Best moisturizer to use with retinol serum

skin care concerns Should Retinol Come Before or After Moisturizer?

Find out when and why the order matters.

May 18, 2022

Retinol

As far as major skin care questions go, whether you should apply retinol products before or after moisturizer is right up there at the top of the list. While we’ve seen arguments on both sides of the coin, we tend to believe that the answer isn’t so simple. 

Retinol has numerous well-researched and reported benefits, but in order to reap them, you have to use it correctly 一 and that could depend on several factors. To understand when in your skin care routine to use retinol, and to make sure your attempts to use retinol don’t go awry, keep reading.

There is no hard and fast rule about using retinol or moisturizer first. The order you should apply it in depends on the actual product you’re using. Retinol can be included in all sorts of different formulas, such as retinol creams and retinol serums, and how you apply them will vary. 

The general rule of thumb is to apply a retinol product the same way you would any other skin care product —  from the thinnest consistency to the thickest. While we can’t give you a foolproof answer as to whether you should always apply retinol before or after moisturizer, what we can do is break down when to apply retinol, based on the type of product it is. 

Here’s your easy guide to nailing your skin care routine order every time.


When to Apply a Cleanser With Retinol

Cleansing is the first step of any skin care routine, and that holds true if you have a cleanser formulated with retinol. Wet your face and hands, then massage the cleanser over your skin. Rinse with lukewarm water.

When to Apply a Serum With Retinol

To apply a serum with retinol correctly, smooth it onto clean skin after you cleanse and before your moisturizer. Your serum will have a thinner consistency than your moisturizer, which is what determines the application order. 

To use the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Night Serum, 0.3% Pure Retinol, apply two to three drops to freshly-cleansed, dry skin at night and follow up with your moisturizer. 

Editor’s tip: If your routine consists of more than one serum, again, apply from the thinnest to the thickest formula. We love pairing our retinol serum with L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum to ensure the skin is hydrated. Apply the hyaluronic acid serum first, then use the retinol. 


When to Apply a Moisturizer With Retinol

If you’re using a moisturizer formulated with retinol, like the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Pressed Night Moisturizer with Retinol, Niacinamide, application will be similar to your normal moisturizer. Cleanse, apply any serums in your routine, then layer your moisturizer. In this case, you don’t have separate retinol and moisturizer steps — you’re knocking out two steps in one.


When to Apply an Eye Cream With Retinol

An eye cream or eye treatment is meant to be applied just like your other skin care products 一 in order from the thinnest to thickest density. A formula with retinol, like the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Triple Power Eye Treatment, should be applied after your serums and before moisturizer due to its consistency. 

Apply it in small dots around your eyes. Then, tap gently with your ring finger until it’s thoroughly absorbed into the skin. You want to treat your eye area delicately, as being too rough can contribute to fine lines — and they’re probably one of the reasons you’ve reached for an eye cream with retinol in the first place. 

Next: 10 Best Wrinkle Fighting Creams for Smoother Skin

Edited by: Alyssa Kaplan, Photographer: Chaunte Vaughn, Associate Creative Director: Melissa San Vicente Landestoy, Art Director: Hannah Packer, Associate Creative Producer: Becca Solovay, Associate Content Director: Shalwah Evans, Makeup Artist: Jonet Williamson, Hair Stylist: Akihisa Yamaguchi, Wardrobe Stylist: Alexis Badiyi, Props: Katrina Rozeville, Photo Assistant: Sam Kang, Digital Technician: Kyle Thompson, Production Assistant: Tiarra Nero, Model: Sarah Hart

A skincare routine is all about addressing all your skin concerns without compromising on maintaining your skin’s basic level of moisturization. So, when you include tretinoin or retinol to treat fine lines, wrinkles, acne, and hyperpigmentation, it may alter the typical state of your skin by potentially drying it out, which is why it helps to include the best moisturizer to use with tretinoin cream in your regimen. After all, maintaining a healthy level of moisturization is key to having flawless skin.

While tretinoin is exceptionally beneficial for various skin concerns, it has some side effects, too. Using tretinoin cream might dry out your skin, and that is why you need a good quality, hydrating moisturizer. The combination of tretinoin cream and a good moisturizer calls for blemish-free and smooth skin. In addition, a good moisturizer will help restore your skin’s natural barrier and provide deep hydration.

If you are unsure which moisturizer to pair with your tretinoin cream, this article is just for you. To make your job easy, we have curated a list of the best moisturizers to use with tretinoin cream. Scroll down and take your best pick now!

