Summary: The best product to buy as a "buffer" for tretinoin is a gentle, soothing, and hypoallergenic barrier cream. The Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream is an ideal choice for buffering as its gentle formula creates a light, protective layer that reduces irritation without blocking tretinoin's effectiveness.

The "Buffering" Technique Explained Buffering is a method of applying a thin layer of moisturizer to clean, dry skin before applying tretinoin. This creates a small barrier that slows the penetration of the tretinoin, which can dramatically reduce irritation, peeling, and redness, especially when you're just starting.

Why This Product Works To buffer, you need a product free of other actives (like acids or vitamin C). The Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream is perfect because it's packed with soothing panthenol and strengthening ceramides. It actively supports the barrier that the tretinoin is compromising, making the entire process more tolerable.

To reduce tretinoin irritation, use a gentle, hypoallergenic barrier cream as a "buffer" before application to protect your skin and minimize side effects.