Can you use moisturizer with Plexaderm?

What order should you use?

The general skincare order is cleanser, treatment, moisturizer or sunscreen, then makeup. Use that as a starting point, not a specific instruction to apply moisturizer over Plexaderm. Check the Plexaderm label before layering products on the same area.1

1. 1Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and gently pat it dry.
2. 2Apply Plexaderm following its own directions, including any instructions about moisturizer.
3. 3Apply moisturizer at the point those directions allow. Smooth moisturizer gently rather than rubbing it into the skin.
4. 4Include sunscreen in your daytime routine. Choose broad spectrum protection with SPF 30 or higher, including when using a moisturizer with SPF.
5. 5Apply makeup last in the general routine, while following any Plexaderm directions about makeup.

Why keep using moisturizer?

Moisturizer traps water in the skin and can immediately soften the appearance of some fine lines. Moisturizer also helps maintain the skin's protective barrier and reduce dryness. Those are useful jobs, even if hydration does not sound like a dramatic product launch. An immediate improvement in the look of fine lines is a moisturizing effect, not a reason to expect every skincare product to work immediately.24

Which moisturizer should you choose?

Choose the texture for your moisturizing needs, then check the Plexaderm directions for compatibility. Creams absorb relatively quickly and are practical for daytime use. Ointments are thicker, greasier and more moisturizing, making them useful for very dry skin and nighttime use. A light moisturizer at night can be enough for slightly dry skin. These are general texture choices, not a reason to assume a particular cream or ointment will layer successfully with Plexaderm.34

Outside the Plexaderm application sequence, apply moisturizer when your skin feels dry or tight. Moisturizers are particularly useful after washing, once you have gently patted your skin dry. How often you need moisturizer depends on the degree of dryness, rather than how many other products you use.34

What if your skin reacts?

Test a new cosmetic product on your inner forearm twice daily for 4 to 5 days before using it on your face. Stop using a nonprescription product that stings or burns. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor about a persistent reaction or a new rash. Adding more products is not the same as improving a routine, even if every bottle wants the starring role. Using several anti aging products can irritate skin.123

If you also use a prescribed steroid cream or another treatment for a skin condition, ask your doctor which product goes first. Emollients and these treatments generally need 20 to 30 minutes between applications to avoid diluting or spreading the treatment. That interval is for medical skin treatments, not a Plexaderm drying time.3