Our Top Picks
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Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream Extra-Dry
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CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
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La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer
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Differin Oil-Absorbing Moisturizer With Sunscreen
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Vichy Laboratories Aqualia Thermal Riche - Rich Moisturizer
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Eau Thermale Avène Skin Recovery Cream
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Simple Kind to Skin Replenishing Rich Moisturizer
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Juice Beauty The Organic Solution SPF 30 Oil-Free Moisturizer
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COSRX Comfort Ceramide Cream
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SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 Moisturizer
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In This Article

  • 10 Best Moisturizers To Use With Tretinoin Creams To Soothe Your Skin
  • How To Choose Moisturizer To Use With Tretinoin Cream
  • How To Use Moisturizer To Use With Tretinoin Cream
  • Frequently Asked Questions

1. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream Extra-Dry

This is indeed one of the best moisturizers to use with tretinoin cream and together, they work like the Batman and Robin in terms of skincare. Formulated with hyaluronic acid, this facial moisturizer for Retin A peeling leaves dry skin smooth, supple, and super hydrated. It locks in moisture for long hours and restores skin’s natural barrier. The non-comedogenic formula of the gel cream from this dermatologist-recommended brand absorbs quickly like gel and is suitable for any skin type. It repairs skin damage and is oil-free, dye-free, and fragrance-free. Check out this review for a closer look into the product.

Pros

  • Fragrance-free
  • Suitable for extra dry skin
  • Makes your skin smooth and soft
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Dermatologist-recommended
  • Oil-free and dye-free

Cons

  • Some may find it a little greasy.

Dr. Schwarzburg, a leading authority in the field of minimally invasive cosmetic and laser medicine in New York City, suggests, “When starting a new product, always start off with a patch test to see how your skin responds to it. This is particularly important if you are using harsher products such as tretinoin.”

2. CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion

While acne itself can be painful, it can be even more difficult if your Retin A treatment causes any discomfort or side effects. Hence, you need the best moisturizer to use with tretinoin cream. Add this facial moisturizer as the last step in your evening skin care routine to soothe your skin. Formulated using MVE technology with 3 essential ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid, it helps soothe and calm your skin. The lotion is one of the best products to use with Retin A as it retains your skin’s moisture and restores its natural barrier. It is a dermatologist-recommended product that is gentle on the skin and hence is suitable for dry, sensitive, oily, and acne-prone skin.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Uses MVE Technology
  • Restores skin’s natural barrier
  • Dermatologist-recommended
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Fragrance and paraben-free
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Allergy-tested

Cons

  • Some may find the consistency slightly thicker.

3. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

One of the best moisturizers to use with retinol cream for all the right reasons, this can be your own personal holy grail moisturizer. It helps restore the health of your skin with its high concentration of prebiotic thermal water, ceramide-3, niacinamide, and glycerin. The oil-free moisturizer with a creamy texture moisturizes skin and locks it in for up to 48 hours! Dermatologist-recommended and allergy-tested, it is suitable for sensitive skin and does not clog your pores. It helps restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier. With all that’s been said about this product, we’re sure you understand how it can be a perfect addition to your at-home self-care routine. This video review will help you understand more about the product.

Pros

  • Fragrance and paraben-free
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Allergy-tested
  • Oil-free
  • Restores skin’s natural barrier

Cons

  • May take some time to get absorbed into the skin

4. Differin Oil-Absorbing Moisturizer With Sunscreen

You need not think about robbing a bank for great skincare. Try this best moisturizer for Retin A dryness which is affordable while also being effective. Recommended by dermatologists, It comes with broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection from the sun, helping you shoot two birds with one stone. Its lightweight and non-comedogenic formula utilize micropearl technology and oleosome technology to soothe your skin, protect it from sun damage, and to absorb surface oil for a matte finish. It provides maximum hydration to your skin and does not leave your skin greasy or sticky. Thus, this moisturizer can be a perfect addition to your self-care routine. If you are still unsure, check out this honest unboxing review.

Pros

  • Non-greasy
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Fragrance-free
  • Dermatologist-recommended
  • Offers matte-finish
  • Hydrates your skin
  • Protects from harmful sun rays

Cons

  • Contains phenoxyethanol

Dr. Schwarzburg, a leading authority in the field of minimally invasive cosmetic and laser medicine in New York City, says, “Non-greasy moisturizers are great for people who have acne prone or already greasy skin.”

5.Vichy Laboratories Aqualia Thermal Riche – Rich Moisturizer

We call this among the best moisturizers to use with retinol cream as it meets all the criteria of an exceptional moisturizer to be a part of your skincare routine, especially when you are undergoing a tretinoin treatment. It not only provides 48-hour moisturization to your dry and parched skin but also gets absorbed into the skin in no time to strengthen the skin barrier. This rich and refreshing cream contains 97% natural origin ingredients like hyaluronic acid, plant sugar, and 15 mineral-rich Vichy volcanic water that soothe your skin and improve your complexion. This is a good moisturizer to use with Retin A as it also smoothes out fine lines to make your skin soft and supple while adding a natural glow.

