The side effects of retinoids typically last around a month to a month and a half. This range of 4-6 weeks varies from person to person as the skin accustoms itself to the new product. If you're experiencing peeling that lasts longer than this period, please reach out to your provider.
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.
As mentioned above, most retinol can stimulate the skin's natural cell rejuvenation process, causing the thinnest, outermost layer of skin to flake and shed away. While it's common perception that in order for retinol to do its job, it needs to cause flaking or peeling, that, however, is not true.
The duration of a retinoid purge generally depends on your skin type, but it typically lasts about four weeks.
What most people can expect during this time is that dead cells will rise to the surface, causing dry skin to flake off. New skin can become exposed and may appear red and irritated as it adjusts to this turnover. Whiteheads, blackheads, papules, and pustules may also appear in clusters and hard bumps.
Regardless of the acne treatment you're using, significant improvement in acne is not seen before 6-8 weeks, and it is reasonable to assess a maximal response to treatment after 12 weeks of regular (nightly) use in the case of a topical retinoid.
Wait: Allow the retinol to absorb into your skin. Waiting 20-30 minutes can reduce the risk of irritation. Moisturize: Apply your moisturizer to lock in hydration and soothe the skin.
Don't stop using your treatment altogether. As your skin adjusts, dryness and peeling will taper off.
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.
You can use a gentle moisturizing cream, but Vaseline is safer and works better. An alternative is Aquaphor Ointment. You can use 1% hydrocortisone OINTMENT (no prescription needed) twice a day for one week then once a day for one week if needed. Do not use near the eyes.
Option one: The sandwich technique
In this method we sandwich tretinoin between two layers of moisturiser. This buffers your skin from tretinoin and slows down the release. After washing your face, apply a layer of moisturiser. Allow it to dry down for 5-10 minutes.
“Retinol purging is a temporary side effect; if possible, continue to use your retinol as directed.”
“If you forget to moisturize while using retinol, your risk of sensitivity is higher,” Dr. Shah says. Also, avoid using retinol every day right off the bat — you'll want to increase use as your skin builds tolerance.
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.
How Long Does Tretinoin Peeling Last? The side effects of retinoids typically last around a month to a month and a half.
Use a Soothing Cream
If your skin is raw and peeling, especially while recovering from a sunburn, try using a gentle, fragrance-free cream containing aloe. Oat-based products can also help soothe peeling skin. Products that contain cortisone may help reduce inflammation.
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, ...
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.