Tretinoin
RetinoidA prescription-strength retinoid that speeds cell turnover to smooth texture, soften lines, and clear pores.
Good for
Anti-aging
Texture
Acne
How to use
Introduce slowly — a few nights a week, buffered with moisturizer, always followed by SPF the next day. Some dryness at first is normal.
Pairings
Pairs well with
Niacinamide
Buffers retinoid irritation
Hyaluronic Acid
Counters retinoid dryness
Ceramides
Barrier protection
Azelaic Acid
Complementary for acne + pigment
Centella
Soothes retinoid irritation
Peptides
Repair + renewal
Time it right
AHA
Additive irritation
Use on separate days
BHA
Additive irritation
Use on separate days
L-Ascorbic Acid
Better split by time
Use on separate days
Kojic Acid
Possible sensitization
Use on separate days
Copper Peptides
Space them out
Leave a gap between them
Keep apart
Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide degrades retinoids