05/05/2026
Things I would never do while using tretinoin!
Applying it to damp skin - this can increase pe*******on and lead to irritation, peeling, and a damaged skin barrier. Tretinoin is powerful enough on dry skin; you don’t need to “boost” it like this.
Using it alongside other strong actives like glycolic or salicylic acid — layering exfoliants with tretinoin is a fast track to redness, sensitivity, and breakouts from barrier disruption. More isn’t better here…
Skipping an ointment-based moisturiser — tretinoin can make the skin drier temporarily as it speeds skin cell turnover. If you’re not sealing in hydration with an ointment based moisturiser like the dr storm night moisturiser you’re making the whole process harder and more uncomfortable than it needs to be.
Getting aggressive facials (especially active or extraction-heavy ones) - your skin is already in a stimulated, more sensitive state. Adding extra trauma can push it into full irritation mode.
Using physical exfoliating scrubs — these create micro-tears and, combined with tretinoin, can wreck your barrier fast. Smooth skin doesn’t come from scrubbing harder.
Over-exfoliating in any form — even “gentle” exfoliants add up. Tretinoin is already accelerating cell turnover… you don’t need to pile on.
Waxing or aggressive hair removal on treated areas in the first 3 months of use - this can literally lift the skin and leave you with damage or pigmentation issues.
Trying too many new products at once - less is more with tretinoin
Tretinoin is a game changer - for acne, texture, pigmentation, fine lines - but only if you respect it. The best results come from consistency, patience, and protecting your skin barrier, not overloading it.
Use it right, and it will transform your skin. Use it wrong, and you can end up irritated! At Dr Storm skincare we are always here to guide you along the process. We love to talk to our patients!
