MS
Mid Skin Dilemmas
December 23, 2022 at 08:05 AM
What moisturiser works after using Differin retinoid (one for acne/sensitive skin)?
My dermatologist prescribed Differin (retinoid gel) and Doxycycline (antibiotics) for next 2 months. At same time she recommended I start using a Glycolic Acid Fash wash and an oil free moisturiser.
My skin is pretty sensitive, I tried a moisturiser from La Roche Posay, Effaclar Duo (+) but it irritated my skin and I had to wash it off after a few minutes.
I’m looking for an alternative moisturiser that is calming, oil free and won’t block my pores and worsen my acne. Help!
Thanks!
Skincare Routine
4 comments
It's a bit surprising the derm would recommend "oil-free" moisturizer - it's a pure marketing term, but maybe they mean something that is light texture and without common comedogenic ingredients like coconut oil or myristyl myristate. I think the option from the Ordinary might work for you: https://whatsinmyjar.com/product/the-ordinary-natural-moisturizing-factors-ha
You seem to have an irritant reaction going on atm - of course, if you can, it's best to check with your derm. It might make sense to reduce the frequency of adapalene (every other night instead of daily) and pause the glycolic acid wash until the redness is gone. Then, you can try adding one extra application of adapalene per week (if the irritation doesn't come back) until you reach daily again. Then, you can try re-introducing the glycolic wash every other day.
Also, the glycolic acid wash you are using now can be quite irritating because it contains menthol and fragrance. I'd switch to smth like this (but only after the irritation is gone): https://whatsinmyjar.com/product/neutrogena-stubborn-texture-tm-acne-cleanser-for-textured-skin
Sorry for multiple comments, just also wanted to check if the derm recommended a sunscreen? I know this might be the last product you want to wear right now, but it is super important when going outside - it will help prevent persistent post-acne pigmentation marks and also make your sensitized skin less vulnerable to the aging sun radiation. Go for a mineral-based product, for example smth from these options: https://whatsinmyjar.com/search/sunscreens/matt-finish?spf_filter_type=true&irritancy=1
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