Can I use centella with retinol?

How to use centella with retinol

1. 1Before using retinol for the first time, test a small area of skin and wait a couple of days. If it becomes very red or itchy, do not add retinol to your routine.
2. 2Cleanse gently and pat your skin dry. Do not scrub.
3. 3Apply a thin layer of retinol to your face, avoiding your eyes, nose and mouth. Follow the product directions for the amount.
4. 4Start every other day for the first couple of weeks. Increase use gradually only if your skin tolerates it, and follow your provider's directions if you have a prescription.
5. 5If your centella product is a moisturizer, use it after retinol. If it is another type of product, follow its label rather than assuming every format goes in the same place.

What centella adds

Centella asiatica has been studied for wound healing and effects on inflammation. Those findings do not prove that a centella skin care product prevents retinol irritation. Centella is also called Gotu Kola or Tiger Grass, giving one plant more aliases than a quiet botanical needs.3

What to expect from retinol

Retinol is a form of vitamin A used for acne and to improve the look of uneven tone and texture. It can cause dryness, redness, itching, burning or peeling, especially as your skin adjusts. Visible improvement takes several weeks, and changes to dark spots or wrinkles can take months. Retinol comes in creams, gels, lotions, ointments and serums, so one ingredient has apparently negotiated a larger wardrobe than the rest of the routine.1

Use sunscreen during the day

Use retinol in the evening because it can make skin more sensitive to the sun. During the day, use sunscreen and protect your skin with shade and sun protective clothing.2

Who should be careful with retinol

Do not use retinol during pregnancy. People with skin allergies or dryness are poor candidates for retinoids. If your skin already has redness or inflammation, avoid retinol and ask a dermatologist about other options. Irritation can trigger dark marks in darker skin, so start slowly and use moisturizer if you do use a retinoid.2

Choosing an over the counter retinol

Over the counter retinol labels are not required to disclose the percentage. Choose the lowest formulation you can find and start slowly; the amount of retinol in a product is not always obvious from its packaging.2