5 Moisturizers That Pair Perfectly With Tretinoin! Get Glowing!
Moisturizers are a must when using Tretinoin cream. Finding the right one is key. Here are 5 creams that will help keep your skin looking its best while using Tretinoin.
Welcome, skincare enthusiasts! We all know that achieving that radiant glow is no easy feat.
Especially when you're using a potent ingredient like Tretinoin in your routine, things can get a little tricky. It's crucial to remember that Tretinoin cream, unlike some over-the-counter creams with retinol, is a powerful medication that's only available via prescription. Because it can cause dry skin, the right moisturizer is a must to use with Tretinoin!
The potency of Tretinoin cream makes it a game-changer in the skincare world, known for its ability to fight acne, for those with acne-prone skin or oily skin. It reduces signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles and promotes overall skin health. However, this also means it can be quite harsh on the skin, because of how effectively it turns over skin cells, particularly if used without the right moisturizer to balance its effects. People with very sensitive skin especially, need the addition of the right moisturizer to protect their skin's natural barrier and to combat the redness and irritated skin they are trying to soothe.
So, while you might be tempted to jump on the Tretinoin bandwagon after hearing about its incredible benefits, remember that it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. You'll need to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional before incorporating it into your routine.
Now, let's dive into the world of moisturizers that can help you unlock the full potential of Tretinoin while keeping your skin healthy and radiant! But here's the secret: the key to maximizing the benefits of Tretinoin without the pesky side effects lies in the type of moisturizer you pair it with. That's right! The right moisturizer can be your skin's best friend, helping to combat dryness, irritation, and sensitivity often associated with Tretinoin use.
So, buckle up as we reveal 5 moisturizers that perfectly complement Tretinoin, promising you hydrated, glowing skin like never before!
How We Choose:
We've taken great care in curating this list of moisturizers that pair well with your Tretinoin prescription. Our selection process takes into account several crucial factors. First and foremost, we looked at the ingredient list of each moisturizer. We focused on products that contain skin-soothing and hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and peptides, which can help counteract the potential drying effects of Tretinoin.
We also considered the texture and consistency of the moisturizers, favoring those that are lightweight and non-greasy, to ensure they won't clog pores or cause breakouts. Additionally, we took into account user reviews and dermatologist recommendations to gauge the real-world effectiveness of these products. Finally, we looked at the price point, because we believe that achieving healthy, glowing skin shouldn't have to break the bank. So, rest assured, the moisturizers featured in this list are not only effective but also offer great value for money on any budget!
Check out the FAQ's at the bottom of the page to learn more about Tretinoin!
Let's Get Radiant!

Best in Simple
Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid & Ceramides
Why It's Fabulous:
Say hello to Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid and ceramides - a product that's quickly becoming a favorite in the beauty community.
First off, this moisturizer is packed with superstar ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid and Ceramides. Hyaluronic Acid is like a big drink of water for your skin, known for its ability to retain up to 1000 times its weight in water. It helps keep your skin plumped and hydrated, making it look youthful and radiant. On the other hand, Ceramides help to strengthen your skin's natural barrier, protecting it from environmental aggressors and locking in moisture.
Customers give 5-star reviews for how this lightweight moisturizer leaves their skin feeling soft, supple, and perfectly hydrated without any greasy residue. Many have also noted that it has helped soothe their Tretanoin-induced dryness and irritation, making their skincare journey a whole lot smoother.
In short, Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid and ceramides is a real gem in the world of skincare. It's a wonderful example of how a product can be simple yet incredibly effective.
Things To Note:
#1 Dermatologist recommended - Vanicream moisturizer is dermatologist-recommended and has the National Eczema Association's Seal of Approval. The perfect choice for those with sensitive skin!
- Fragrance-Free Lotion - Formulated without any fragrances or dyes, our lotion is sure to nourish your skin without irritating it. Paraben, lanolin, formaldehyde, and dye-free too!
- Hyaluronic Acid & Ceramides - Our unique formulation combines two powerful ingredients to provide maximum hydration with minimal irritation. Hyaluronic acid locks in moisture while ceramides replenish the skin's natural protective barrier.
