How long should you use prescription retinol?

Author: Stanton Ledner  |  Last update: Thursday, September 4, 2025

Fact #3: Retinoids don't have to be irritating. First, choose the gentlest formula and begin slowly - apply it just 1 night a week for 1 week, 2 nights a week for 2 weeks, 3 nights a week for 3 week, and then every other night indefinitely.

How long is prescription retinol good for?

When you open an OTC or prescription retinol product like Tretinoin or Retin-A, its effectiveness begins to diminish as time passes. Generally, the retinol expiration date will fall between 6 to 12 months after opening, although this can vary depending on the formulation, packaging, and storage conditions.

How long should I keep using retinol?

Kobets says. “Start by applying a pea sized amount on top of a moisturizer about once a week [in the evenings]. It's better to use once a week for several months, than experience skin irritation from daily use and being forced to stop due to intolerance.”

How do you know when to stop using retinol?

Indications that you're experiencing retinol burn include: Dry skin. Redness contributing to uneven skin tone. Discoloration.

Is retinol safe for long-term use?

Topical retinol is generally safe for long-term use without any detrimental health risks. The health risks related to retinoid use normally come from strong retinoids taken by mouth.

HOW LONG IT TAKES TO SEE RESULTS FROM YOUR RETINOID @DrDrayzday

Should retinol be used forever?

Retinol is one of the best antiaging ingredients in skin care. You do not have to use it forever, but you should if you want to slow skin aging. To get the best results from retinoids, use them in the correct step of your skin care routine.

Should you take a break from retinol?

Should you take a break from retinol? If you experience adverse effects like burning, redness, or peeling from retinol, consider taking a break, reducing the frequency of use, or switching to a less irritating retinoid.

What happens after you stop using retinol?

Potential for Skin Dryness: Retinol users often experience dryness, flakiness, or peeling as a common side effect. Upon cessation of retinol, your skin may undergo a period of adjustment, leading to temporary dryness or irritation.

How long are retinol uglies?

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.

How to tell if retinol is working?

You will be able to tell that Retinol is working if you start to see improvements in the texture and general appearance of your skin. Some people might be able to spot changes in their skin quite quickly, while others will have to be more patient.

Is vitamin C serum better than retinol?

If you want to target wrinkles, uneven texture, or acne, retinol is your best bet. If you're looking for brighter skin and protection from environmental damage, vitamin C is the way to go.

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.

How many years can you use retinol?

There is no specific age for someone to start using retinol. Generally, starting retinol in the 20s is recommended for purposes of preventing signs of aging. However, it can be used earlier, especially for those with acne.

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.

Why do I look older after using 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 ...

How do you get rid of retinol uglies?

Myers believes that “gentle exfoliation is your best friend” and can help to remove some of the dry, flaky skin that may be irritating you. Try to use a natural exfoliant such as a product that contains coffee, sugar, or oatmeal. Just don't scrub at your skin too hard!

Can I put vaseline over tretinoin?

Generally speaking, let tretinoin absorb and fully dry before applying moisturizer.

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).

How do I know when to stop using retinol?

Retinol can cause a side effect called a retinol burn. Retinol burns can cause skin redness, irritation, and flaking. But it's not an allergy. You should stop using retinol if you develop a retinol burn.

Does dead skin come off after using retinol?

This rapid cell turnover helps to treat acne, hyperpigmentation and aging, but it can also lead to flaking, since your skin is shedding dead cells faster than it is used to, causing some cells to build up or peel from the surface.

Should you stop 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.

Is retinol 3 times a week enough?

We recommend following the 1-2-3 rule: apply retinol once a week for one week, twice a week for two weeks, three times for three weeks, then move towards every second night if there are no side effects happening. If you do experience flaking, redness or sensitivity, simply move back to a lower frequency for a week.

Which retinol is best for aging skin?

Retinol for Fine Lines and Wrinkles
  • Paula's ChoiceCLINICAL Anti-Aging 1% Retinol Treatment. ...
  • Kiehl's Since 1851Micro-Dose Anti-Aging Retinol Serum with Ceramides and Peptide. ...
  • Sunday RileyA+ High-Dose Retinol Serum. ...
  • StriVectinSuper-C Retinol Brighten & Correct Vitamin C Serum.

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