How to Properly Layer Retinol with Moisturizer

When adding retinol to your skincare routine, a common question arises: should you apply it before or after your moisturizer? For those with oily skin, getting this order right can greatly impact achieving a radiant look without unwanted shine. Let’s break it down!

The general advice is to apply retinol to clean skin first. This allows the product to penetrate effectively and deliver its benefits. After waiting a few minutes, applying a moisturizer can help seal in hydration and reduce the chance of irritation. However, everyone’s skin is different! Some people, especially those with sensitive skin, may find that applying moisturizer first works better for them.

A useful tip is to start with a low concentration of retinol and gradually increase it as your skin adjusts. This approach can help minimize irritation and guide you to the perfect routine for your skin type. Have you experimented with different layering techniques? What has your experience with retinol been like? I’d love to hear your thoughts!