- Good Manufacturing Practices - We strive to ensure that our product meets both safety and quality standards, as recommended by the FDA. Enjoy the perfect daily facial moisturizer safe in the knowledge that you're using a trusted brand
Why It's Fabulous:
Let's talk about the CeraVe Moisturizing Cream with 3 essential ceramides. This little tub of wonder is adored by many and for good reason! Developed with dermatologists, you can trust you're getting the good stuff.
Let's start with what's inside. This cream has three essential ceramides (1, 3, and 6-II) that work round the clock to restore your skin's protective barrier. Combined with the power of hyaluronic acid, it helps retain your skin's natural moisture, leaving it looking plump and youthful.
We love its patented MVE Technology (MultiVesicular Emulsion Technology) which ensures the ingredients are released slowly into your skin over time. This means you're getting long-lasting hydration and protection, not just a quick fix.
Customers give overwhelming 5-star reviews for this product. First off, it's suitable for all skin types, from dry to oily, making it a versatile addition to any skincare routine. Many users love how it deeply hydrates without feeling heavy or greasy on the skin, and that a little goes a long way. They love the generous tub size for use on the whole body.
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream with 3 essential ceramides is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for deep, long-lasting hydration. It's jam-packed with skin-loving ingredients, and its gentle formula makes it a hit among users with different skin types.
Things To Note:
24-hour hydration - Clinically proven to provide long-lasting hydration with just one application. It visibly improves skin texture and softness for up to 24 hours, giving you a healthy glow all day.
- Protects skin barrier - Formulated with three essential ceramides (1,3,6-II) and hyaluronic acid to help restore the protective skin barrier. Perfect for sensitive skin and helps protect against environmental aggressors.
- Non-greasy & fast absorbing - Easily absorbs into your skin without feeling sticky or greasy. Formulated with patented MVE (MultiVesicular Emulsion)Technology which continuously releases nourishing ingredients throughout the day so you'll never have to worry about dryness again!
- Fragrance-free - Suitable for even the most sensitive of skin, our fragrance-free moisturizing cream won't irritate or cause flare-ups. Gently smooth over your body and face after washing, morning and night for best results.
- Non-comedogenic, so even those with sensitive or acne-prone skin can enjoy its benefits without worry.
Why It's Fabulous:
Experience natural and luxurious skin hydration with BIOSSANCE Squalane and Omega Repair Moisturizer. Every morning and evening, we love a smooth whipped texture that is rich in lipids and ceramides to nourish your skin without feeling greasy. The active ingredients like squalane, hyaluronic acid, omega fatty acids, and ceramides, make this decadent repair cream fabulous.
It immediately helps to smooth out rough skin texture and crepiness. Not only will you reveal a dewy and glowing complexion with this moisturizer, but you can trust you are using clinically proven safe and effective ingredients.
We all love BIOSSANCE's commitment to nontoxic and clean beauty. The squalane is 100% plant-derived, sourced responsibly from renewable sugarcane. This commitment to ethical sourcing and sustainability is a major draw for many customers.
The heart of this moisturizer is squalane, an exceptional hydrator that mimics your skin's natural oils, promoting moisture balance and elasticity without creating an oily sheen. The product also boasts a rich blend of lipids - omega 3, 6, and 9 - which work synergistically to nourish and restore your skin's barrier, helping to maintain hydration and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Users have been effusive in their praise for this product. They love how deeply and quickly it hydrates, leaving skin feeling soft, supple, and replenished. Many have also reported a visible improvement in skin texture and overall complexion within one week!
Furthermore, the fact that it's free from parabens, synthetic fragrances, and phthalates makes it a hit among those with sensitive skin.
BIOSSANCE Squalane and Omega Repair Moisturizer is a potent mix of ingredients, coupled with its eco-friendly ethos, making it a standout product. If you're looking for a moisturizer that delivers results while also aligning with your values, this might just be the one for you.
Things To Note:
100% sugarcane-derived squalene - Our natural, non-toxic solution helps keep the oceans' coral reefs safe by replacing shark liver extract with plant-derived squalene. It's sustainably sourced and ethically produced.
- Synthetic fragrance-free - Allow your body to be pampered without worrying about artificial fragrances or PEG (Polyethylene glycol).
- Vegan-friendly - Cruelty-Free- Provide your skin with a major boost of hydration without any shame; this product is free from animal testing and guaranteed vegan-friendly!
- Paraben-free and Reef Friendly too.
