Key takeaways:
Retin-A helps treat acne and improves skin texture, but it often causes dryness and irritation, especially at first.
Using a moisturizer with nourishing ingredients (like ceramides and hyaluronic acid) can help reduce irritation and keep your routine consistent.
The best moisturizer to use with Retin-A also depends on your skin type. Thicker creams work well for dry skin, while lighter lotions or gels are better for oily skin.
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Retin-A is one of the most powerful and versatile skin ingredients out there. It treats acne and fades hyperpigmentation. And, over time, it can soften fine lines and even out skin tone.
But Retin-A can cause dryness, flaking, and redness, especially during the first few weeks. These side effects can lead people to stop using it too soon. That’s where a good moisturizer comes in.
The right moisturizer — used in the right way — can reduce irritation and help you stay consistent with your routine. Here are some of the best moisturizers to use with Retin-A and tips for use.
Why do you need a moisturizer with Retin-A?
Retin-A works like an exfoliant. It speeds up how quickly your skin cells turn over. Early on, that process can disrupt your skin barrier, leading to dryness, tightness, and peeling. A good moisturizer helps counter these effects by:
Improving hydration
Restoring a healthy skin barrier
Reducing inflammation
What to look for in a moisturizer
Not all moisturizers are the same. To choose the best moisturizer to use with Retin-A, it helps to know what active ingredients to look for. Also, it’s good to understand the different formulations available.
What ingredients pair well with Retin-A?
Look for moisturizers with these nourishing and hydrating ingredients:
Ceramides are lipids (fats) that occur naturally in the skin, and they can help repair the skin barrier.
Hyaluronic acid and glycerin are humectants, which means they help pull water into the skin and relieve dryness.
Niacinamide (vitamin B3) helps lower inflammation and soothe irritation.
Moisturizer formulation
In general, thicker moisturizers (like creams and balms) are more hydrating because they’re better at locking in moisture. Stick with products that are fragrance free and non-comedogenic (meaning they won’t clog pores).
Ingredients to avoid with Retin-A
When you first start using Retin-A, your skin becomes more sensitive. During this time, it’s best to avoid other ingredients or products that can also irritate your skin, like:
Exfoliants (like glycolic acid or salicylic acid)
Alcohol-based products (like certain toners)
Physical scrubs (like products with salts or sugars)
As your skin gets used to Retin-A, it may be possible to add some of these back into your regimen. Always go slowly and watch for signs of irritation (like skin flaking and irritation). If you notice these, you may need to stop using the product.
Best types of moisturizers to use with Retin-A
The best moisturizer to use with Retin-A varies by skin type. Here are some specific options to try. But keep in mind that there are many great products available.
Dry or sensitive skin
If you have dry or sensitive skin, start with a thicker cream that focuses on skin barrier repair. Look for simple, fragrance-free moisturizers designed for sensitive skin, like:
Oily or acne-prone skin
For oily or acne-prone skin, a lightweight and oil-free moisturizer is your best option. These can provide hydration without feeling greasy. Here are some options to try:
Combination skin
Combination skin often benefits from a combination approach. A lighter lotion works for most of the face, and a richer cream can be layered on top of drier areas as needed. Flexibility matters more than finding a single perfect product.
Here are two products to consider combining:
EltaMD PM Restore Moisturizer for drier areas
Paula’s Choice Invisible Moisture Gel for oilier areas
How to use moisturizer with Retin-A
There are a few key steps to using a moisturizer with Retin-A. Getting these right can limit skin irritation and keep your routine on track.
How to use
Here are tips on how to use a moisturizer with Retin-A:
Beginners: Start slowly. Apply a pea-sized amount to your entire face a few nights a week.
Established users: Once your skin is used to Retin-A (meaning no dryness or irritation), you can increase it to nightly use. Some people with sensitive skin may still need to use it less often.
Order of application
If Retin-A doesn’t irritate your skin, apply it first followed by your moisturizer.
If your skin is dry or sensitive, try using the “sandwich method”:
Apply moisturizer first
Then Retin-A
Followed by another layer of moisturizer
This buffers the medication, making it less harsh on the skin.
Timing tips
Timing also matters when applying Retin-A. After washing your face, make sure your skin is completely dry before applying Retin-A (about 20 minutes). Applying it to damp skin can increase irritation. Once the Retin-A is rubbed in, you can apply the moisturizer right away.
Common mistakes to avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Using too much or starting too often increases irritation. A pea-sized amount is all you need for your whole face.
Using it as spot treatment limits how well it works. Apply a thin layer to your entire face.
Skipping moisturizer can make irritation worse. Find a moisturizer that works for you and stick with it.
Giving up too soon. It can take several weeks to see improvement, and consistency matters most.
Frequently asked questions
If you’re using tretinoin (the generic form of Retin-A), avoid moisturizers with ingredients that could potentially irritate the skin. Examples include:
Alpha and beta hydroxy acids (like glycolic acid and lactic acid)
Alcohol and menthol
Essential oils
The 1-2-3 rule is a gradual method to start Retin-A that can help minimize irritation. It’s easy to remember, but it may not work for everyone.
To do it, you apply a small amount of Retin-A:
1 night a week for week 1, then
2 nights a week for 2 weeks, then
3 nights a week for 3 weeks, then
Every other night or every night if your skin isn’t irritated
If you’re using tretinoin (the generic form of Retin-A), avoid moisturizers with ingredients that could potentially irritate the skin. Examples include:
Alpha and beta hydroxy acids (like glycolic acid and lactic acid)
Alcohol and menthol
Essential oils
The 1-2-3 rule is a gradual method to start Retin-A that can help minimize irritation. It’s easy to remember, but it may not work for everyone.
To do it, you apply a small amount of Retin-A:
1 night a week for week 1, then
2 nights a week for 2 weeks, then
3 nights a week for 3 weeks, then
Every other night or every night if your skin isn’t irritated
Bottom line
Retin-A is very effective, but it works best when it’s used properly and consistently. A good moisturizer helps make that possible by protecting your skin, lowering irritation, and keeping your routine on track. The best moisturizers to use with Retin-A include those with nourishing ingredients, like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide. Over time, combining your moisturizer with Retin-A can deliver sustained improvements in your skin.
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References
CeraVe. (n.d.). Moisturizing Cream.
EltaMd. (n.d.). EltaMD PM Restore Moisturizer.
Marques, C., et al. (2024). Mechanistic insights into the multiple functions of niacinamide: Therapeutic implications and cosmeceutical applications in functional skincare products. Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland).
Milani, M., et al. (2017). The 24-hour skin hydration and barrier function effects of a hyaluronic 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract moisturizing fluid: An intra-subject, randomized, assessor-blinded study. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology.
Neutrogena. (n.d.). Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Water Gel with Signature Fragrance 1.7 oz.
Nugroho, W. T., et al. (2023). The efficacy of moisturisers containing ceramide compared with other moisturisers in the management of atopic dermatitis: A systematic literature review and meta-analysis. Indian Journal of Dermatology.
Paula’s Choice. (n.d.). Invisible Finish Moisture Gel.
The Ordinary. (n.d.). Natural Moisturizing Factors + Beta Glucan.
Vanicream. (n.d.). Daily Facial Moisturizer.
