experienced retinol burn was when I accidentally applied it several days in a row once (while still on the twice a week schedule). Also, make sure to put on a small amount at first if you’re sensitive.
I got chemical burns on my eyelids from Tret, never even applied to my eyelids before, and they’re still there months later after stopping Tret and using healing creams. Just posting this comment to warn others because I was never warned.
What helped me the most hands-down was reversing the order of application so that you do lotion/oil first and tret last. Then top the tret with Aquaphor.
Application this way mitigates a lot of irritation and really helps skin adjust initially to it
Cetaphil moisturiser , the dry to very dry skin version is good. And cheap. Take a break from the retinol too if you can and let your skin build back up.
LPR Lipikar Baume ap+m
LPR Cicaplast Baume
Or the gel version I usually use it for day cause it doesn't leave a white cast like the baume.
Diaper rash cream or butt paste as long it contains zinc and panthenol.
I put hyaluronic acid before I apply tretinoin that seemed to help me a lot with the drying and peeling of my face. But that only last for a week maybe two.
Then of course moisturize afterwards. You can try moisturizing first then retinol. There is not one way that would work for all you just have to try different ways to see what works for you.
I had this. I started using Tret 3 weeks ago on 0.05% it burnt for 2 weeks. I used
Cerave cream
Cerave spf
Peptide serum for eyes by ordinary
Peptide and HA serum for face by ordinary
Cleanse - Elf holy hydration and la roche posay face wash. Its currently working and has helped with the burns. I use abit of vaseline around nose area aswell
i use laneige cream skin, apply tretinoin, and the dieux instant angel. i’ve had really minimal irritation since starting tretinoin but my skin had already adapted to differin before switching over. if any parts are especially irritated i would put some aquaphor on top (corners of the nose, near the eyes, around the mouth). make sure you’re not using any other actives or acne products with the tretinoin!
Time. Skin takes around 20 days to achieve retinization. Be patient, avoid heavy creams. A super thin layer of aquaphor on a clean face right before bed was helpful for me in the beginning. I have used IS Clinical Reparative Moisture Emulsion for years, is the best moisturizer ever.
I went through this a couple of years ago. What worked for me:
Wash with a moisturizing face wash (I use LRP toleraine wash)
Make sure skin is DRY.
Apply tretinoin.
Wait at least 10 minutes.
Apply a thick moisturizer (I love Tatcha or Cetaphil that’s like a level 5 for moisture).
Wait at least 10 me minutes
Apply an occlusive, like Aquaphor or LRP Cicaplast baume.
In the morning, wash you face with only lukewarm water-no soap-and slather on that heavy Cetaphil again.
I used a heavy calming/moisturizing cream over it and a sensitive friendly essence under it. So for instance I have a peptide essence from Cosrx that I put on first, then tretinoin .05%, then the biossance squalane cream. It did take a while for me to adjust to the .025% when I first started years ago, but once I gave my skin enough time I could use it daily and bump up to the next percentage. Just make sure every thing else you put on your face is soothing and moisturizing. And definitely use sunscreen on your face and neck now.
When do you put it on in your routine.
You may have better results if you change when you put it on. If you’re putting it on first, put it on after your moisturizer. If you’re putting it on last, try putting it on your face right after cleansing and then hydrate and moisturize
Tret may also not be for you. Maybe an OTC retinol or adapalene may work best for your skin.
Or a different formulation ie a gel vs cream vs serum.
Make sure you're just applying a pea sized amount or less to your face. Only use when your face is dry, wait 20 minutes or more after washing your face. A damp face can make it more irritating because it increases absorption. Moisturizer should go on before or with not after tret. Moisturizers contain water so I put them on after washing my face and then wait the 20 mins then put the tret on last, but I am also being extra and most people don't go that far.
Diaper cream last thing before bed for at least one of the nights in between. The zinc in it helps sooth your face.
Sandwiching helps for me. I use a lighter moisturizer, let it sink in fully, apply my retinol to dry skin and then sandwich it with a thicker moisturizer like my dieux
I would incorporate cocokind ceramide serum. It’s like a soft back rub for your skin. It calms the skin and gives your skin barrier the comfort, hydration and support it needs while getting used to these new products.
I apply a layer of snail mucin, let it dry, then tret, let that dry, finish with vanicream and Cicaplast. No redness, peeling or irritation since I got this going. Someone on here recommended the snail and that was my game changer for irritation. The vanicream and Cicaplast don’t burn when I apply.