- Omega Repair Moisturizer - Give your skin an added defense against environmental stressors with our unique blend of jojoba oil, shiso leaf and sea fennel extracts. This will help restore and rebalance moisture leaving you feeling refreshed and energized!
Why It's Fabulous:
Glow Recipe's Plum Plump Hyaluronic Serum is a deeply hydrating serum that has quickly become a favorite of many, and today we're going to explore why.
First off, what makes this serum unique is its star ingredient - the superfruit plum. Glow Recipe’s formulation includes not one but three types of plum: Kakadu, Illawarra, and Burdekin. These fruits are known for their antioxidant properties, which help protect the skin from environmental damage, and they're also packed with vitamins and minerals that promote healthy skin.
But the goodness doesn't stop at plums. The serum also boasts hyaluronic acid, a powerhouse ingredient renowned for its ability to hold 1000 times its weight in water. This helps your skin stay deeply hydrated, resulting in a plump, fresh and youthful glow.
Customers love this product for a multitude of reasons. Many rave about how it leaves their skin feeling supple and smooth without any sticky residue. The lightweight texture absorbs quickly, making it a great addition to both morning and evening skincare routines. Plus, it's vegan and cruelty-free, which is a big plus for ethically-minded consumers.
Customers have reordered this product well in advance of running out! It is a must-have for extremely dry and sensitive skin as it becomes their skin's natural barrier. They love that you can buy refill pods that are sealed for your glass jar so that you don't have to keep purchasing the glass container. Brilliant! They love the way it glides on the skin. Many have seen results in as little as one week! They feel it is worth every penny.
In a nutshell, Glow Recipe's Plum Plump Hyaluronic Serum is a fantastic blend of hydration and antioxidant protection, all wrapped up in a delightful, fast-absorbing formula.
Things To Note:
Enjoy balanced, hydrated skin with this hydrating Glow Recipe Face Cream! Combining Hyaluronic acid, Plum Extract, and Polyglutamic Acid, this formulation locks in hydration to keep your skin feeling silky soft all day.
- Free of parabens, mineral oils, silicones, phthalates, drying alcohols & synthetic dyes
- Vegan and cruelty-free moisturizer
- Great for sensitive skin!-caters to all skin types for a delicate balance between nourishment and hydration.
- Hyaluronic Acid for hydration- A powerful blend of 5 different weights of hyaluronic acid that each targets different layers of skin for a plump complexion.
- Enjoy the luscious scent of amber subtly blended into the creamy formula for a soothing spa-like experience. Your skin will feel restored and invigorated after application.
- This luxurious treatment restores vibrancy to tired complexions while providing intense moisture.
Why It's Fabulous:
We're excited to share with you a product that has been making waves in the beauty community - the Skinfix Barrier + Triple Lipid-Peptide Refillable Face Cream.
Firstly, what sets this face cream apart is its 95% natural formulation. It's a deeply hydrating, nutrient-dense cream designed with a high concentration of active ingredients, including shea butter, seaweed hyaluronate and lily root. These actives are well-known for their superior hydrating properties, enhancing your skin's moisture levels for an optimally hydrated, healthy glow. Hello, skin health! Goodbye, dry skin!
Secondly, it's worth noting that this product is dermatologist-tested. It's not only clinically proven to moisturize and enhance radiance but is also recommended by unbiased dermatologists. Its noncomedogenic nature will not clog pores, making it suitable for all skin types.
This cream also helps to maintain a healthy skin barrier. Dry and sensitive skin don't stand a chance as this hydrating moisturizer becomes your skin's personal suit of armor, protecting you from a range of skin damages, from premature aging to severe dryness and irritated skin to redness and inflammation.
So, why do customers absolutely love it and consistently give it 5-star reviews? Well, aside from its impressive ingredient list and dermatologist approval, users report that it delivers on its promises. They rave about how it leaves their skin feeling deeply nourished, visibly radiant, and exceptionally soft. They appreciate that it's gentle on sensitive skin, yet effective at combating dryness and enhancing their skin's natural defense system. Furthermore, its refillable packaging is a hit among environmentally-conscious consumers. Its no-mess dispenser is a big hit! No more digging into tubs of cream. The correct amount is dispensed each time!
With its consistent 5-star reviews, it's clear that Skinfix Barrier+ is a customer favorite for good reason.
