Anti-Aging Basics: Should You Use Retinol Before or After Moisturizer?

When it comes to the skincare questions we get asked most, retinol queries are usually at the top of the list—especially when, how, and why to use retinol in your skincare routine. It makes sense when you think about it: This popular ingredient is a favorite among skincare enthusiasts and it’s backed by numerous scientific studies and reviews. At the same time, there’s also an overwhelming amount of information out there on retinol products, from their potential side effects to the complexion-boosting benefits they can (and can’t) provide.

To help you better understand how to correctly use retinol in your skincare routine, we’ve compiled some of the key myths and facts you should know, ahead. Read on for the lowdown on using retinol serums, moisturizers, and eye creams for smoother, more youthful-looking skin. Plus, we’ll also be sharing some impressive before and after retinol images that showcase why consistency is key if you want to reap the full benefits of this popular ingredient.

What Is Retinol?

Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A that’s often sold in the form of a topical cream or serum that’s used to target a variety of different skin concerns. You can use retinol for forehead lines, eye wrinkles, uneven skin tone, dark spots, and rough skin texture, just to name a few.

Retinol works by promoting skin cell turnover, which can help refine the skin’s surface and minimize the look of fine lines, wrinkles, and skin discolorations. In a study by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), topical formulations containing retinoids (a term used to describe vitamin A-based skincare products) showed improved epidermal thickness, improvement of the epidermal barrier, and reduced transepidermal water loss (TEWL).

However, in order to enjoy these benefits, it’s important to choose a gentle yet effective retinol product that is dermatologist-tested and non-comedogenic (meaning it won’t clog your pores), like the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Night Serum, 0.3% Pure Retinol. This anti-aging serum with retinol, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin is suitable for all skin types and can help your skin appear smoother, more luminous, and refined.

When Should I Start Using Retinol?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, retinol can address a wide range of skin issues, including acne blemishes, post-blemish marks, skin discoloration, fine lines, and wrinkles. The ideal time to start using retinol can vary from person to person—it all depends on your skin concerns and skincare goals.

For example, the Cleveland Clinic recommends using retinol to help address breakouts and post-blemish marks, which can be common in teens and young adults. When it comes to using retinol for anti-aging, it may be ideal to take a proactive approach—we recommend starting a retinol routine before visible signs of aging become prominent (like wrinkles, fine lines, laxity, and dullness). However, you can start using retinol anytime, even after these signs of aging show up.

When in doubt, speak with your doctor or dermatologist about the best time to start using retinol for your skin’s needs.

How Often Should I Use Retinol?

Retinol is a powerhouse ingredient, but it also has the potential to irritate your skin, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Because of this, retinol should be introduced into your routine gradually, building up to daily application over time as your skin adjusts. Many people start by using retinol products once a week, then bump up the usage every few weeks, based on how their skin reacts.

While you may be eager to compare those retinol cream before and after pictures, it’s important to remember that results take time. With consistent retinol use, you may expect to see results after approximately three months, but results can vary. It’s important to resist the temptation to apply more retinol than is instructed on the label. Not only will this not give you faster results, but it may do more harm than good—resulting in red, flaky, and irritated skin.

Is Retinol Good for Your Skin?

When used correctly, topical retinol can have numerous benefits for your complexion. As mentioned above, this ingredient helps support your skin’s natural exfoliation process, which can result in a visible reduction of fine lines, wrinkles, and dullness.

This ingredient can do a lot of good for your complexion. However, if it’s causing irritation then you may need to decrease usage or potency. In these cases, we recommend speaking with a board-certified dermatologist for advice on whether or not retinol is right for you.

Step-by-Step Anti-Aging Skincare Routine

Ready to reap the benefits of retinol? Ahead, we’re sharing a simple, step-by-step skincare routine to help you achieve smoother, firmer, more youthful-looking skin.

