Accutane is one of the top treatments for acne sufferers who aren’t seeing results with other solutions. Since it was approved by the FDA back in 1982, it has continued to be the most clinically effective option for treating acne.
As effective as accutane may be, it also comes with some pretty serious side effects. It famously causes skin dryness, which may result in flaking and chapped lips. The skin typically becomes much more irritable, with redness, itchiness, and peeling being common side effects. With all of this in mind, using the right moisturizing products is absolutely essential to ensure your skin is as comfortable as it can be as you go through this intense treatment.
In order to help Accutane users have the best possible experience, we’ve compiled a list of the best moisturizers to use while on this treatment. Below, you’ll find not only moisturizers for your face, but also products to tackle dryness from head to toe.
How I Reviewed Each Moisturizer
Each product that I’ve recommended below has either been personally tested by me or another member of the GoodGlow team. I’ve also referenced consumer reviews to see how people feel about the products in general, and how they specifically work for those currently on an Accutane treatment.
Of course, the most important factor to consider when looking for a suitable moisturizer to use while on Accutane is how effective it is at improving skin hydration levels. I specifically looked for formulas that contain high-performance moisturizing ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, squalane, glycerin, and shea butter.
The moisturizers I selected are also all super gentle on the skin. Accutane users need to steer clear of products containing active ingredients that may dry out or irritate the skin, such as chemical exfoliants, benzoyl peroxide, and retinoids. All of the products below are free of these types of ingredients. Since fragrances can cause irritation, I also opted for formulas free of artificial fragrances.
Additionally, I sought out products that contain ingredients that soothe irritation for a more comfortable complexion. I looked for formulas containing ingredients like aloe, oat, and panthenol.
The Best Moisturizers for Accutane
| Best | Moisturizer for Accutane |
|---|---|
| Overall Jump to Review | Clearstem Skincare HYDRAGLOW Stem Cell Moisturizer (CLEARSTEM) |
| On a Budget Jump to Review | CeraVe Moisturizing Cream (Amazon) |
| For Oily Skin Jump to Review | Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel Moisturizer (Amazon) |
| For Sensitive Skin Jump to Review | La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra Moisturizing Cream (Amazon) |
| For Dry Skin Jump to Review | EltaMD Barrier Renewal Complex (Amazon) |
| Lip Moisturizer Jump to Review | Aquaphor Lip Repair Ointment (Amazon) |
| Moisturizer with SPF Jump to Review | EltaMD UV Elements Broad-Spectrum SPF 44 (Amazon) |
| Body Moisturizer Jump to Review | Aveeno Skin Relief Intense Moisture Repair Cream (Amazon) |
Best Overall Moisturizer for Accutane:
CLEARSTEM – HYDRAGLOW Stem Cell Moisturizer
Clearstem’s moisturizer is packed with deeply moisturizing ingredients that fight skin dryness, as well as effective yet gentle anti-agers. The skin is left feeling and looking soft, comfortable, and more youthful.
GoodGlow Score
Expertly Crafted
With Bakuchiol (a natural alternative to retinol), plant stem cells, and olive squalane.
Effective Plant Stem Cells
Bakuchiol in your moisturizer is your secret weapon for collagen production as it trains your skin to look younger while you sleep.
Clean Ingredients
No hormone disruptors, no toxins, cruelty free, gluten free, vegan, and silicon free
Non-comedogenic
Zero pore-cloggers and zero toxins
- Bakuchiol – Bakuchiol is a vegan skincare ingredient found in the leaves and seeds of the Psoralea corylifolia plant. It acts as a natural alternative to retinol. It has the same powerful anti-aging effects as retinol without the toxicity and skin dryness that typically comes along with retinol use.
- Squalane – Squalane is a derivative of squalene, which is a natural lipid found in many plants and animals. Squalane is much lighter, making it a much better option for acne-prone skin. It’s extremely hydrating and it also acts as a natural antioxidant for the skin, which is key for anti-aging.
- Stem cells – Stem cells are made of amino acids and peptides, which are powerhouse ingredients for skin rejuvenation. Stem cells work to repair the skin on a cellular level, which promotes cell turnover, diminishes fine lines & wrinkles, and improves skin texture & tone.