Things To Note:
Powerful Ingredients: Enjoy the replenishing benefits of Hydrating Triple-Lipid Complex, Firming Nutri-Peptide Blend and Plumping Seaweed Hyaluronate Blend. This cream is carefully crafted to help restore ceramide and fatty acid levels, support the skin barrier, and provide deep hydration.
- Peace Of Mind Formula: Safely nourish your skin with this formulation free from fragrances, parabens, sulfates and more.
- Vegan, gluten-free, cruelty-free and from a trusted brand.
- Lily Root for tightness-Triple lipid complex for ceramide and fatty acid replenishment-Peptide Protein blend to protect from free radicals and Seaweed Hyaluronate to pull moisture into the skin.
- For Sensitive Skin: This keeps your skin’s natural protective function intact even with frequent use thanks to its natural nonirritating ingredients. Glides on easily to help you achieve a refreshed complexion so you can look and feel your best.
- Refillable: Reduce waste while getting the most out of every single use with its convenient refillable packaging; worry no more about replacing empty containers!
FAQ's:
What is Tretinoin Cream?
Tretinoin is a Vitamin A derivative and belongs to a class of medications called retinoids. It works by affecting the growth of skin cells, and skin cell turnover. Tretinoin is used to treat acne or other skin diseases as determined by your doctor. Tretinoin creams are also used to treat fine wrinkles, dark spots, or rough skin on the face caused by the damaging rays of the sun.
Are Retinol and Tretinoin the same thing?
Retinol is naturally derived from vitamin A. Tretinoin is a synthetic form of Vitamin A. Tretinoin cream is significantly stronger than retinol and requires a prescription. You can get retinol compounds over the counter.
What id the Downside of Tretinoin?
Despite its effectiveness, tretinoin cream can have side effects, such as red, dry, or peeling skin. There can also be a burning or itching when applied. These side effects generally dissipate over time.
Can I buy Tretinoin Over the Counter?
Tretinoin cream isn't available over the counter (OTC). You can only get it with a prescription from a healthcare provider.
Which is more powerful, Tretinoin or Retinol?
Tretinoin cream is the more potent of the two. Retinol can be used as an ingredient in creams and serums over-the-counter (OTC). There is also a prescription retinol cream.
Can I use Tretinoin every night?
Yes, you can use tretinoin cream every night, however, Tretinoin can cause skin irritation and peeling, especially when you first start using it, so the best practice is to ease into it as per your doctor’s recommendation.
Can I use Tretinoin with a Moisturizer?
Yes. It's perfectly safe to use a moisturizer with tretinoin. Using a moisturizer with tretinoin is highly recommended.
Do you put Tretinoin on before or after a Moisturizer?
For best results, moisturizers should be applied before Tretinoin. Apply moisturizer within 3 minutes after drying your face. You can wait 15 minutes before applying Tretinoin.
Can I put Tretinoin under my eyes?
You can use tretinoin around your eyes, as long as you're careful. Avoid your upper eyelid entirely. Don't get too close to the lower lash line when you're rubbing it in. Dermatologists recommend leaving a gap of at least 5 mm between your tretinoin cream and your lower eyelid.
How long does it take for Tretinoin to work?
While you may start noticing results from using tretinoin after 2-3 weeks, it usually takes 6 or more weeks to experience the full effects.

Nelly's Note:
Tretinoin, when prescribed by your doctor is an amazing ingredient to incorporate into your skincare routine. But as with all powerful ingredients, it's important to stick to the proper protocols when using it.
With the right moisturizer, you can help protect your skin from dryness, irritation, and sensitivity associated with its powerful effects. Remember that while some over-the-counter creams contain retinol, which is fantastic, Tretinoin is not over the counter yet.
Be sure to invest in the right moisturizer that can help combat the side effects of Tretinoin, for a complexion that’s brighter, smoother and healthier than ever! Whether you are using them as a night cream with your tretinoin, or a daytime cream, all of the moisturizers listed above are safe to use with tretinoin cream. We think they are the best moisturizers to use with tretinoin cream.
These moisturizers are of course stand-alone products as well for people who want a great moisturizer or perhaps have dry or sensitive skin. We all deserve beautiful skin!
All that's left is to click on the right product now and transform your skin into something beautiful.



