Went to a TO shop and asked for recommendations for something to fade away acne scars. Was recommended retinoid and I chose the version with oil because my skin is dry on my cheeks where I have my acne scars.
I should be using this in the evening. I’d like to know if moisturizer should be applied before of after retinoid. The shop assistant told me I don’t need to use moisturizer with it since it’s already oily but I recently got into a good routine of moisturizing in the morning and evening which works and would rather not discontinue it.
I’m sure I’ve seen people’s routines here which include several different things besides TO exfoliating acids, so which moisturizer would you use with it and would you apply it before or after?
I personally always apply my moisturizer after. I think it says right on the bottle to apply heavier treatments after anyways.
I always apply TO Niacinamide 10% and Zinc 2% before the retinoid. I find doing it this way works best for my extremely sensitive skin.
I use the 2% retinoid (which is not as oily or moisturizing as the 2% in squalane) and I layer two moisturizers after I apply it. First the TO NMF and then a cosrx hyaluronic acid cream. My skin isn't dry using it this way and I've definitely noticed a reduction in hyperpigmentation and congestion. I'm thinking of getting the 2% retinoid in squalane next because I've heard it's more moisturizing.
So, to answer your question, I would definitely moisturize after the retinoid with any moisturizer that suits your skin.
I started with TO .2% Retinol in Squalene, and I'll work up to a stronger concentration. I started adding it once a week, then twice, now I'm up to my current routine, which I'll hold for a while.
Use in the evening, on a clean, dry face. You may not need a moisturizer on the evenings you use it. If you choose to use one, take a break and let it soak in a bit first. I sometimes wait 30 to 60 minutes then do a sheet mask.
Remember sunscreen!
Go slow, overexfoliation is a bummer!
My current routine: Mon, Wed, Fri- AM: Cleanse, moisturize, serum, moisturize, sunscreen (some product rotation and tweaking here) PM: Double Cleanse, TO Retinol, sometimes sheet mask
Tue, Thurs- Same AM, but add TO Glycolic toner PM: Double Cleanse, Stridex Red Box, Sheet Mask, Maracuja Oil
Sat: Special treatments like Lactic, peels, clay masks, depending on needs
Sun: Gentle Cleansing and hydration multi-masking to baby my skin
I'll be stepping up the Retinol when this bottle is done, and I'm going to add a Vitamin C, soon, as well.