Vitamin A derivatives (retinoids such as tretinoin)—topical medications prescribed for people with troubled skins—are particularly drying. Retinoids help to control acne by causing less oil (sebum) to be produced. Since oil helps to seal in moisture, the abrupt reduction in sebum can cause the skin to dry out and become sensitive and uncomfortable. The colder weather of fall and winter and indoor heating systems can increase the dryness and discomfort.

Retinoid creams and gels are also commonly prescribed to help reduce wrinkling of the skin, as they increase cellular turnover and collagen production. Women who use retinoids for this purpose are often disappointed to find their skin drying out and becoming sensitive and flaky.

The superficial layer of the skin is covered by an acidic mantle known as the hydrolipidic film (hydro referring to the water and lipidic to the oils present). This film helps to seal in moisture and forms a barrier against bacteria and other pathogens. Oral and topical treatments that alter the components of this layer can cause dryness, itchiness and sloughing.

La Roche-Posay® Effaclar H Compensating Smoothing Moisturizer helps restore the skin’s sensitive hydrolipidic film and is ideal for people undergoing treatment with topical retinoid derivatives, oral isotretinoin and other drying agents.

Effaclar H contains the emollients linoleic acid and squalane to lubricate the skin, bisabalol (a natural essential oil from chamomile) and thermal spring water to soothe irritations and redness. Patented ceramide 5 further helps consolidate the intracellular structures to help rebuild and strengthen the protective outer layer of the skin.

A full range of products for oily skin

The Derma Skincare Solutions section of the London Drugs cosmetics department carries the full line of La Roche-Posay® Effaclar formulations for oily skin. Included in this line of highly effective cosmeceuticals are Effaclar H Compensating Smoothing Moisturizer; Effaclar H Dermosoothing Deep-cleansing Foam (formulated to support the moisturizing product); Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel; EffaclarK Daily Renewal Fluid; Effaclar AI Targeted Breakout Corrector; Effaclar Active Matt Moisturizer; Effaclar Astringent Lotion Micro-exfoliant and Effaclar Makeup-removing Purifying Water.