All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors.
However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through links in this article.
Its just enough to get that smooth, glowy payoff without putting my skin into a meltdown.
Angela Trakoshis
No overachieving, no stressjuststrategy.
Let me break down the schedule that finally made tretinoin work for me, not against me.
Whats my skin like?
My skin 6 weeks before starting my tretinoin routine.
A better question would be, what is my skinnotlike?
My skin 6 weeks before starting my tretinoin routine.
My skin 6 weeks after starting my tretinoin routine.
What even is tretinoin?
To keep it simple, tretinoin is a prescription retinoid.
Tretinoin is the gold standard for improving skin texture and fine lines, says board-certified dermatologistAzadeh Shirazi, MD.
Thats why its often prescribed not just for fine lines but also for acne.
Youve probably also heard of retinol, and maybe youre wondering how its different.
Youre probably thinking of the word prescription and the way healthcare (unfortunately) works in our country.
Between costs and bandwidth at dermatology offices, it could be nearly impossible to obtain.
The higher the percentage, the faster it might work, but also the more irritating it can be.
I use 0.05%, and Ive stuck with that since I started using it in early 2024.
Whats that, you ask?
), and a thickmoisturizer.
Its step one of my double cleanse.
After this is when I apply my tretinoin.
The goal of this routine: Use tretinoin effectively while minimizing irritation and dryness.
Adding these layers of hydrating and soothing products before and after the tretinoin helps buffer and support my skin.
Again, this second cleanser ensures my skin is fully clean while being mild and non-drying.
Plus, the strawberry lemonade scent issogood.
After ths, I use the same Aestura Atobarrier 365 Cream as above.
Let me be cleareveryone’s skin is different, and what works for me may not work for you.
Then, just wait for your prescription-strengthretinoidto be delivered straight to your door.
Once you’ve discovered your tretinoin skin-care routine, you’ll never look back.