Daytime routine

Step 1: Cleanse your face

Begin your morning routine by washing your face with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser to remove excess oil and other impurities. If you have especially dry or sensitive skin, you can skip the cleanser—instead, rinse your face with lukewarm water to remove surface debris and prep your skin for hydration.

Step 2: Apply a gentle anti-aging serum

A common question retinol first-timers ask is: “Can you use retinol in the morning?” Most experts agree that while you technically can, it’s best to save retinol for your nighttime routine, since it can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun. Instead, in the morning, use a gentle anti-aging serum, such as the L’Oréal Paris RevitaLift Triple Power Tri-Peptides Age-Defying Serum. The multitasking formula contains a triple peptide complex alongside vitamin C and hyaluronic acid and helps hydrate the skin while improving tone, texture, and radiance.

Step 3. Finish with an SPF moisturizer

Moisturizer and sunscreen are non-negotiables, regardless of your skin type (or the time of year). If you prefer a streamlined morning routine, though, you can combine both steps into one with an SPF moisturizer, such as the L’Oréal Paris RevitaLift Triple Power Moisturizer with SPF 30. It delivers up to 48 hours of hydration with a non-greasy feel and leaves the skin brighter, firmer, and smoother with consistent use. Just remember to reapply your sun protection every two hours to keep your skin guarded against damaging UV rays.

Nighttime routine

Step 1: Cleanse your face

In the evening, wash your face with a cleanser to remove dirt, oil, makeup, and other impurities that may have accumulated throughout the day. Try the L’Oréal Paris RevitaLift Radiant Smoothing Cream Cleanser—it removes all traces of makeup and impurities, leaving your skin feeling nourished and comfortable. Allow your skin to dry fully before moving on to the next step.

Step 2: Apply a targeted retinol serum

Once your skin is dry, dispense two to three drops of the L’Oréal Paris RevitaLift Night Serum, 0.3% Pure Retinol into your palms, then spread the serum over your face (avoiding the areas directly around your eyes and mouth). The dermatologist-validated formula visibly reduces the look of fine lines, wrinkles, and unevenness while hydrating the skin, revealing a fresher, more youthful-looking complexion over time.

Editor’s note: With retinol, it’s best to start slow. If you’re a first-time retinol user, apply the serum two nights per week to start. As your skin acclimates, you can gradually work your way up to nightly usage. On non-retinol nights, use a gentle anti-aging serum or replenish your skin with one of our favorite hydrating serums.

Step 3: Finish with a gentle nighttime moisturizer

After giving your retinol serum a few moments to absorb, replenish hydration with a gentle nighttime moisturizer. The L’Oréal Paris RevitaLift Triple Power Moisturizer is a great option, as it provides up to 24 hours of hydration without a slick or greasy feel. If you want extra barrier support—which can be especially helpful for retinol beginners—try a richer night cream. We love the L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Skin Care Cell Renewal Midnight Cream, Fragrance-Free, which is designed specifically to support skin barrier repair.

Common Anti-Aging and Retinol Mistakes To Avoid

To get the best results from your retinol, proper application is key. While this powerhouse ingredient helps improve the look of fine lines and uneven texture, using it incorrectly can compromise your skin barrier and diminish those visible benefits. Here are a few common pitfalls to keep in mind:

• Applying to damp skin: Water can increase how quickly retinol absorbs, which may lead to redness and peeling. Always wait a few minutes after washing and drying your face before applying your retinol serum or cream.
• Over-applying product: Using more retinol than recommended won't speed up visible anti-aging results—it only increases the likelihood of sensitivity. Keep your application light and consistent.
• Mixing actives incorrectly: Avoid pairing retinol in the same routine with exfoliating acids (like AHAs and BHAs) or benzoyl peroxide. If you use exfoliants, save them for alternate nights to help maintain a balanced skin barrier.
• Skipping morning SPF: Retinol can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun. To protect your skin, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every morning (and we mean every morning).

Next Up: Retinol Serum Benefits: Why This Expert Ingredient Is Essential for Radiant Skin

Photo courtesy of L’Oréal Paris