Can you use retinol with aloe vera?

What can aloe actually do?

Aloe gel applied to the skin is generally well tolerated. Small studies suggest that aloe gel used with other treatments may improve acne, but whether it specifically reduces retinol irritation remains uncertain. Do not rely on aloe to make an irritating retinol routine tolerable.1

Moisturizer has a clearer role alongside retinol: it helps keep moisture in the skin, and using it while starting slowly helps limit irritation. A moisturizer earns its place by keeping moisture in, not by giving the routine a longer cast list. Choose a gentle formula intended for sensitive skin; fragrances can irritate sensitive skin.34

How should you use them together?

Before starting retinol, test a little on a small area of skin. Wait a couple of days and check for redness or itching before applying it more widely. Follow the retinol package directions or your clinician's instructions rather than choosing an amount or frequency from the product name.2

1. 1At night, wash with a gentle cleanser and pat your skin dry. Avoid scrubbing.
2. 2Apply a thin layer of retinol, generally about a pea sized amount for the face. Keep it away from your eyes, mouth and nose.
3. 3Finish with a facial moisturizer labeled noncomedogenic, meaning formulated not to clog pores. If your aloe product is a facial moisturizer, this is the moisturizing step. For a separate aloe gel, follow its own label; there is no established universal aloe and retinol layering order.
4. 4During the day, use sunscreen with broad spectrum protection, SPF 30 or higher and water resistance. Protect exposed skin with clothing and seek shade.

Start with the lowest strength retinol formula you can find. Apply it every other night, or every three nights for a slower start, and increase gradually as your skin tolerates it. Retinol percentages are not always printed on the packaging, so shopping for the gentlest option can involve more detective work than a face cream deserves.34

What should you expect?

Retinol can cause dryness, redness, itching, burning and peeling, especially while you adjust. Visible improvements take several weeks; changes in fine lines usually take several months. For acne treatment generally, expect at least 6 to 8 weeks before fewer breakouts appear. Adding aloe does not give you an established shorter timetable.25

Who should be careful?

Skin allergies, marked dryness or existing redness and inflammation are reasons to discuss retinol with a dermatologist before starting. Irritation can trigger dark marks in darker skin, making a slow introduction particularly useful. Aloe itself can cause burning, itching, rash or eczema, so do not assume that a reaction must be coming from retinol.46

If you use a prescription retinoid, ask your dermatologist before changing the amount, frequency or application order. Applying moisturizer first is sometimes recommended to reduce irritation, especially with stronger retinoids. Do not use retinoids during pregnancy. If you are breastfeeding, discuss retinol use with your clinician.245

If aloe causes burning, itching or a rash, stop using the aloe product. Significant peeling or irritation is a reason to pause retinol and seek advice rather than adding more aloe. If you are treating acne, see a doctor for deep, painful spots, scarring, or acne that is not improving with self treatment.367