What is a Retinoid Sandwich?
Want to know one of my number one skincare tips as an aesthetic doctor?
It has to be the retinoid sandwich.
Whenever I discuss this with patients I’m always shocked that they’ve never heard of it before - even if they’ve been skincare aficionados for years!
So what is the retinoid sandwich?
Let’s find out.
What is the Retinoid Sandwich?
Simply put, a retinoid sandwich is a delicious layer of moisturiser, retinoid, and then moisturier.
Why do you use it?
It’s perfect for areas of increased dryness or skin irritation. This is a great tip for a new retinoid user, or someone who has been using retinoids for a long time with small areas of skin irritation.
But I heard that it doesn’t really work?
The criticism of the retinoid sandwich is that the first layer of moisturiser acts as a barrier, diminishing the efficacy of the retinoid product. However, many studies support the use of moisturising products with retinoids to increase tolerability without stopping efficacy. Beyond the hydrating effect of the moisturiser. The underlying concept is similar to stepping back with your retinoid and using it every other night rather than daily.
So if you’re struggling with using your retinoid daily, use the sandwich technique!
TikTok would like you to smear rendered beef fat on your face — for glowing, "ancestral," chemical-free skin. As ever, the truth is more boring and more useful than either the evangelists or the eye-rollers will tell you. So let me render it down: what tallow genuinely does, what it absolutely doesn't, and whether you should slather it on.