Should you put lotion on after retinol?

How to apply retinol and lotion

1. 1Test a little retinol on a small area before using it across your face. Check for redness or itching over the next couple of days.
2. 2At bedtime, wash with a gentle cleanser and pat your skin dry. Do not scrub. Wait 20 to 30 minutes after washing before applying the retinol.
3. 3Spread about a pea sized amount in a thin layer across your face, keeping it out of your eyes, mouth and nose.
4. 4Finish with a facial moisturizer labelled noncomedogenic, meaning formulated not to clog pores.
5. 5Start every other night for the first couple of weeks, or once every few days if you need a slower introduction. Increase use gradually as tolerated and within the product's directions.

Can you put moisturizer on first?

Yes. For a drying retinol routine, apply a thin layer of moisturizer immediately after cleansing, then wait 20 to 30 minutes before applying retinol. Moisturizer first gives your skin a little barrier while still allowing retinol to work. You do not have to stick with retinol first when that order is uncomfortable.24

If you use a prescription retinoid, ask your dermatologist before changing the amount, frequency or layering order. Applying moisturizer first, using less medication or applying it less often are options a dermatologist can use to reduce irritation, especially with stronger retinoids.5

What lotion should you use?

Choose a gentle facial moisturizer suited to your skin's needs, and avoid heavily fragranced products. Moisturizers help prevent water evaporating from your skin. Use moisturizer in the morning as well as at night, rather than reserving it only for retinol nights.1

Choose products that complement each other rather than repeat the same job, because a skincare routine is not a competition for most bottles. If you already use a separate retinol serum, you probably do not need a moisturizer containing retinol too. Some moisturizers contain exfoliating acids, so consider the whole formula rather than treating every face cream as interchangeable.2

When should you stop or get advice?

Retinol can cause dryness, redness, peeling, itching or burning. If a product irritates your skin, stop using it and arrange a dermatologist appointment rather than continuing to apply it under more lotion. With prescription treatment, contact your prescriber about how to adjust the routine. Irritation does not necessarily mean you are allergic to the medication.135

Be especially careful if you have sensitive skin or eczema, which topical retinoids can worsen through drying. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to your healthcare provider before using retinol. Some topical retinoids are contraindicated in pregnancy, meaning they must not be used.36

What should you expect?

Retinol takes several weeks to produce visible improvement, and changes in fine lines usually take several months. Moisturizer supports hydration during that time; it does not make retinol an overnight treatment. Retinoids can also increase sun sensitivity. In the morning, apply sunscreen after moisturizer, choosing SPF 30 or higher with broad spectrum protection and water resistance. Use shade and protective clothing too.3456