Pros

  • Reduces fine lines
  • Offers deep moisturization
  • Rich, creamy texture
  • Strengthens skin barrier
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Paraben-free and allergy-tested

Cons

  • Some may find it slightly heavy.

6. Eau Thermale Avène Skin Recovery Cream

Skin irritation and redness due to tretinoin cream can make every day a challenge, but not anymore. Boost your self-confidence with this moisturizer to use with Retin A. The face moisturizer is made with minimum ingredients to provide maximum tolerance against skin irritation and redness. The ingredients include paracrine, plant squalene, glycerin, and Avene thermal spring water that help calm your skin and restore its natural barrier. Recommended for irritated and hypersensitive skin, it protects and nourishes your skin by providing deep hydration. Look no further as this is your solution to soft and smooth skin.

Pros

  • Hypoallergenic
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Paraben and fragrance-free
  • Gluten-free
  • Oil and soy-free
  • Helps reduce redness and irritation

Cons

  • Slightly expensive

7. Simple Kind to Skin Replenishing Rich Moisturizer

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Treating acne with tretinoin cream can be expensive and hence, if you would like to cut down on the budget, you can try this moisturizer to use with retinol cream. This budget-friendly product is effective in moisturizing and nourishing your skin with its skin-loving ingredients like pro-vitamin B5, glycerin, bisabolol, and allantoin. The face moisturizer works for up to 12 hours and leaves your skin silky smooth. Cruelty-free and vegan, this non-comedogenic moisturizer is tested and approved by dermatologists even for sensitive skin. As it does not contain any harmful chemicals, it mostly does not cause any skin irritation and does not clog pores. See? not all good products need to be expensive.

Pros

  • Non-greasy
  • Suitable for sensitive skin
  • Does not clog pores
  • Brightens complexion
  • Cruelty-free and vegan
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Hypoallergenic

Cons

  • Some may find the scent unpleasant.

8. Juice Beauty The Organic Solution SPF 30 Oil-Free Moisturizer

Sunscreen is an inevitable part of your skin care, especially if you are using a tretinoin cream as it makes your skin more photo-sensitive. So, buy one product and get 2 major benefits. This lightweight, zinc-based broad spectrum SPF 30 moisturizer provides protection from harmful rays of the sun and helps prevent early signs of aging. This is one of the best moisturizers to use with tretinoin cream as it is suitable for oily, combination, and blemish-prone skin. Formulated with organic grape and pomegranate, soothing aloe vera, vitamins, antioxidants, and nutrient rich sea alga, it hydrates your skin quickly and promotes healthy-looking skin. The hyaluronic acid present in the non-comedogenic formula helps restore skin’s moisture and natural barrier.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Helps prevent early signs of aging
  • Antioxidant-rich formula
  • Absorbs quickly into skin
  • Promotes healthy-looking skin
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Reef-friendly
  • Formulated with organic ingredients

Cons

  • Some may find it slightly sticky.

9. COSRX Comfort Ceramide Cream

Your skin will thank you for relieving irritation and dryness when you use this K-beauty product which easily counts as one of the best moisturizers to use with retinol cream. Its buttery-smooth formula gets absorbed quickly into your skin to soothe and comfort it. The key ingredients of this good moisturizer to use with retin A that include ceramide NP, centella asiatica medical grade extract, and centella asiatica leaf water help repair your damaged skin and protect it from environmental irritants and loss of moisture. The matte balm texture does not leave your skin greasy or sticky, and can be used by anyone irrespective of their age. This cream is all the more beneficial when you use it post-breakout.

Pros

  • Repairs damaged skin
  • Improves skin elasticity
  • Maintains skin’s natural barrier
  • Promotes healthy skin
  • Rich and creamy texture

Cons

  • May not be suitable for extremely sensitive skin

10. SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 Moisturizer

Find your true beauty with this moisturizer that can be used with tretinoin cream. Its one-of-a-kind formula that contains lipids, including 2% pure ceramides, 4% natural cholesterol, and 2% fatty acids help restore skin’s natural barrier and promote natural healing of your skin. As it helps improve skin’s ability to self-repair, over a period of time, you’d notice better skin texture. The moisturizer for Retin A peeling offers intense hydration for 24 hours to your dry skin. It helps improve the appearance of fine lines and evens out your skin tone. With better skin elasticity and reduced pore size, you can flaunt your skin without any hesitation.