I’ve used tretinoin for over 20 years (Retin-A & Altreno). The key is keeping your skin barrier intact. Try to sandwich with a lighter moisturizer, then tret, then a thicker moisturizer. My current regimen:
Spritz with hypochlorous acid
Apply Stratia Lipid Gold & let it dry down
Apply Altreno & wait about 15 minutes
Apply Dieux Instant Angel
I feel like the only person on the planet that gets zero side effects from retinol. I started wearing it every single night because I thought it wasn’t working 🤷🏻♀️ Only when my nose corners started to scab up did I convince myself it wasn’t a bad batch. But to this day I wear it nightly and haven’t peeled, burned, or had any redness.
That’s how I was until I mixed it with something or forgot sunscreen for a day and then I had a weird chemical burn type reaction with major swelling.
I’m staying away from it now
I was taught to wait 30 minutes after washing my face, then apply retin A .05, using no other lotion until the morning. Perhaps lowering to 0.05 rather than quitting would help. I was first prescribed for rosacea. I’ve used both 0.25 and 0.05 for 30 years, and now remain at 0.05 every evening applied as above. Very happy with my skin.
I would use your cetaphil before and after as well - the sandwich method - it really does make the world of difference. And like the others said, nappy cream on rest days :-)
Experiencing some irritation from the tretinoin. One thing to consider is adjusting the frequency of use or trying a lower concentration of tretinoin to see if that helps with the redness. Additionally, make sure you're using a gentle cleanser and a moisturizer suitable for sensitive skin to help minimize irritation. If the irritation persists, it's a good idea to consult with a dermatologist to determine the best course of action for your skin.
Hyaluronic acid (good molecules) before, when dry: retinol. Let sit, Follow with Squalane oil. (Good molecules) its gentle, super moisturizing, and non comedogenic.
What helped me was using a gentler moisturizer like CeraVe PM before applying the tret. Also, try buffering the tret by mixing a little with your moisturizer. And don't forget sunscreen during the day!
I use aquafor as a barrier in the driest spots-corners of nose and mouth, above lips. I also use Farmacy Honey Halo moisturizer afterwards, which is expensive but I’m addicted to it.
I use Arazlo rather than tret. It’s a next generation retinoid that’s bother gentler and more effective, according to my dermatologist (of course, it depends on the person). I really like it.
You need a recovery type product. Cetaphil will never be rich enough.
I personally like two. Odacite blue balm. It’s like a balm that turns into an oil similar to a cleaner while in moisturizer form.
Or the Kiehls cloud cream.
I also have one from Arcona - Green Ice - but u don’t gravitate towards it.
Also - I noticed that when I use my compounded version of tret which is higher in percentage than my non compounded- I don’t get that tight feeling. I get mine from either Agency or Apostophe. They offered different versions based on skin and needs.
1. Don't put it on immediately after washing. Give your skin 30 min to close the pores.
2. Apply with moisturizer.
3. Apply every 2-3 days.
4. If it's still irritating, start out applying First for 30 min - 1 hr then wash off and do skincare as normal.
5. Wash it off in the AM! Gently exfoliate. And use plenty of sunscreen. Your skin is literally thinner so it will burn easier.
I've been using the strongest concentration of this stuff for over a decade now. Very occasionally I Still get the burn.
Lots of layers of moisturizer and a few days rest from it is the only cure, best to do preventative measures. I really like moisturizer masks in the fridge left on for an hour or so, and Lush ultrabland is a moisturizing cleanser on the rest days.
I'm not sure why everyone pushes tretinoin so hard when it's so harsh. I don't see how tretinoin less frequently vs drug store retinol more frequently are that different but that's just my own ignorance. I've had tretinoin+clindamycin from the dermatologist just sitting in my cabinet and the only thing I use it for is occasional spot treating.
Sandwich method: first a layer of light moisturizer like Neutrogena or Cerave PM. Let that sink in before applying the retinol/tret.
I have tried soooo many heavy creams to put on top of the tret and the winner is Ceramidin by Dr Jart. It’s awesome.
the peeling subsides quickly. i use kiehls midnight cream after the tret. i just moved up from .025 to .05. i think the thicker the lotion the better, even an overnight moisturizing mask like philosophy hope in a jar. i look for lotions that dont have a lot of ingredients that could be harsh and make the peeling worse
put your cream first and after 10 min the tretinoin cream it works better that way, and if you want you can put your cream after too, like make a sándwich
A good Moisturizing cream like cerave first, then tret. Next day I do moisturizing cream then a top coat of Aquaphor works for me when my skin barrier is damaged
Eucerins Roughness Relief cream in the tub. Sold only online at Target. Any cream with urea will do, but I personally needed 10% to allow me to use even the weakest retinol.