Water/Aqua, Squalane, Propanediol, Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Seed Oil, Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate, Glycerin, Cetyl Alcohol, Raphanus Sativux (Radish) Seed Extract, Bakuchiol, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Extract, Hyaluronic Acid, Jojoba Esters, Boswellia Carteri (Frankincense) oil, Camellia Sinensis (Green Leaf) Extract, Amino Acids: (Lysine, Histidine, Arginine, Aspartic Acid, Threonine, Serine, Glutamic Acid, Proline, Glycine, Alanine, Valine, Isoleucine, Leucine, Tyrosine), Phenylalanine, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Sprout Stem Cell Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Blueberry Essential Oil, Lactobacillus Ferment, Diglucosyl Gallic Acid, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Lactic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin
The Clearstem Skincare HYDRAGLOW Stem Cell Moisturizer is my top pick for those using Accutane, since it’s loaded with a blend of highly effective ingredients that improve the look and feel of the skin while deeply moisturizing. While it has a creamier texture, it is still super lightweight, and absorbs quickly into the skin. It’s suitable for all skin types, and even made without pore-clogging ingredients – which means it’s safe for acneic skin.
The formula is powered in part by squalane, which is derived from olives. Squalane boosts skin hydration and provides antioxidant benefits. Hyaluronic acid attracts moisture to the skin and locks it in, while ingredients like aloe leaf extract, pomegranate seed oil, hemp seed oil, and propanediol soothe irritation and redness and provide additional moisture.
What I also love about this moisturizer is the addition of gentle anti-aging ingredients. This Clearstem moisturizer is formulated with bakuchiol, which is considered to be a natural alternative to retinol. Bakuchiol boosts collagen production and fights signs of aging, but does not cause dryness or irritation like traditional retinol. As the name suggests, the formula also features stem cells, which improve skin tone and texture and soften the appearance of lines.
Clearstem Skincare HYDRAGLOW Stem Cell Moisturizer Pros:
- Targeted ingredients promote a supple and more youthful appearance.
- Formula is vegan, cruelty-free, and gluten-free.
- Gentle formula works for all skin types, including acne-prone skin.
Clearstem Skincare HYDRAGLOW Stem Cell Moisturizer Cons:
- On the pricier side.
Best On a Budget:
CeraVe – Moisturizing Cream
CeraVe’s Moisturizing Cream is the perfect match for anyone looking for a simple yet effective moisturizer that can be used on both the face and body. The gentle formula targets dryness while supporting the skin’s barrier.
GoodGlow Score
Formulated with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II)
Ceramides are found naturally in the skin and make up 50% of the lipids in the skin barrier
24 Hour Hydration
Formulated with hyaluronic acid, ceramides and MVE technology that leaves skin feeling smooth, it is absorbed quickly for softened skin without greasy, sticky, feel
Skin Type
Suitable for normal to dry skin, as well as sensitive and acneic skin
Ingredient Callout
Fragrance free, paraben free, allergy-tested, and non-comedogenic
Purified Water, Glycerin, Cetareth-20 and Cetearyl Alcohol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Petrolatum, Dimethicone, Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramide 1, Ceramide 3, Ceramide 6-II, Cholesterol, Phytosphingosine, Potassium Phosphate, Dipotassium Phosphate, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum.
The CeraVe Moisturizing Cream has long been a top recommendation for people on Accutane. It’s simple, budget-friendly, easy to find, and contains excellent ingredients that support dry, irritated skin. The formula is also super gentle, and made without fragrances or comedogenic ingredients. It has even been accepted by the National Eczema Association, so you can be confident that it is safe for sensitized skin.
This cream has held a prominent place in my medicine cabinet for years. It strikes that perfect balance of providing ample hydration without leaving behind a greasy finish on the skin. It’s also an excellent multi-tasking product to have on hand, since it can be used on both the face and the body.
This cream contains 3 essential ceramides, which support the skin’s barrier while helping improve moisture levels. Hyaluronic acid and glycerin also work to attract and seal in moisture.
Compared to the Clearstem moisturizer, this option from CeraVe is fairly simple, since it doesn’t contain any additional ingredients that directly fight signs of aging or improve skin tone. That said, it’s an excellent option for anyone looking to give their skin the basic support it needs while using Accutane.
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream Pros:
- Gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin.
- Made without fragrances or comedogenic ingredients.
- Rich texture that deeply moisturizes but isn’t greasy.
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream Cons:
- Tub packaging isn’t the most hygienic option.
