Skin care for Retin-a User In Winter.

Nov 18, 2016

Hazel H.

Right now I'm having a bit of a nasty breakout (which is weird as my skin's normally dry). I recently upped my retin-a.1 to every other day and have been noticing dehydration from dry winter air.

I use retin-a for anti-aging.

My typical night time skincare routine is sweet almond oil to get my makeup off, then burt's bees cleanser, then hyaluronic acid serum and then cerave night cream and maybe a korean sleeping pack over that or if it's a retin-a night that.

Daytime I use cerva hydrating bodywash and either eucerin calming cream or more of the cerva night moisturizer and if I'm going out doors during the day (I work nights mostly and so sleep during the day) supergoop defense setting mist over my makeup.

My skin feels dry and sensitive right now.

Nov 18, 2016

Leuca S.

I can tell you off the bat that the Supergoop setting mist is wholly insufficient sun protection by itself and is likely contributing to your dryness due to its primary ingredient being denatured alcohol. It also contains a few plant extracts such as mint which are damaging to the skin, so that on top of upping your retinoid's frequency of application could be a culprit. Even if you are not using the supergoop everyday it's loaded with stuff that's bad for your skin, but it's also important to note that underestimating the power of a retinoid is not a good idea, especially if you were using it every 3 days instead of every 2 days. You've essentially doubled your dosage which is not inconsequential when it comes to powerful ingredients.

Edit: Important to note is that your skin can be extra sensitive while adjusting to retinoids, and the supergoop also uses chemical actives for sun protection which can aggravate sensitive skin.

Nov 18, 2016

Leuca S.

I will say that I noticed a positive difference in my skin's hydration when I started adding honey to my moisturizer/serum at night. It sounds weird, but when you can get high quality raw honey for 15$ on amazon it's worth a shot in my book.

Nov 20, 2016

Claire H.

I'm not sure you should be using hyaluronic acid alongside Retin-a. This is probably too much for your skin. However, some things that worked for me when my skin was particularly dry on Retin-a are the Khiel's Ultra Facial Moisturizer and Origins' Drink Up avocado night mask. I also got very flaky, and found that one of those little silicone pads with bumps on it was perfect for exfoliating my face gently. I know they sell them at sephora for like $5, but can easily be found at dollar stores for less.