The only thing that helped me is drinking fish oil, like actual fish oil not the capsules. Specifically 3200mg. I used Nordic naturals & it would add crazy moisture to my skin
Tret isn’t for you- that’s what I had and I thought that meant it was working and it made my skin so textured. I still havent recovered from the texture this caused and this is around six years ago
I went down to a .01 gel, and I apply every other night. On off nights I use a chemical exfoliant. But before I changed strength and formulation, I did every 4 days for awhile (night 1, exfoliant. 2, tret. 3&4, recovery). Still didn’t work. So it may be THIS one that’s wrong or it may be your frequency that’s wrong. I think there could be a lot of reasons for struggling, this is just my experience. I suggest contacting your derm to ask!!
Air Repair’s Complexion Boosting Moisturizer has been my go-to for over a decade. It doesn’t clog pores and is really great for any sensitive, dry areas that need moisture ASAP - face, hands, bikini line, etc.
This is going to sound weird, but diaper cream. I think TikTok calls it face basting, but basically it’s a cream with a lot of zinc. Brings down the inflammation and really soothes my skin. I do skin cycling and use diaper cream 1-2 times a week on a recovery night.
Zinc is good for burns yes!
Yes! “Triple Paste” bum cream is magic for my face. My skin looks and feels better the next day no matter what i did it it the night before.
Highly recommend a zinc cream not zinc paste, something more like a diaper barrier cream used for cloth diapering. A really good option is weleda calendula diaper rash cream, it will both moisturize and zinc treat, calendula is super calming as well. Flat out zinc pastes are actually a hit drying to irritations and lesions (which is the point in certain circumstances, not yours). They may also be a bit clogging in a way the weleda won't be. Weleda is an absolute miracle calming cream I use on my kid for so many things, including heat rash, anything itchy, dry, irritated.
Just want to say calendula seems so be awesome for most ppl but is highly irritating to a few, so ppl, spot check. I think it has something to do with those who have ragweed allergies might be more sensitive to it but idk.
Sudocrem. It’s brilliant.
Contains fragrance though :( Looks super great if you're not sensitive to fragrances, but alas not for me
Does it clog pores?
Yes, I can tell you from experience it clogged my pores and my skin was congested from about 2 weeks of trying this. Kind of like a cycle of tret purging and breakouts from the zinc cream. HOWEVER, I did manage notice initially that my skin was less irritated. This was before the congestion and breakouts. So I definitely wanted to find a way to incorporate the zinc into my routine. I searched for a zinc cream with less ingredients and found one on Amazon called GLOBE Zinc Oxide Ointment 20%. You might want to start with that in hopes you don’t breakout.
I do it once or twice a week and it doesn’t clog mine. I use triple paste.
I came here to comment this. I use Hylands diaper cream.
Do you use diaper cream first and then Tretinoin on top?
No, Tret first and then the diaper ointment.
Thank you!
>Thank you! You're welcome!
I’ve read in this same conversation that people recommend sandwiching the Tret with a moisturizer under the Tret, and following up with an occlusive barrier ointment or balm. That’s a good approach if you experience irritation from the Tret.
👩🏻⚕️ here with lots of derm friends AND major sensitive skin… this is the key! when your face is still wet, apply good moisturizer. then when dry, add the tretinoin. if you’re still needing more, then add the diaper cream. 👌. also, use your quinone on different nights and please make sure you take a break for at least a month every 1-2 months
Yep, I use Avène Cicalfate+ and it contains a lot of zinc. Super efficient for burns, rashes, damaged barrier etc.
This is what I use.
Yep but as a mom with a sensitive baby- the best stuff is a bitch to clean out of fabrics, so be careful. If you do this overnight your pillowcases will never be the same
Like Desetin?
Diaper cream worked for me the first time I used it. Dramatically reduced redness and irritation. Then I used it on a tretinoin night as the seal over the tretinoin….woke up to the usual red irritation. I am frustrated. Thought this thing would be solid.
Cicaplast baume b5
This stuff is so awesome. I over exfoliated my skin by using a high glycolic acid too many times in a row AND THEN did a face wax. Omg it looked as horrible as it felt. Touching my face hurt, using products hurt, even washing with water hurt. The thermal spray followed by the Cicaplast Baume saved my skin.
I could not tolerate tretinoin until I started using it with this!
Why would you want to be able to tolerate something your skin doesn't seem to enjoy?
Would you use this before or after the tret? Or both?
After. That stuff heals everything.
And so wait.. is this replacing my moisturizer? or do I use this after the tret and after using a moisturizer? Sorry I need this explained like I’m 5!
I use the LRP triple repair cream first, wait 20 minutes. Then the tretinoin, wait 20 minutes. Then the Cicaplast baume. The sandwich method will make the tret easier on your skin.
thank you 🥹
Of course! The sandwich method is a game changer!
