At what temperature does retinol degrade?

Author: Dr. Garnett Tromp  |  Last update: Saturday, April 5, 2025

The results showed that the retinoids were degraded in almost all products, both at room temperature (0-80% degradation) and at 40°C (40-100% degradation). Retinol and Retinyl palmitate were similarly degraded, beta-carotene was slightly more stable and the most stable form was Hydroxypinacolone retinoate.

Does retinol go bad in heat?

Also a reminder to store retinols in a cool environment, as it seems they can degrade rapidly at higher temperatures (40 deg C) compared to moderate (25 Deg C).

Does retinol go bad if not refrigerated?

No. Refrigerating skincare is unnecessary unless the manufacturer says you HAVE to. You're fine keeping it at room temperature. Putting products not intended for refrigeration in the cold can alter consistency, formulation, and even the efficiency of the product. So yeah room temp is fine.

Does retinol degrade?

The main concern with over the counter retinol is that the ingredient degrades over time from exposure to environmental factors when it's in a serum or cream form. Are you only supposed to use retinol at night? I recommend using it at night because sunlight can destabilize the retinol molecule making it less effective.

Why is retinol banned in Europe?

The EU is restricting retinol concentrations in products to 0.3% or below, primarily due to concerns that the combined intake from various sources could exceed recommended limits and pose health risks. This is essentially a ban on concentrations of retinol over 0.3%.

My Hardest Breakup... Why I Stopped Using Tretinoin in My Skincare Routine | Susan Yara

What do Asians use instead of retinol?

Bakuchiol extract comes from the Babchi plant, known for its purple blossoms and its use in Chinese and Indian medicine. The extract can be found in daily moisturizers, serums and creams. “Bakuchiol is often used as a gentler alternative to retinol.

Can you use retinol in hot countries?

There's a common belief that retinol and sunlight just don't mix (because skin becomes hyper-sensitive), which begs the question, is it okay to use retinol in the summertime? In short, the answer is yes, it is safe to use retinol in the summertime, but there's a right way and a wrong way to use it.

How to know if retinol has gone bad?

Here's how to tell if your retinol has gone bad: Color Change: Fresh retinol products typically have a yellowish hue. If you notice that your retinol cream or serum has turned darker, especially brown, this is a sign that it has oxidized and is no longer effective.

Why does my skin look older after retinol?

Going overboard on the potent ingredient (known to cause irritation and dryness at high concentrations) can dry out your skin and make your wrinkles look more noticeable, says Rebecca Kazin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery in Washington, D.C. Avoid this side ...

Does vitamin C degrade retinol?

Can You Use Retinol and Vitamin C Together? Dermatologists recommend both retinol and vitamin C in your skincare routine—but they should be used at different times of day. Using retinol and vitamin C together (this doesn't have to be at the same time) may result in smoother, brighter skin.

What temperature should tretinoin be stored at?

Topical tretinoin should be stored at room temperature, between 68 F to 77 F (20 C to 25 C). It can be exposed to temperatures between 59 F to 86 F (15 C to 30 C) for shorter periods of time, such as when transporting it. Store in a cool, dry place.

Should I stop using retinol in winter?

Retinol can increase your skin's sensitivity to UV rays, which is why it's often advised to use it during times when you're not exposed to direct sunlight as much. The shorter days and more indoor activities of winter mean less sun exposure, making this the safest time to start or boost your retinol usage.

Is retinol temperature sensitive?

Retinol and other retinoids, like many other antioxidants, are sensitive to light, temperature and air.

When should I throw away retinol?

Retin A and Retinols expiration

When it comes to expiration dates, Retinol A and Retinols typically have an expiration date of two years after the manufacturing date. After this period, both products may become less effective, and cause skin irritation or other side effects.

Does retinol react with heat?

While it is a myth that you can't use retinol in the summertime, the ingredient does make our skin more sensitive to the sun's rays. This photosensitivity is caused as the exfoliation and removal of dead skin cells reveals the sensitive, more easily sunburnt new skin underneath.

How long do retinol uglies last?

The retinol uglies can last anywhere from 4–8 weeks. The exact length of a retinoid purge depends very much on your skin type and sensitivity. The amount and strength of your retinoid product can also play a part. Some people experience a purge flare-up for only a few days, and others don't get it at all.

Why is retinol causing more wrinkles?

The Wrinkle Worsening Myth

Here's the tea: Retinol does NOT make your wrinkles worse. But (and it's a big but), it can sometimes make your skin look worse before it gets better. When you first start using retinol, it's literally speeding up the process of cell turnover.

Should you put retinol under your eyes?

Improved skin texture: regular use of retinol in the eye contour can help smooth the texture of the skin, making it look smoother and more even. Reduction of hyperpigmentation: this compound can help reduce the appearance of dark spots and discoloration around the eyes.

Should you keep retinol in the fridge?

Any skincare product with retinol or Vitamin C belongs in the fridge as cold temperatures slow down the degradation of these ingredients. If you notice any packaging that doesn't have a solid, rubberized seal, you may want to pop these into the fridge as well.

What is the best retinol over the counter?

We've rounded up the best drugstore retinol products so you can reap all the rewards of the powerhouse ingredient.
  • Best Overall. No7 Protect & Perfect Intense Advanced Serum. ...
  • Best Value. Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Skin Therapy Oil for Face. ...
  • Best Moisturizing. RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Max Hydration Cream.

Why shouldn't you use retinol in the summer?

Second, UVA/UVB break down many different skincare ingredients, including alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) and hydroquinone. Retinol is no exception — UV light can inactivate retinol and reduce its effectiveness. If you wear retinol without sunscreen during the day, it'll break it down before it can work its magic.

What is the best retinol alternative?

We break down our list into serums, eye creams and moisturizers so you can find the retinol alternative that best fits into your skin care routine.
  • Herbivore Bakuchiol Serum. ...
  • Naturium Azelaic Acid Serum. ...
  • Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Resurfacing Serum. ...
  • Kora Organics Plant Stem Cell Retinol Alternative Serum.

What is the retinol purge?

Retinol purging is a temporary reaction where increased cell turnover brings underlying impurities to the surface, leading to breakouts, dryness, and irritation. Symptoms include flaking, redness, and rough texture. Although unsettling, this phase indicates that retinol is working to renew your skin.

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