When considering the optimal order of application in your skincare regimen, one might wonder: should I apply moisturizer after retinol? This query beckons a deeper examination into the science behind these products. Retinol, often heralded for its remarkable ability to enhance skin texture and diminish signs of aging, penetrates the skin effectively. However, does layering moisturizer atop retinol influence its efficacy? Could it potentially dilute its potency or enhance its absorption? Furthermore, how might the unique characteristics of your skin type – whether oily, dry, or sensitive – inform this decision? In pondering these complexities, one might also contemplate the role of hydration in conjunction with retinol. Is it possible that applying a moisturizer first could create a barrier, thereby altering the interaction between these two powerful allies in your quest for radiant skin? In light of these considerations, what truly reigns supreme in this skincare conundrum?