Best For Oily Skin:
Aveeno – Calm + Restore Oat Gel Moisturizer
This Aveeno moisturizer is expertly formulated with a blend of ingredients that soothe the skin for a more comfortable complexion. The sensitive skin-friendly moisturizer has a lightweight gel texture that quickly absorbs into the skin.
GoodGlow Score
Formulated with Prebiotic oat
Helps soothe dryness and nourishes skin’s natural moisture barrier while feverfew calms
Hydrate, soothe and replenish
For sensitive and irritated, dry skin to instantly hydrate, soothe and replenish skin’s moisture barrier while leaving it resilient
Skin Types
Suitable for all skin types (especially sensitive skin).
Ingredient Call Out
Fragrance-free, paraben-free, alcohol-free, dye-free, phthalate-free, tested on sensitive skin and it’s non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores
Water, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Cetearyl Olivate, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour, Sorbitan Olivate, Polyacrylamide, Synthetic Beeswax, Phenoxyethanol, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Butylene Glycol, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Panthenol, Chlorphenesin, Dimethiconol, Carbomer, Laureth-7, Chrysanthemum Parthenium (Feverfew) Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract.
Accutane causes skin dryness, since it reduces the size and inhibits the function of the sebaceous glands. That said, people with oily skin may find that their skin still produces excess sebum to some degree, particularly during the early stages of treatment. For those people, the Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel Moisturizer is an excellent option, since it’s lightweight yet deeply moisturizing, and formulated specifically for sensitized skin.
The key ingredients in this Aveeno moisturizer are oat flour and oat extract, which moisturize and calm irritation. Panthenol, glycerin, and feverfew support the oat in further calming the skin while improving moisture levels.
Keep in mind that your skin will likely change as you go through your Accutane course. If your skin becomes drier, you may find that you need to swap this moisturizer for one with a thicker consistency (like the CeraVe or Clearstem options mentioned above).
Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel Moisturizer Pros:
- Calms the skin using the power of oat-derived ingredients.
- Made without fragrances, dyes, parabens, or drying alcohol.
- Hypoallergenic and tested on sensitive skin.
Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel Moisturizer Cons:
- Tub packaging isn’t the most hygienic option.
Best for Sensitive Skin:
La Roche-Posay – Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer
If you have ultra-sensitive, allergy-prone skin, this cream moisturizer was made for you. Formulated without common irritants, this gentle moisturizer calms and comforts the skin while improving moisture levels.
GoodGlow Score
Retains moisture and sooths
Formulated with a high concentration of Prebiotic Thermal Water, Ceramide-3, Niacinamide & Glycerin to lock in moisture while strengthening the skin’s barrier
Part of routine
Apply moisturizer to the face and neck morning and evening. Its soft, oil-free texture is easily absorbed.
Ingredient Callout
Non-comedogenic, and made without oil, fragrances, or parabens.
Skin Type
Suitable for normal to oily skin, including sensitive skin types.
Water (La Roche-Posay Prebiotic Thermal Water), Glycerin, Dimethicone, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Niacinamide, Ammonium, Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Myristyl Myristate, Stearic Acid, Ceramide Np, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Isobutane, Glyceryl Stearate Se, Sodium Hydroxide, Myristic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Capryloyl Glycine, Caprylyl Glycol, Xanthan Gum, T-Butyl Alcohol, Acrylonitrile, Methyl Methacrylate, Vinylidene Chloride Copolymer, Tocopherol.
The La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra Moisturizing Cream is one of the absolute best moisturizers for sensitive skin, so it’s ideal for people taking Accutane. It’s formulated for even the most sensitive and allergy-prone skin, and is also free of comedogenic ingredients. The lightweight cream formula doesn’t contain any drying alcohols, fragrances, or parabens.
This moisturizing cream is a favorite of many people with irritable skin that is prone to breakouts. As one Reddit user puts it, “This is the first moisturizer I’ve found that makes my skin smooth, soft, and supple…without any breakouts. It actually feels incredibly lightweight and like you don’t even have anything on.”
This gentle cream moisturizer contains fatty acid-rich and anti-inflammatory shea butter, which comforts and quells irritation while bringing moisture back into the skin. Neurosensine and thermal spring water further soothe the skin, which glycerin and squalane moisturize. With regular use, the complexion is left feeling soft, hydrated, and calm.
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra Moisturizing Cream Pros:
- Made to be gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin.
