Can I use retinol in the sun?

Author: Lori Hills  |  Last update: Saturday, March 29, 2025

Retinols themselves are sensitive to light so if you expose your skin to the sun immediately after applying, the retinol does degrade to some extent2. That's why it's suggested that you use it in your evening routine (more on that later).

How long after using retinol can you go in the sun?

Two weeks is a good amount of time. I usually recommend between one and two weeks prior to intense sun exposure. For moderate sun exposure, one does not need to stop the Retin-A at all, just use proper sun protection and avoid the sun in peak hours.

Is it safe to use retinol in summer?

So, can you use retinol in the summer? Provided that you always apply sunscreen the morning after using retinoids, it is perfectly safe to use vitamin A throughout the summer months.

What happens if you tan while using retinol?

The combination of retinol and tanning beds doesn't just lead to sunburn—it can also trigger more severe skin reactions, including: Extreme dryness and irritation – Retinol already has a natural exfoliating effect, which can leave the skin feeling dry and sensitive.

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).

Can You Use Retinol in The Summer? | Dr. Shereene Idriss

What happens if I don't refrigerate retinol?

Third, skin care formulas are created to exist at room temperature and retinol will naturally degrade over time- there's simply no fighting that fact (7)!

What happens if you leave skincare in heat?

How Temperature And Light Affect Your Skincare. Temperature and sunlight have a bigger impact on your skincare products than you might think. Extreme temperature and sunlight can result in the breakdown, oxidisation, curdling, or melting of formulations.

Can I use retinol if I work outdoors?

So while technically the idea that retinol will combust if you apply it in the morning and leave the house is, indeed, a myth, it's still incredibly important to take proper precautions. Make sure to apply a sunscreen of at least SPF 30 before going outside, especially if you apply retinol in the morning.

What happens if I stop retinol for 2 weeks?

For some people, stopping retinol abruptly may not lead to serious changes, but it's always best to consult a dermatology provider to determine the most suitable approach based on your specific circumstances. However, there is a chance your more obvious signs of aging may return after discontinuing retinol.

Is skin sensitive to sun with retinol?

Retinol, touted by many as the holy grail of flawless skin, can help encourage collagen production, blur fine lines and even skin tone. Unfortunately, it can also make you extra sensitive to sun damage.

What are the retinol uglies?

The Retinol Uglies: Fact vs Myths. Retinol can benefit skin in a myriad of ways. Often implemented into routines for anti-ageing and skin clearing, its potency can sometimes cause side effects in the short term. Termed 'retinol uglies', the skin shedding function of this ingredient results in sensitivity for many users ...

Can I go to the beach while on tretinoin?

You might think that, because tretinoin can heighten sensitivity to the sun, it's best to avoid using it altogether during the warmer months. However, consistency is key for achieving your skin goals – so, as long as you're protecting your skin from the sun, it's absolutely fine to use tretinoin during the summer.

Why retinol Cannot be used everyday?

Applying too much retinol can cause your skin to react badly. Skin discoloration, swelling, or acne flare-ups are common side effects of prolonged, high-dosage retinol use. Using too often or a dosage too strong for your skin can cause peeling and excessive dryness, which can eventually lead to skin thinning.

What does retinol burn look like?

The skin goes red, inflamed, and peeling because retinol has chemically burned away the upper layer of skin, the new exposed skin has not had enough time to build up its natural protection film to UV light and pollutants that a good UV moisturising oil can help with and reduce the exposure to skin cancer risk, ...

Can I put sunscreen over retinol?

Can you use sunscreen and retinol together? Yes, you can use sunscreen and retinol together. Using retinol serum at night is recommended to reduce the risk of skin becoming sensitive due to UV exposure. Follow up with sunscreen in the morning to ensure sun protection.

Is it OK to use retinol forever?

Do you have to use retinol forever once you start? If you are using it correctly, where you are balancing getting an effect with minimizing irritation and dryness, then there is really no reason to stop (with the exception of during pregnancy).

What does retinol purge look like?

For those of us who do suffer from purging, it can look like: breaking out in pustules (pimples), the appearance of flaky, peeling skin, irritation and dry patches. Getting these symptoms can be demotivating, especially if you're already feeling unconfident about your skin.

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.

Is it okay to use retinol in summer?

Wearing Retinol During the Summer Months

However, according to Rita Nandi of The Bloom Clinic, it's OK to use retinol year-round—with a couple of precautions, including the time of day it's applied, the concentration, and the amount of sun exposure.

What Cannot be applied with retinol?

Since retinol is such a powerful ingredient, it's important to be cautious about what you are pairing this with in your daily routine. To be specific, you cannot mix retinol with AHAs (Glycolic Acid Toner, Alpha Hydroxy Acid, Lactic Acid, Mandelic Acid Treatment, BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acid Serum, PHA Toner.

Does retinol help with dark spots?

Retinol can also mitigate the production of tyrosinase, an enzyme integral to the formation of melanin. This preventive mechanism can decelerate the onset of new hyperpigmented spots – which might be why it has been touted as THE skincare ingredient for treating skin conditions like hyperpigmentation and melasma.

Does heat damage retinol?

Retinoids are some of the most powerful anti-aging ingredients out there—but they are also some of the most unstable: Exposure to air, light, and heat can render them useless. Here's how to keep them fresh so they do their job.

Should I stop using my skincare if it burns?

Yes. If your skincare product is causing discomfort, pain, or burning, stop using it and wash your face to remove the product.

Can you leave sunscreen in the sun?

To keep sunscreen in good condition, don't leave it out in hot weather or in direct sunlight. Put sunscreen bottles in the shade, wrap them in a towel or place them in a cooler. Throw out sunscreen if its color or texture changes significantly.

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