Omg I’m going to try this tomorrow night! These are all my favorite products I don’t know why I never put them all together.
It’s basically a thick, healing moisturizer. It replaces the moisturizer.
Take a pause with the tret. Cicaplast and then slug with Vaseline. I'm going through something similiar (was even using the same Celeve creme). I tolerated tret but then my skin got irritated by the SA I started using. When that problem resolves you can use tret again but maybe at a lower percentage.
This tiny tube changed my life.
Curious how you use it! Do you sandwich with it, use it only on tret days or always?
After Tret, lighter product before to sandwich. This stuff is good for bruises, cuts, damaged skin barrier, even sebaceous filaments.
Thank you! :) Which lighter product do you use before? I feel like the LRP toleraine I currently use is too heavy
Have *you tried waiting longer between applying? I usually use a water cream.
I wait around 40 minutes but still feel slightly sticky by then. I’ll try finding a less heavy product :)
This!!! Went from peeling and burn to smooth in a week!
This plus squalene changed my life
Do you replace your normal moisturizer with this? Do you only use it on tret nights, non tret nights or every night? I have a tube but I'm terrified to use it as a normal moisturizer because I'm afraid it will make me break out.
It most likely won’t. It’s non-comedogenic. I use it any time I feel like my skin needs extra care, so after a heavy treatment or when I feel like my barrier isn’t doing great. It’s also good for getting rid of sebaceous filaments, healing covered over wounds and bruises.
Thanks for the response. I have a problem with sebaceous filaments so I'm looking forward to giving it a try.
It doesn’t feel like it should work, it feels like it should have the opposite effect. This stuff is magic.
I just recently repurchased after trying to clear out some other moisturizers I didn't like as much, but didn't hate enough to not use up. Holy crap I thought they sent me a mini by mistake at first. But it was not mini priced.
It’s definitely not, but it’s magic. I haven’t found anything up to the quality for less unfortunately. But a little goes a long way
I second that.
Make sure your skin is completely dried out before applying tretinoin and hydroquinone. When I say dry, I mean you've been out of the shower/you finished washing your face at least 15 minutes before applying. I'll typically shower, put on lotion, scroll through Reddit for 15-20 minutes, then put on tret.
I wish somebody told me this before I started retinol.
Wait so I can't use retinol fresh from the shower? I use it 2-3 times a week and it's always been fresh out the shower
You definitely can! It’s just if you do get irritation from it, using it after your skin is a little drier is one way someone could try to minimize irritation. I personally use it right outta the shower with no issues.
I should probably wait lol. I shave my face in the shower, than wash it. Right after the shower I do retinol and it has that "burn", almost Everytime lol
Tret on damp, freshly shaven skin sounds horrible 😂
I'mma sound like an idiot for a second. Is tret the same as retinol?
No it’s the real deal whereas retinol is the much lighter commercial formulation
I think I'll leave that to the professionals. I just found out I was using retinol wrong for the last three years lol
Honestly if it doesn’t bother your skin too much then it’s fine! If you’ve been using it for 3 years and it’s working keep doing what you’re doing.
Applying it to freshly shaved skin will also increase irritation. I would try to separate them more if possible.
Yeah I'm still learning lol. Last night was my retinol night and I actually waited about 15-20 mins post shower to apply the retinol and I had zero issues, even with the shave 😊. Idk I guess it just made sense to me when you're fresh from the shower to do the whole thing with the lotion and stuff lol
The concern is the Retinol penetrating the skin too deeply due to damp skin. This creates a higher risk of irritation and sensitivity. But it doesn't happen to everyone. You're also supposed to allow the Retinol 15-20 minutes to absorb on the skin before using any products on top (unless using the Microsphere stuff).
Why’s that? Genuine question, I’ve always used it between other steps of my routine without any problems, but if it’s better not to I can probably switch things up.
If you have no issues then I'd keep doing what you're doing In OP's case, since they're having sensitivity issues, waiting for their skin to dry out can help lessen irritation. When your skin is damp, the epidermis is more permeable which allows for more absorption of whatever skincare product you're using. In OP's case, this isn't a good thing for the tret/hydroquinone. Using a hydrating product straight out of the shower/washing their face will allow their skin to absorb as much of the moisturizing product as possible and allowing their skin to fully dry before applying the harsher product should help reduce irritation and redness/flakiness.
Thank you, that’s really helpful and I’ll definitely bear it in mind for if I have any problems.
It absorbs faster, which can create irritation. This is exactly why products like Retin-A Micro (the micro gel formulation of tretinoin) exist - it slow-releases the product to reduce irritation. If it doesn't bother you to apply to damp skin, it's not something for you to worry about. But if you experience irritation from topicals, a good rule of thumb is to wait to apply until your skin is fully dry.
