Retinol + Vitamin E

Can you use Retinol with Vitamin E?

Yes

Yes. Vitamin E is a good partner for Retinol.

Why

Vitamin E is gentle and can help offset the dryness and irritation retinoids cause. There is no known conflict.

How to use them together

  1. Apply Retinol at night on clean, dry skin.
  2. Use Vitamin E before or after it (thinnest texture first), or as your moisturizer step.
  3. Sunscreen every morning.

Who should be careful

Retinoids are not recommended during pregnancy without medical advice. People with very sensitive skin, rosacea or eczema should patch test new products first.

About the ingredients

Retinol: An over-the-counter vitamin A derivative (retinoid) used for fine lines, texture and uneven tone. It converts to retinoic acid in the skin, so it is milder and slower than prescription tretinoin.

Vitamin E: A fat-soluble antioxidant (tocopherol) common in moisturizers and antioxidant serums. It can rarely cause contact allergy.

FAQ

Can I use Retinol and Vitamin E together?

Yes. Vitamin E is a good partner for Retinol.

Should I use Retinol or Vitamin E in the morning or at night?

Apply Retinol at night on clean, dry skin. Use Vitamin E before or after it (thinnest texture first), or as your moisturizer step.

Who should be careful combining Retinol and Vitamin E?

Retinoids are not recommended during pregnancy without medical advice. People with very sensitive skin, rosacea or eczema should patch test new products first.

Do I need sunscreen with Retinol and Vitamin E?

Yes. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is recommended with any active skincare routine.

Sources

Studies and reviews on these ingredients and, where available, on this specific combination.

  1. Kafi R, et al. Improvement of naturally aged skin with vitamin A (retinol). Arch Dermatol. 2007;143(5):606-612.
  2. Keen MA, Hassan I. Vitamin E in dermatology. Indian Dermatol Online J. 2016;7(4):311-315.

Last reviewed: . Not medical advice.

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