Can I use Cicaplast over tretinoin when my skin is dry in winter?

Why does winter make the dryness worse?

Winter air has less moisture, and indoor heating lowers humidity too, increasing water loss from your skin. Indoor heating can make the room comfortable without extending the same courtesy to your moisturizer routine. Cold weather also reduces your skin's natural oils, which help keep moisture in. Flaking, itchiness, tightness and cracking can all accompany winter dryness.34

How should I layer moisturizer over tretinoin?

1. 1Wash your hands and face with a mild cleanser that is not medicated, abrasive or drying.
2. 2Let your skin dry as directed by your tretinoin instructions.
3. 3At bedtime, apply tretinoin in a thin layer using the prescribed amount. Keep it away from your eyes, mouth and the corners of your nose.
4. 4Follow with your suitable moisturizer. Smooth it onto the skin rather than rubbing vigorously.

Moisturizing does not have to be limited to your tretinoin nights. Use moisturizer when your skin feels dry; general guidance for very dry skin allows application 2 to 4 times daily. That frequency is for moisturizers generally, so follow the directions on your Cicaplast tube. After a separate bath or shower, gently pat dry and moisturize while skin is still damp to help retain water.35

Is a richer moisturizer better?

For winter dryness, a richer moisturizer can provide a thicker protective barrier than a watery one. A lighter lotion or gel generally suits the face, but very dry facial skin can need something richer. Choose the texture for how dry your skin is, rather than assuming the heaviest option is always best.46

A useful moisturizer combines ingredients that attract water, reduce water loss, and soften rough skin. These groups are called humectants, occlusives and emollients. For sensitive skin, look for fragrance free products, but check for ingredients you already know trigger a reaction. Fragrance free does not mean allergen free.6

What else should I change in winter?

• Keep showers lukewarm and short, around 5 to 10 minutes. Hot water removes protective oils.
• Do not scrub away flakes. Exfoliation removes moisture and oils and can leave skin drier and itchier.
• Use a humidifier in your bedroom if the air is dry. Aim for indoor humidity between 30% and 50%.
• Protect exposed skin from cold wind with a scarf or other covering.
• Use sunscreen during winter too.

Do not add benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid or other topical medicines unless your prescriber approves. Use tretinoin exactly as prescribed, rather than changing its frequency yourself.1

When is moisturizer not enough?

Tell your doctor about severe or persistent burning, peeling, redness, swelling or blistering. Call immediately for rash, hives, or pain at the treated area. Do not apply tretinoin to sunburned skin or areas affected by eczema. If pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding, tell your prescriber; call if you become pregnant during treatment.1

If the moisturizer itself causes a reaction, stop using it and speak to a pharmacist about an alternative. If consistent moisturizing and gentler washing do not improve the dryness, see a healthcare provider rather than continuing to add products.56