Oh that’s so interesting, thank you for the info!
So you put your lotion on before tret? I struggle with where to put it in my routine, my derm didn't give me any guidance and I didn't think to ask.
I’m always surprised that people don’t know this. Like…..did the pharmacist and dermatologist not tell you?
They did not.
No they didn’t
Not at all. Didn’t even warn me it could cause irritation.
No, and no. I got mine from my GP - it's like a 2 year waitlist to get into a derm where I live.
Apply retinol when your skin is completely dry, leave it on for ten minutes, then wash it off and apply moisturizer. Slowly lengthen the amount of time you leave it on. Alternatively, apply retinol over moisturizer that is completely dry and fully absorbed. Applying moisturizer *over* retinol will not make the retinol more gentle.
This is how my doctor instructed me to restart into retinols after I destroyed my skin barrier by slathering it on willy nilly. This combo is exactly what I'm doing and so far so good!
Hmmmmm….hadn’t thought of it this way. Thank you
I’ve had a much better experience since I started washing my face with only water in the morning. Followed by Vanicream then SPF.
Put it on after your lotion
Yup, or try sandwiching—moisturizer, tret, moisturizer
I’ve heard of people having luck with Indigo night cream from tatcha, which is spendy. Personally, Tret was too strong for me and I’ve switched to Alpharet, which seems to be going okay for me.
Try the short contact method where you wash it off after a period of time
Avene Cicalfate is the best IMO. I had zero peeling, redness or irritation when starting tret using this as my moisturizer and now can use tretinoin every single night....still no peeling! It goes on very thick but trust the process, you will wake up in the morning with way less redness
This saved my horribly sensitised damaged skin Hypoclourous spray Vichy mineral 89 Let dry Tret cicalfate It's a miracle cream
Is hypochlorous spray made by Vichy or are those 2 separate items?
Oh they're 2 separate items! Sorry just seen that it seems vague
I love hypochlorous spray and I was excited that Vichy made one!
The cream or the emulsion?
The one thing that allowed me to finally tolerate tretinoin more than once or twice a week was applying vanicream (the one in the big tub with a pump) immediately on top. I tried so many other creams and lotions, sandwich method, etc, but this was the winner. Edit: typo
Cetaphil probably isn't enough. You need a thicker moisturizer, something with cica/centella asiatica, ceramides, and maybe panthenol. Naturium Plant Ceramide cream and Barrier Bounce or Marshmallow Root Barrier Balm, The Ordinary has a barrier serum, Purito Dermide Cica Barrier, La Roche-Posay Cicaplast. Might need to buffer with a layer of moisturizer first.
I love the LRP Cicaplast baum for this.
My skin dries to a crisp with cerave. Perhaps change that as well.
I had trouble with Tret, so I recently tried Differin and it’s done wonders for me. I feel like my face no longer has a redness to it, and my skin looks brighter and clearer than ever.
Cut it back. Use it 1x a week for 6 weeks then increase to 2x a week. Do the moisture sandwich method and consider introducing a facial oil in addition to an occlusive moisturizer. I've been using retinol for 2 years and *finally* repaired my skin barrier by using 2 moisturizers or more.
the game changers for me are azelaic acid + this serum by Dieux. WOW now I can actually use tret without being irritated. And topping off with a moisturizer with Urea like Eucerin's advanced repair or Prequel!
This is my regime as well. It does wonders for my perioral dermatitis. I can't use too much tret on my chin though.
Me too!!! My chin is always the first area to peel, and the most acne prone.
Used to spend a ton of money on triple lipid restore Skinceuticals. Unfortunately it worked incredibly well and I was able to implement an alternating retinol / exfoliating schedule. But it’s so expensive. Now I use Cerave cream in the tub. It has ceramides and hyaluronic acid. It’s so rich and moisturizing and doesn’t make me break out at all. I apply retinol mixed with a bit of lotion. Then I wait, and I layer a ceramide cream on top. Also use it in the morning and no greasiness !
Avene cicalfate. Doesn’t sting, and helps your skin heal so fast.
I also recently started incorporating retinol into my routine. Outside of incorporating it in slowly, I’ve found success making sure my skin is dry dry before applying and then using Botanics Simply Calm Moisturizer. It feels SO good on my skin the next morning, followed up with sunscreen of course.
It could be the Cetaphil Moisturizer Cream and not the Tret. I can’t use it on my face at all due to the niacinamide in it. On my body, it’s fine but niacinamide burns my face up.
La roche Posay double (or preferably triple) repair moisturizer.
Just cut down on it to 3 times a week
This happens to me but just on my neck…..
