Best Moisturizers to Use With Tretinoin
Tretinoin is one of the most effective topical treatments in dermatology but it’s also one of the most irritating if your routine isn’t set up correctly.
I’m a board-certified dermatologist, and one of the most common reasons patients quit tretinoin is dryness, burning, and barrier damage caused by the wrong moisturizer.
Below are the moisturizers I actually recommend to patients using tretinoin based on skin type, sensitivity, and real-world tolerability.
If your moisturizer already burns, start with my guide on why moisturizer stings and what to do instead.
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Quick Answer
The best moisturizer to use with tretinoin is one that supports the skin barrier without adding unnecessary actives or fragrance.
The exact product depends on whether your skin is acne-prone, extremely dry, or prone to irritation.
Why Tretinoin Causes Dryness and Irritation
Tretinoin increases skin cell turnover. While this improves acne, texture, and pigmentation, it also temporarily weakens the skin barrier.
Without adequate barrier support, this leads to:
- Burning or stinging
- Peeling and flaking
- Redness and sensitivity
Best Moisturizers to Use With Tretinoin
Avène Tolérance
Avène Tolérance is one of my top recommendations (and one of my holy grails) for patients whose skin becomes extremely reactive on tretinoin.
It has a minimalist ingredient list and is especially helpful when even “gentle” products start to sting.
Best for: highly sensitive, reactive, or rosacea-prone skin
La Roche-Posay Double Repair Moisturizer
La Roche-Posay Double Repair is an excellent option if you need barrier support but don’t tolerate very heavy creams.
It layers well with tretinoin and works for patients who want something protective but still cosmetically elegant.
Best for: combination skin using tretinoin
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream (With Occlusive on Top)
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is ideal for patients who develop significant dryness or eczema on tretinoin.
For more severe irritation, I often recommend layering CeraVe Healing Ointment on top at night to seal in moisture and support barrier repair.
Best for: very dry, compromised skin barriers
Vanicream Facial Moisturizer
Vanicream Facial Moisturizer is my go-to for patients who are acne-prone but still experience irritation on tretinoin.
It provides hydration without clogging pores or adding common irritants.
Best for: sensitive, acne-prone skin on tretinoin
Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream
Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream is a good option for patients who want something richer but still well-tolerated while using tretinoin.
While not a traditional drugstore product, it is widely available and works well for patients who don’t tolerate heavier occlusives.
Best for: normal to dry skin using tretinoin