Retinol is a powerful ingredient known for its ability to boost skin texture, reduce fine lines, and promote a radiant complexion. However, its potency can sometimes leave the skin feeling dry, irritated, or sensitive. That’s where ceramides come in. These essential lipids help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier, providing much-needed hydration and soothing relief. With this in mind, we’ve rounded up five ceramide-rich creams and formulas that can calm and nourish your skin after using retinoids. These moisturisers work to replenish moisture, restore balance, and ensure your skin remains healthy and glowing without the harsh side effects.
Dermalogica Hyaluronic Ceramide Mist
Dermalogica Hyaluronic Ceramide Mist is a refreshing, soothing mist designed to hydrate and protect the skin, making it an excellent choice for post-retinol care. Infused with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, this lightweight formula helps restore the skin’s natural moisture barrier, providing immediate relief from dryness and irritation caused by retinol use. The combination of ceramides works to lock in hydration, while hyaluronic acid plumps and smooths the skin. Ideal for all skin types, it can be used throughout the day to maintain moisture levels and calm any sensitivity. Spritz it on after applying retinol to keep your skin balanced and nourished.
CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF30
CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF 30 is a nourishing, ceramide-rich formula that helps to soothe and protect the skin after retinol use. Enriched with essential ceramides, it strengthens the skin’s natural barrier while providing long-lasting hydration. The lightweight lotion absorbs quickly, offering a non-greasy finish that’s perfect for daily use. With the added benefit of broad-spectrum SPF 30, it protects the skin from harmful UV rays, which can be more damaging after retinol application. This moisturiser helps to calm any irritation, restore moisture, and ensure your skin remains soft, smooth, and well-protected throughout the day.
Murad Essential-C Firming Radiance Day Cream
Murad Essential-C Firming Radiance Day Cream is a luxurious moisturiser that combines ceramides with vitamin C to soothe and revitalise the skin after retinol use. This rich formula helps to restore the skin’s natural moisture barrier while providing antioxidant protection against environmental stressors. The ceramides lock in hydration, reducing dryness and irritation, while the vitamin C brightens and firms the skin, promoting a radiant complexion. Ideal for daily use, it helps to balance and nourish the skin, leaving it feeling soft, smooth, and rejuvenated. Perfect for anyone looking to counteract the drying effects of retinol while enhancing skin firmness and glow.
CeraVe Advanced Repair Ointment
CeraVe Advanced Repair Ointment is a deeply hydrating, ceramide-rich treatment designed to restore and protect the skin, making it an excellent choice for post-retinol care. Enriched with essential ceramides, this ointment helps to rebuild the skin’s natural moisture barrier, preventing dryness and irritation often caused by retinol. The thick, rich formula provides intense hydration, soothing sensitive skin and promoting long-lasting softness. It also contains niacinamide, which helps to calm and restore the skin’s natural balance. Ideal for rough or very dry skin, this ointment helps maintain a healthy, smooth complexion while protecting it from further moisture loss.
Murad Multi-Vitamin Clear Coat Broad Spectrum SPF 50
Murad Multi-Vitamin Clear Coat Broad Spectrum SPF 50 is a lightweight, ceramide-enriched sunscreen that provides essential protection and hydration after retinol use. Infused with a blend of vitamins and ceramides, it helps restore the skin’s moisture barrier while offering broad-spectrum protection from harmful UV rays. The formula is designed to soothe and hydrate sensitive skin, preventing dryness and irritation commonly associated with retinol. With SPF 50, it shields the skin from sun damage, which is especially important after retinol treatments. This clear, non-greasy finish makes it ideal for daily use, leaving skin feeling protected, nourished, and radiant.