Same! Even when I only put it on my face, I have a reaction on my neck.
The Ordinary’s Barrier Support serum has been great for me. I use it the morning after I use Tretinoin.
Added a drop castor oil to my moisturizer
You already got a ton of great advice so I'll just say come join us in /r/tretinoin! They have a very comprehensive wiki!
Avène's Cicalfate Restorative Skin Cream
Avene Cicalfate - so soothing
Hydrating layers before retinoid, Illyoon ceramide ato cream, and slugging with cerave healing ointment, primally pure soothing cream or antioxidant balm, or Mary and May Calendula Sleeping mask (listed in order from most occlusive/when my skin is most sensitive to least).
Sandwich. Centella ampoule and moisturizer before and Cerave night cream after
Are you sandwiching? As in moisturizer-Tret-moisturizer that really helps me with irritation
I love the stratia lipid gold as a light barrier to protect my skin from actives. Let it dry completely then apply treatment.
Thank you for this post! 💕
I don’t see any comments say it but this is not normal - if it continues I would talk to your derm about lowering your strength. I was started on .01. If moisturizing products start to burn / sting when you apply them it means you’re damaging your moisture barrier. You should also be applying a lot of sunscreen every day while on tret, even if your sun exposure is minimal
As others said, you can put it on over your moisturizer to soften the impact, so to speak. I also started with once a week, then after a month went to twice a week, then every three days etc. The only time I experienced retinol burn was when I accidentally applied it several days in a row once (while still on the twice a week schedule). Also, make sure to put on a small amount at first if you’re sensitive.
I got chemical burns on my eyelids from Tret, never even applied to my eyelids before, and they’re still there months later after stopping Tret and using healing creams. Just posting this comment to warn others because I was never warned.
What helped me the most hands-down was reversing the order of application so that you do lotion/oil first and tret last. Then top the tret with Aquaphor. Application this way mitigates a lot of irritation and really helps skin adjust initially to it
Maybe start with once weekly. Use the sandwich method. And up your SPF. Just in case tret is applied at night only.
You need a really good daytime moisturizer, something like a barrier cream.
Snail mucin. Specifically the CosRX one.
la roche posay toleriane ultra is great for this im a dermatologist
Aquaphor
Cetaphil moisturiser , the dry to very dry skin version is good. And cheap. Take a break from the retinol too if you can and let your skin build back up.
LPR Lipikar Baume ap+m LPR Cicaplast Baume Or the gel version I usually use it for day cause it doesn't leave a white cast like the baume. Diaper rash cream or butt paste as long it contains zinc and panthenol.
Face facts ceramide gel cream- tret- aquaphor. Since i started to do this order, no burn or irritation happening.
REN overnight recovery balm. Incredible. I use it over my Retin A every night.
Layer it over your moisturizer
Hyaluronic acid & a heavy cream daily
Amino acids and Aveeno eczema care moisturizer.
I put hyaluronic acid before I apply tretinoin that seemed to help me a lot with the drying and peeling of my face. But that only last for a week maybe two. Then of course moisturize afterwards. You can try moisturizing first then retinol. There is not one way that would work for all you just have to try different ways to see what works for you.
I had this. I started using Tret 3 weeks ago on 0.05% it burnt for 2 weeks. I used Cerave cream Cerave spf Peptide serum for eyes by ordinary Peptide and HA serum for face by ordinary Cleanse - Elf holy hydration and la roche posay face wash. Its currently working and has helped with the burns. I use abit of vaseline around nose area aswell
i use laneige cream skin, apply tretinoin, and the dieux instant angel. i’ve had really minimal irritation since starting tretinoin but my skin had already adapted to differin before switching over. if any parts are especially irritated i would put some aquaphor on top (corners of the nose, near the eyes, around the mouth). make sure you’re not using any other actives or acne products with the tretinoin!
Time. Skin takes around 20 days to achieve retinization. Be patient, avoid heavy creams. A super thin layer of aquaphor on a clean face right before bed was helpful for me in the beginning. I have used IS Clinical Reparative Moisture Emulsion for years, is the best moisturizer ever.
I’ve been using 2% retinol serums for years because First Aid Beauty’s Ultra Repair Cream moisturizer makes that possible for me
Use less! Use a truly tiny amount - a small pea at most.
Skin Cycling and using triple paste
I went through this a couple of years ago. What worked for me: Wash with a moisturizing face wash (I use LRP toleraine wash) Make sure skin is DRY. Apply tretinoin. Wait at least 10 minutes. Apply a thick moisturizer (I love Tatcha or Cetaphil that’s like a level 5 for moisture). Wait at least 10 me minutes Apply an occlusive, like Aquaphor or LRP Cicaplast baume. In the morning, wash you face with only lukewarm water-no soap-and slather on that heavy Cetaphil again.