Pros

  • Improves skin’s ability to self-repair
  • Restores skin’s natural barrier
  • Improves texture and radiance
  • Anti-aging formula
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Evens out skin tone
  • Helps soothe fine lines and firmness

Cons

  • Slightly expensive

Now that you have gone through our list of the best moisturizers that work great with tretinoin to keep your skin hydrated, we recommend that you refer to our comprehensive buying guide to keep all the important factors in mind while purchasing one.

How To Choose Moisturizer To Use With Tretinoin Cream

  • Ingredients

It is advised to avoid using moisturizers with harsh alcohols, vitamin C, benzoyl peroxide, glycolic, and lactic acids while using tretinoin cream. Gentle moisturizers and cleansers would be the best for your skincare routine. You can look for ingredients like glycerin, oat kernel extract, bisabolol, ceramides, and antioxidants as they help to soothe and hydrate your skin.

  • SPF Formula

As you use a Retin-A cream, your skin will become more sensitive to sun even though you apply the cream at night. Hence, you can look for a moisturizer with SPF to protect your skin from sunburn and save the efforts of your Retin-A cream.

  • Non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic

While you pick a moisturizer, look for hypoallergenic ones if you have sensitive skin as it tends to prevent any allergic reactions. Hypoallergenic products are mostly free of common allergens. And if you are on a Retin-A cream for your acne-prone skin, you should check if the formula is non-comedogenic so that it does not clog your pores and makes your breakouts worse.

Dr. Schwarzburg, a leading authority in the field of minimally invasive cosmetic and laser medicine in New York City, suggests, “You should still speak with your doctor if you are prone to allergies, even with a hypoallergenic product.”

Now that you have learned what are the best moisturizers to use with tretinoin cream and how to pick a moisturizer to use along with your Retin-A cream, let’s look at how to use one.

How To Use Moisturizer To Use With Tretinoin Cream

Step 1- Wait for at least 20 minutes after you apply the tretinoin cream.

Step 2- Apply your moisturizer, but avoid applying too much or too little of it at once.

Step 3- If you are leaving the tretinoin cream overnight, wash it off in the morning with a gentle cleanser.

Step 4- After cleansing, apply the moisturizer, preferably, a water-based one.

Treating sun-damaged skin and acne is painful, but the results would be tremendous using the right tretinoin creams. However, it is said that tretinoin irritates the skin and makes it dry. So your skin needs a moisturizer that goes well with tretinoin to get flawlessly hydrated skin. The combination of moisturizer and tretinoin creams provides smooth and blemish-free skin. In addition, a well-formulated moisturizer provides deep hydration repairing skin damage. It would be ideal to invest in a moisturizer that goes well in combination with tretinoin cream to eliminate sun-damaged skin or acne while keeping the skin hydrated. However, steer clear of moisturizers that do not go well with sensitive skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should you apply Retin-A?

When you start using it, it is generally advised that you apply Retin-A every other night or every third night. As your skin starts adjusting to it, you can apply more frequently.

Can you leave tretinoin cream on overnight?

You may leave the cream on overnight and wash it off with a gentle cleanser in the morning so that it does not cause any problem with any other topical products you use during the day.

How to prevent dry skin when using tretinoin?

If your skin dries when you use tretinoin, you may use a moisturizer that is free of potential irritants.

Should I use a moisturizer on my skin that appears to have minor burning after using tretinoin cream?

Yes, you can use a moisturizer in such a case, but remember to invest in a lightweight, gentle formulation that does not have potent skin actives like vitamin C, alcohols, or acids. Instead, look for gel- or water-based formulas that soothe the skin without feeling too greasy.

Recommended Articles:

  • Best Retinol Creams For A Younger You
  • Best Moisturizers For Dry Skin
  • Best Moisturizers For Sensitive Skin
  • Best Lightweight Moisturizers For All Skin Types

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  • Reviewer
  • Author

Kirtana has a postgraduate degree in mass communication and journalism from St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru. She developed a deep passion... more

Dr. Schwarzburg is a leading authority in the field of minimally invasive cosmetic and laser medicine in New York City.... more

Which moisturizer works best with retinol?

Trying retinol?.
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer..
Honest Beauty Hydrogel Cream..
Vanicream Moisturizing Lotion..
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream..
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream..
Aveeno Calm and Restore Oat Gel Moisturizer..

Do you use retinol serum and moisturizer together?

Mix It Up. One tip to help your skin adjust to retinol is to mix your retinol with your face moisturizer and then apply it to your skin. This allows the retinol to be a little gentler on your skin, which is great if you have sensitive skin.

Should you use moisturizer after using retinol?

Regardless of your skin type or which product you use first, a layer of moisturizer should always be applied after retinoids.

What can you pair with retinol?

"Retinol is an effective anti-aging ingredient, but can exacerbate skin dryness," explains Dr. Lortscher. Do Mix: Retinol with moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides as well as SPF.