Tretinoin virgin

[AppleDumplingWithCustard]

I have just used my first dose of this (lowest dose from Skin&Me) and absolutely hate the feel of it. Is it supposed to make your skin feel so dry and tight? I’ve followed instructions and slathered on moisturiser but still feel as though I’m wearing a mask. It’s horrible.

It can do yes, make sure you apply it on dry skin and you might want to do every other night at first
i have been using it about 5 years now and dont always moisturise after so it improves!

I use illiyoon moisturiser after it. Really helps.

I have been using Tret for 20+ years. (Since before those companies existed, so just medical Tret cream.) I will always advocate starting slowly. Use it twice a week for a month, then every second day, then every day. You will get the benefits without the uglies. Make sure you are careful about other actives. I can’t use niacinamide over 4% and forget about zinc. I would obviously avoid using aha/bha products on the days you are using Tret, and maybe use an occlusive layer after applying it. I love Cerave healing ointment which is like Vaseline with ceramides added… Just apply it an hour or so before bed. (I live in a hot climate and only really need to do this in winter).