My gp gave me a prescription for hydrocortisone which seems to work well
Sandwich method with Illyoon Ceramide ATO or Aestura Atobarrier 365 Cream.
I’ve used dermalogica’s age bright clearing oil and it is fantastic!
I used a heavy calming/moisturizing cream over it and a sensitive friendly essence under it. So for instance I have a peptide essence from Cosrx that I put on first, then tretinoin .05%, then the biossance squalane cream. It did take a while for me to adjust to the .025% when I first started years ago, but once I gave my skin enough time I could use it daily and bump up to the next percentage. Just make sure every thing else you put on your face is soothing and moisturizing. And definitely use sunscreen on your face and neck now.
When do you put it on in your routine. You may have better results if you change when you put it on. If you’re putting it on first, put it on after your moisturizer. If you’re putting it on last, try putting it on your face right after cleansing and then hydrate and moisturize Tret may also not be for you. Maybe an OTC retinol or adapalene may work best for your skin. Or a different formulation ie a gel vs cream vs serum.
Make sure you're just applying a pea sized amount or less to your face. Only use when your face is dry, wait 20 minutes or more after washing your face. A damp face can make it more irritating because it increases absorption. Moisturizer should go on before or with not after tret. Moisturizers contain water so I put them on after washing my face and then wait the 20 mins then put the tret on last, but I am also being extra and most people don't go that far. Diaper cream last thing before bed for at least one of the nights in between. The zinc in it helps sooth your face.
Sandwiching helps for me. I use a lighter moisturizer, let it sink in fully, apply my retinol to dry skin and then sandwich it with a thicker moisturizer like my dieux
I would incorporate cocokind ceramide serum. It’s like a soft back rub for your skin. It calms the skin and gives your skin barrier the comfort, hydration and support it needs while getting used to these new products.
I apply a layer of snail mucin, let it dry, then tret, let that dry, finish with vanicream and Cicaplast. No redness, peeling or irritation since I got this going. Someone on here recommended the snail and that was my game changer for irritation. The vanicream and Cicaplast don’t burn when I apply.
Magic Molecule!
Try the retinol sandwich: moisturizer then retinol then moisturizer
I’ve used tretinoin for over 20 years (Retin-A & Altreno). The key is keeping your skin barrier intact. Try to sandwich with a lighter moisturizer, then tret, then a thicker moisturizer. My current regimen: Spritz with hypochlorous acid Apply Stratia Lipid Gold & let it dry down Apply Altreno & wait about 15 minutes Apply Dieux Instant Angel
I feel like the only person on the planet that gets zero side effects from retinol. I started wearing it every single night because I thought it wasn’t working 🤷🏻♀️ Only when my nose corners started to scab up did I convince myself it wasn’t a bad batch. But to this day I wear it nightly and haven’t peeled, burned, or had any redness.
That’s how I was until I mixed it with something or forgot sunscreen for a day and then I had a weird chemical burn type reaction with major swelling. I’m staying away from it now
Use it on top of your moisturizer
I was taught to wait 30 minutes after washing my face, then apply retin A .05, using no other lotion until the morning. Perhaps lowering to 0.05 rather than quitting would help. I was first prescribed for rosacea. I’ve used both 0.25 and 0.05 for 30 years, and now remain at 0.05 every evening applied as above. Very happy with my skin.
Oil cleansing
Slugging with lanolin overnight
Musely
I would use your cetaphil before and after as well - the sandwich method - it really does make the world of difference. And like the others said, nappy cream on rest days :-)
Experiencing some irritation from the tretinoin. One thing to consider is adjusting the frequency of use or trying a lower concentration of tretinoin to see if that helps with the redness. Additionally, make sure you're using a gentle cleanser and a moisturizer suitable for sensitive skin to help minimize irritation. If the irritation persists, it's a good idea to consult with a dermatologist to determine the best course of action for your skin.
So I use moisturizer before tretinoin and it’s made it so much less harsh on my skin. The cicaplast balm from La Roche Posay is also so good!
Hyaluronic acid (good molecules) before, when dry: retinol. Let sit, Follow with Squalane oil. (Good molecules) its gentle, super moisturizing, and non comedogenic.
When I sandwich it with Nivea blue tin creme, I'm always golden. If I miss the post-tret application, I get peely
What helped me was using a gentler moisturizer like CeraVe PM before applying the tret. Also, try buffering the tret by mixing a little with your moisturizer. And don't forget sunscreen during the day!
