Moisture Sandwich Method: How to Use Retinol for Sensitive Skin | INKEY

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Perfect for sensitive skin and retinol beginners.

Starting your retinol journey but worried about irritation? The moisture sandwich method is your answer. This gentle technique layers moisturiser around your retinol serum to minimise irritation while maximising benefits.

What is the Moisture Sandwich Method?

The moisture sandwich method is a skincare technique that "sandwiches" your retinol serum between two layers of moisturizer. This approach creates a protective buffer that allows retinol to work effectively while significantly reducing the risk of irritation, dryness, and sensitivity. Originally developed for those with sensitive skin or retinol beginners, this method has become a gold standard for gentle retinol introduction.

Why the Moisture Sandwich Method Works

The moisture sandwich method offers multiple benefits for retinol newcomers:

Gentle Introduction - Gradually introduces retinol to your skin, reducing the risk of redness and irritation.
Hydration Boost - Prevents the drying effects commonly associated with retinol use
Barrier Support - Maintains your skin's protective barrier while retinol works its magic
Reduced Irritation - Perfect for sensitive skin types who want retinol benefits without the sensitivity

How to Use: The 3-Step Moisture Sandwich

Step 1: After cleansing, apply a thin layer of Bio-Active Ceramide Moisturizer

Step 2: Apply a pea-sized amount of Starter Retinol

Step 3: Apply another thin layer of Bio-Active Ceramide Moisturizer

FAQs

How often should I use the moisture sandwich method?

Use the moisture sandwich method every time you use retinol in your PM routine. Start 2-3 times per week for the first month, then gradually increase to nightly use as tolerated.

Can I use other actives with this method?

Avoid using vitamin C or AHAs/BHAs on the same evening. Hyaluronic Acid pairs well with this routine.

When will I see results?

Results begin quickly and continue improving over time. The INKEY Starter Retinol is clinically proven to smooth fine lines from just 7 days without causing irritation*. In a comprehensive 12-week consumer study of 130 participants, over 80% saw revived, firmed, and more even skin in just 2 weeks, while an impressive 90% experienced significant clinical improvement in wrinkles in only 4 weeks. These results demonstrate that while you may notice initial improvements within the first week, the most dramatic transformations occur over the first month of consistent use.

*4-week Clinical study on 30 participants // *** 12-week consumer study of 130 participants

Is this method suitable for all skin types?

Yes, especially beneficial for sensitive, dry, or rosacea-prone skin types.

What if I still experience irritation?

Reduce frequency to once weekly and ensure you're using enough moisturiser in each layer.

Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars

4.7 Stars (1,516 Reviews)

Bio-Active Ceramide Moisturizer

Award-winning moisturizer featuring next-generation Bio-Active Ceramides that work across multiple skin layers for superior anti-ageing results. Clinically proven to deliver visible improvement in 6 signs of ageing, with 100% of users seeing enhanced skin firmness, smoothness, and barrier strength. This rich, velvety formula provides 24-hour hydration while reducing fine lines by up to 4X in just 28 days*. The advanced Bio-Active technology penetrates deeper than standard ceramides, making it ideal for those experiencing early signs of ageing or anyone seeking comprehensive skin barrier support. Enriched with skin-identical lipids, this moisturiser strengthens your skin's natural defences while delivering long-lasting comfort without heaviness.

Key Benefits:
Clinically proven improvement in 6 signs of ageing
Up to 4X reduction in visible fine lines in 28 days
24-hour hydration without heaviness or pilling
Strengthens skin barrier from first application

Key Ingredients:
• Bio-Active Ceramides – Next-gen technology that penetrates multiple skin layers for enhanced anti-ageing results
• Skin-Identical Lipids – Support natural barrier function and long-lasting hydration

Suitable For: All skin types, especially those with early signs of ageing, dry skin, or compromised barrier function

What our customers say: "This moisturiser is a game-changer! I've been using it for 6 weeks and my skin feels so much firmer and smoother. The texture is luxurious but not heavy, and it works perfectly under makeup. My fine lines around my eyes have definitely improved." - Sarah

Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars

4.8 Stars (58 Reviews)

Starter Retinol Serum

Perfect for beginners and those with sensitive skin, The INKEY List Starter Retinol is specially formulated to gently introduce your skin to this powerful anti-ageing ingredient. Clinically proven to smooth fine lines in just 7 days without irritation*, this advanced formula is 2x more effective than standard retinol** while remaining incredibly gentle. Enriched with hydrating and soothing ingredients, this serum works to improve skin texture and tone over time, making it the ideal choice for retinol newcomers. * 4-week Clinical study on 30 participants ** Based on a 4-week In Vitro study

Key Benefits:
Gentle formula perfect for beginners and sensitive skin
Clinically proven results in just 7 days
2x more effective than standard retinol**
Smooths fine lines without irritation

Key Ingredients:
• Advanced Retinol Complex – Delivers effective anti-ageing results with minimal irritation
• Hydrating Actives – Support skin barrier health during retinol introduction

Suitable For: All Skin Types, especially beginners and sensitive skin

What our customers say: "Great starter retinol serum, I've used since end of November twice per week. It works for my dry, sensitive skin. Did not irritate my face. Will continue to use it. So far my forehead looks more smooth than before." - Mel

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