Will this make my oily skin worse?
No. Oily skin is not the same as hydrated skin. Oil on the skin comes from the sebaceous glands beneath the skin’s surface. Hydration, on the other hand, refers to the water content in your skin cells. When that water content drops, the skin gets dehydrated, regardless of how much oil is on the surface. This lightweight moisturizer for acne-prone skin is designed to hydrate the skin without causing any oiliness or stickiness.
Can I use this if I'm on tretinoin/retinoids?
Yes, and you should. Retinoids make your skin barrier more sensitive. This moisturizer helps rebuild the barrier and reduce sensitivity so your skin can tolerate the retinoids better. Apply this after your retinoid absorbs (wait 2-3 minutes). Many people find they can increase retinoid frequency once their barrier is supported.
Pro tip: If your skin is dry, sensitive or very reactive to retinoids, try the ‘sandwich method’: Apply a layer of Rebuild + Hydrate → apply a layer of retinoids → seal with another layer of Rebuild + Hydrate.
How is this different from regular moisturizers?
Rebuild + Hydrate is designed specifically as a moisturizer for acne-prone skin and sensitive skin. Unlike regular moisturizers which rely on one or two classes of moisturizing ingredients, this moisturizer is formulated with barrier-supporting ingredients like Linoleic Acid, Ceramides, Squalane, and Panthenol. It is also 100% free of added fragrance, thick occlusives, and comedogenic ingredients, making it a safe and effective choice for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Is this enough hydration or do I need something heavier?
For most oily, normal and combination skin types, this alone is sufficient. If you have very dry skin or live in extremely dry climates, layer a hydrating serum like Hyaluronic Acid under this moisturizer.
Can I use this morning and night?
Yes. Morning: apply after cleansing, before sunscreen. Night: apply after cleansing (and any treatment products), as your final step. Consistent twice-daily use optimizes barrier repair.
Will this fade my acne scars?
Yes. Rebuild + Hydrate contains Niacinamide and Tranexamic Acid, which help fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), the dark marks left after acne. This makes it a useful addition to a routine focused on acne marks treatment.
Can I use this with Vitamin C, AHAs and other actives?
Yes. This is compatible with all active ingredients and actually helps your skin tolerate them better by maintaining barrier integrity. Apply actives first (thinnest to thickest consistency), wait for absorption, then apply this moisturizer.
I have sensitive skin. Is this safe?
Yes. The formula is designed for compromised, reactive skin. It's fragrance-free and free of common irritants like essential oils, denatured alcohol, and parabens. The barrier-repair actives actually reduce sensitivity over time by strengthening your skin's defense system. This makes it well-suited for sensitive and acne-prone skin. It’s always a good idea to patch test a new product if your skin is very sensitive.
Can I use this on my body for chest or back acne?
Yes, but you'll need significantly more product for larger areas.
Is this safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?
None of the active ingredients used in Rebuild + Hydrate are contraindicated during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, always consult your doctor before starting new skincare during pregnancy, especially if you're using it with other treatments.
Will this break me out?
No. Rebuild + Hydrate has been tested by an independent third-party lab to be non-comedogenic.* It is formulated specifically as a non-comedogenic moisturizer for acne-prone skin.
Does this expire?
Yes. Shelf life is 6 months after opening. Store in a cool, dry place.
Can I use this if I don't have acne?
Yes. Barrier repair benefits everyone, including dehydrated skin, sensitivity, redness, and signs of aging. It can be used by anyone looking for hydration and barrier repair with a lightweight feel.
Can teenagers use this?
Yes. It's suitable for anyone over 13 years of age.
Can people with oily skin use a moisturizer?
Yes. In fact, oily skin still needs hydration. Skipping moisturizer can leave the skin dehydrated, which may encourage it to produce even more oil. A lightweight moisturizer for acne-prone skin can help maintain hydration without feeling greasy or clogging pores.
What is a non-comedogenic moisturizer?
A non-comedogenic moisturizer is formulated to minimize the risk of clogging pores. Rebuild + Hydrate uses lightweight, acne-safe ingredients and avoids heavy occlusives that can feel greasy or contribute to congestion, making it suitable for acne-prone skin.