- Free of fragrances, parabens, or drying alcohols.
- Has packaging that prevents bacteria and debris from contaminating the formula.
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra Moisturizing Cream Cons:
- Not cruelty-free.
Best for Dry Skin:
EltaMD – Barrier Renewal Complex
EltaMD’s moisturizer dramatically improves dry, sensitive skin by strengthening the barrier. It also contains a blend of ingredients that promote a more youthful complexion.
GoodGlow Score
Strengthen the barrier
A selected blend of ceramides and other essential lipids helps restore its natural hydration system
Advanced formula
Works to visibly minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while significantly improving skin texture, tone and pore size
Ingredient Callout
Fragrance-free, paraben-free, sensitivity-free and noncomedogenic
Skin Type
Suitable for normal to dry skin, including sensitive skin.
Purified Water, Ethylhexyl Isononanoate, Niacinamide, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Dimethicone, Ceramide NP, Cholesterol, Ceramide EOS, Cetyl Alcohol, Ceramide NS, Ceteareth-25, Ceramide EOP, Caprooyl Sphingosine, Caprooyl Phytosphingosine, Ceramide AP, Hyaluronic Acid, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/ Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Xylitylglucoside, Squalane, Anhydroxylitol, PEG-7 Trimethylolpropane Coconut Ether, Polyisobutene, Piptadenia Colubrina Peel Extract, Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi) Fruit Extract , Bromelain, Tocopherol, Xylitol, Ficin, Glutamine, Biotin, Proline, Behenic Acid, Carbomer, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Butylene Glycol, Benzyl Alcohol, Potassium Sorbate, Phenoxyethanol, Hexadecanol, Sodium Bisulfite, Disodium EDTA.
The EltaMD Barrier Renewal Complex is one of my favorite moisturizers, especially for when my skin is feeling irritable. It has a gentle yet effective formula that is ideal for dry skin sensitized by Accutane.
This creamy moisturizer provides instant relief to the skin, and is also formulated to promote a younger-looking and healthier complexion. It’s non-comedogenic, and free of ingredients that may irritate the skin, including fragrances and parabens.
The formula is powered by five types of ceramides, which defend and repair the skin’s barrier while improving moisture levels. Squalane protects against loss of moisture, while biotin improves skin flexibility and texture. A variety of enzymes help calm compromised skin while also protecting the complexion against free radicals that can contribute to signs of aging.
EltaMD Barrier Renewal Complex Pros:
- Gentle formula provides relief against dryness, redness, and irritation.
- Non-comedogenic, and made without fragrances or parabens.
EltaMD Barrier Renewal Complex Cons:
- On the pricier side.
Best Lip Moisturizer for Accutane:
Aquaphor – Lip Repair Ointment
This drugstore favorite is excellent for keeping lips moisturized and comfortable. The fragrance-free ointment is infused with ingredients that soothe, soften, and seal in moisture.
GoodGlow Score
Relieves and Soothes
Castor seed oil, shea butter, panthenol, and glycerin soothe the lips and moisturize
Suitable for all skin types
Immediately relieves dryness and soothes chapped, cracked lips. It provides effective, long-lasting moisture so lips look and feel healthier.
Ingredient Callout
Made without fragrances or parabens
Vitamins C and E
To protect and nourish the lips
Petrolatum. Avobenzone, Octinoxate, Octisalate, Octocrylene, Oxybenzone, C18-38 Alkyl Hydroxystearoyl Stearate, Octyldodecanol, Glycerin, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Panthenol, Water, Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Tocopheryl Acetate, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Beeswax, C20-40 Alkyl Stearate, Magnesium Sulfate, Magnesium Stearate, Bht.
Of course, we can’t forget about the lips. The Aquaphor Lip Repair Ointment may not be the flashiest product, but it’s one of the best for combatting chapped lips during and after taking Accutane.
This ointment features deeply moisturizing castor seed oil, which also has anti-inflammatory properties. Shea butter, panthenol, and glycerin work to calm and moisturize, while vitamins C and E protect and nourish the lips. Chamomile essence provides additional soothing benefits, helping to quell any irritation.
Since you’ll want to be reapplying a lip product throughout the day, the small and portable packaging is also excellent to have on-the-go.
Aquaphor Lip Repair Ointment Pros:
- Super affordable.
- Free of fragrances and parabens.
