Olay’s New Cleansing Melts Helped Me Add Retinol to My Nighttime Routine Without Drying My Skin

I have really sensitive skin, so the topic of retinol is intimidating. And yes, as a beauty editor, I know there are a lot of unhelpful myths and misconceptions about the ingredient. I’ve attended countless events for retinol launches, chatted with derms about proper application, and tried my fair share of products—and still, I’ve found it hard to integrate the formulation into my skincare routine without suffering from redness and dry skin. So naturally, I was hesitant to try Olay’s Cleansing Melts with retinol.

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I attended a soft launch for the brand’s latest creation earlier this year, and was immediately intrigued by the innovation. If you haven’t heard, the Cleansing Melts are tiny water-activated cleansers that lather up when wet. They come in little square pads, making them ideal for travel and on-the-go maintenance. In addition to retinol, Olay offers the Melts in two other varieties: vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. I tested both iterations, and was pleased with the convenience and the  frothy foam feel.

After weeks of use, I discovered that I preferred the hyaluronic over vitamin C—only because the vitamin C version features a subtle citrus scent, and I like to stick to fragrance-free products to avoid irritation. Despite the smell, however, my skin was thoroughly cleansed, even on days I wore a face full of makeup. The hyaluronic acid was especially hydrating and refreshing. I figured since I had no issues with the first two, I could give retinol a try.

How I Tested

While the instructions suggest using nightly, I decided to start with two nights a week before building up to three. Per the recommendation, I ran a single pad under water for three seconds and watched it dissolve in my hand. I then rubbed my hands together, creating a creamy lather. Next, I massaged the product onto my face for about 45 seconds. I then rinsed, gently patted my face dry, and continued with the rest of my evening routine, which includes a serum and a moisturizer. (My current rotation includes the Paula’s Choice Pro-Collagen Multi-Peptide Booster and either the SkinMedica Rejuvenative Moisturizer or Tula’s Hydrating Day & Night Cream.)

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My Honest Thoughts

While one activated pad doesn’t create the same amount of lather seen on the box, it’s just enough to get the job done—especially since I was weary about using too much retinol in the first place.

As I massaged the bubbles all over my face, my skincare and makeup came off with ease. I had been wearing the Paula’s Choice C15 vitamin C serum, Tula’s Hydrating Day & Night Cream, e.l.f. Cosmetics’ Suntouchable Whoa Glow SPF 30 in the shade Sunbeam, highlighter from Glossier, IT Cosmetics Sun Cream Blush in the shade Sunray, Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eyeshadow in Brick, and a little mascara. Usually, I have to double cleanse my eye area, but I didn’t with the Melts. Afterward, my skin felt pristinely clean, surprisingly hydrated, and supple. There was no burning or irritation—even after I tested again on two separate occasions. I’m a happy camper.