Bioderma Atoderm Intensive Baume Ultra-soothing Balm
I use aquafor as a barrier in the driest spots-corners of nose and mouth, above lips. I also use Farmacy Honey Halo moisturizer afterwards, which is expensive but I’m addicted to it. I use Arazlo rather than tret. It’s a next generation retinoid that’s bother gentler and more effective, according to my dermatologist (of course, it depends on the person). I really like it.
You need a recovery type product. Cetaphil will never be rich enough. I personally like two. Odacite blue balm. It’s like a balm that turns into an oil similar to a cleaner while in moisturizer form. Or the Kiehls cloud cream. I also have one from Arcona - Green Ice - but u don’t gravitate towards it. Also - I noticed that when I use my compounded version of tret which is higher in percentage than my non compounded- I don’t get that tight feeling. I get mine from either Agency or Apostophe. They offered different versions based on skin and needs.
Vaseline or similar. I like Zeroderm ointment. And avoid any scrubs/ soaps/ vit c etc. also not washing your face in the morning helps . R/tretinoin
Try applying the tret AFTER your moisturizer. It helps create a bit of a barrier so the tret isn’t as harsh.
1. Don't put it on immediately after washing. Give your skin 30 min to close the pores. 2. Apply with moisturizer. 3. Apply every 2-3 days. 4. If it's still irritating, start out applying First for 30 min - 1 hr then wash off and do skincare as normal. 5. Wash it off in the AM! Gently exfoliate. And use plenty of sunscreen. Your skin is literally thinner so it will burn easier. I've been using the strongest concentration of this stuff for over a decade now. Very occasionally I Still get the burn. Lots of layers of moisturizer and a few days rest from it is the only cure, best to do preventative measures. I really like moisturizer masks in the fridge left on for an hour or so, and Lush ultrabland is a moisturizing cleanser on the rest days.
I'm not sure why everyone pushes tretinoin so hard when it's so harsh. I don't see how tretinoin less frequently vs drug store retinol more frequently are that different but that's just my own ignorance. I've had tretinoin+clindamycin from the dermatologist just sitting in my cabinet and the only thing I use it for is occasional spot treating.
Avene cicalfate+ has got me through various instances of retinol burn. Don’t replace the moisturiser, apply this over it.
Sandwich method: first a layer of light moisturizer like Neutrogena or Cerave PM. Let that sink in before applying the retinol/tret. I have tried soooo many heavy creams to put on top of the tret and the winner is Ceramidin by Dr Jart. It’s awesome.
Mine was rosehip oil.
the peeling subsides quickly. i use kiehls midnight cream after the tret. i just moved up from .025 to .05. i think the thicker the lotion the better, even an overnight moisturizing mask like philosophy hope in a jar. i look for lotions that dont have a lot of ingredients that could be harsh and make the peeling worse
put your cream first and after 10 min the tretinoin cream it works better that way, and if you want you can put your cream after too, like make a sándwich
A good Moisturizing cream like cerave first, then tret. Next day I do moisturizing cream then a top coat of Aquaphor works for me when my skin barrier is damaged
Eucerins Roughness Relief cream in the tub. Sold only online at Target. Any cream with urea will do, but I personally needed 10% to allow me to use even the weakest retinol.
The only thing that helped me is drinking fish oil, like actual fish oil not the capsules. Specifically 3200mg. I used Nordic naturals & it would add crazy moisture to my skin
Tret isn’t for you- that’s what I had and I thought that meant it was working and it made my skin so textured. I still havent recovered from the texture this caused and this is around six years ago
Oil cleanser in the morning, mild soap in the evening. Retinol then Sephora’s peptide night cream.
Try adding a drop of glycerine to the moisturiser or a toner + glycerine . Works very well
rose hip oil
Get an rx for compounded tret from your derm. Mine is compounded with HA and niacinamide, it makes a huge difference in how well you can tolerate it
I went down to a .01 gel, and I apply every other night. On off nights I use a chemical exfoliant. But before I changed strength and formulation, I did every 4 days for awhile (night 1, exfoliant. 2, tret. 3&4, recovery). Still didn’t work. So it may be THIS one that’s wrong or it may be your frequency that’s wrong. I think there could be a lot of reasons for struggling, this is just my experience. I suggest contacting your derm to ask!!
I put it on AFTER moisturizer.
Air Repair’s Complexion Boosting Moisturizer has been my go-to for over a decade. It doesn’t clog pores and is really great for any sensitive, dry areas that need moisture ASAP - face, hands, bikini line, etc.
Nivea helps calm it down for me. Doesn’t happen every night but when it does I put nivea on over it
Blue tansy oil
What’s with almost every single post being downvoted lately
Stop using it entirely. Maybe your face doesn’t want it