Aquaphor Lip Repair Ointment Cons:
- Not vegan-friendly (contains beeswax).
Best Moisturizer with SPF:
EltaMD – UV Elements SPF 44 Tinted Moisturizer for Face with SPF
This EltaMD sunscreen is super gentle on the skin, but highly effective when it comes to blocking UV rays. The mineral sunscreen is formulated with moisturizing ingredients that leave the skin feeling soft and comfortable.
GoodGlow Score
Skin Type
Ideal for sunsensitive skin
Protection From Sun
Zinc oxide facial coverage protects against UVA and UVB rays from the sun.
Skin Type
Ideal for anyone with sensitive skin
Ingredient Callouts
Oil, paraben and fragrance free
Purified Water Cyclopentasiloxane Dimethicone Octyldodecyl Neopentanoate Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl DimethiconeDimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer Sodium Hyaluronate Ascorbyl Palmitate Tocopherol Sodium Chloride Triethoxycaprylylsilane Alumina Methicone Potassium Sorbate Phenoxyethanol Citric Acid Iron Oxides
While wearing sunscreen is always important, it’s especially crucial when taking Accutane, since the medication increases the skin’s sun sensitivity. The challenge is finding a formula that is gentle enough to use on sensitized skin. The EltaMD UV Elements Broad-Spectrum SPF 44 is a great option, because it contains 100% mineral sunscreen filters. Mineral sunscreens are typically better suited for sensitive skin than chemical options, because they are less likely to cause irritation.
I find that this sunscreen (which I wear daily) works better than other mineral formulas, since it has a slight tint. This means it doesn’t leave the white cast that is often associated with mineral sunscreens.
In addition to the fact that it doesn’t leave a white cast, I love that it contains ingredients that support overall skin health. This moisturizing formula features hyaluronic acid, which attracts moisture to the skin and locks it in. It also contains vitamins C and E, which protect against free radicals and nourish the skin.
EltaMD UV Elements Broad-Spectrum SPF 44 Pros:
- Gentle and moisturizing formula free of irritating sunscreen filters.
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, oil-free, and non-comedogenic.
EltaMD UV Elements Broad-Spectrum SPF 44 Cons:
- On the pricier side.
Best Body Moisturizer:
Aveeno – Aveeno Skin Relief Intense Moisture Repair Cream
This body moisturizer gives parched skin the intense moisture that it needs without causing any irritation. The fragrance-free formula is also safe for sensitive skin.
GoodGlow Score
Intensive moisture to relieve
Body lotion gentle enough for sensitive skin starts to work immediately to nourish and restore essential moisture
Oat-derived ingredients
Calms irritation and itchiness while improving moisture levels
Contains ceramides and glycerin
To further moisturize and support the barrier
Skin Type
Suitable for dry and sensitive skin
Water, Glycerin, Distearyldimonium Chloride, Petrolatum, Isopropyl Palmitate, Cetyl Alcohol, Dimethicone, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Oil, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Ceramide NP, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Benzyl Alcohol, Methylparaben, Steareth20, Sodium Chloride.
The skin typically dries out from head to toe when on Accutane, so it’s important to find a highly effective body moisturizer that ensures the skin stays moisturized and comfortable. The Aveeno Skin Relief Intense Moisture Repair Cream is made for super dry skin, and helps provide relief and deep hydration for 24 hours.
I’ve found that, while this moisturizer has a rich cream texture, it absorbs quickly into the skin. It’s highly moisturizing but doesn’t make the skin feel greasy or sticky.
The formula features a blend of oat-derived ingredients, which soothe and restore moisture levels for maximum comfort. Ceramide strengthens and supports the skin’s barrier, while glycerin works to seal moisture into parched skin.
Aveeno Skin Relief Intense Moisture Repair Cream Pros:
- Loaded with gentle ingredients that soothe and moisturize all day long.
- Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic.
Aveeno Skin Relief Intense Moisture Repair Cream Cons:
- Tub packaging isn’t the most hygienic option.
Frequently Asked Questions
First, make sure you are using a thick moisturizer that will lock in hydration. Moisturizers containing ceramides are usually best. Another tip is to avoid harsh topical treatments that are not recommended by your doctor. Salicylic acid often irritates the skin and can even make acne worse.
If you are on Accutane you should be applying moisturizer three times a day, or whenever your skin is feeling dry. You should also be drinking plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated.
