Sealing Retinol in Summer: How to Apply It and A Guide to Moisturizers that Pair Well with Retinol

When it comes to using retinol during the summer, there are a few key points to keep in mind:

Apply Retinol on Dry Skin

Retinol should be applied only on dry skin. This doesn’t exclude the use of toner or cream beforehand, but it’s crucial to wait until the product is fully absorbed. Apply retinol after 15-20 minutes, ensuring your skin is dry.

Sealing Retinol

It’s optional to seal retinol with another product, depending on your skin and the retinol product itself. Trust your skin’s feedback, but generally, sealing is beneficial.

Always Use Sunscreen

Retinol should be used hand-in-hand with sunscreen, especially during the summer. Even if the concentration of retinol is low, always apply and reapply SPF. If this seems too burdensome, it’s best to reserve retinol for the fall.

The Sandwich Method

If many active ingredients irritate your skin, try the gentle “sandwich method”: first, apply a moisturizing cream, then the retinol serum, and seal again with the moisturizing cream.

How to Combine and Avoid Combinations with Retinol

Avoid high concentrations of other actives. If you want to keep it simple, avoid using other high-concentration active ingredients alongside retinol. For example, don’t follow up a retinol serum with a high-percentage Vitamin C cream. Some products do combine multiple actives, but their concentrations are carefully balanced.

Recommended Basic Moisturizers Compatible with Retinol

All the creams listed below are not only compatible with retinol but also other active ingredients. They make a great base for daily use, especially with their lighter, summer-friendly textures that absorb quickly compared to fall and winter formulations.

• CeraVe Moisturizing Cream: A reliable, non-irritating option with ceramides and hyaluronic acid.
• Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel: Light, hydrating, and great for sealing in retinol.
• La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer: Balances and repairs skin without clogging pores.
• Eucerin Advanced Repair Cream: Provides deep hydration and works well with various actives.
• Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer: Contains soy complex and is gentle on the skin.
• Vanicream Moisturizing Cream: Free of irritants, ideal for sensitive skin.
• The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA: Affordable and effective with amino acids and hyaluronic acid.

What about you? Do you seal your retinol or skip this step? Share your routine!