How many weeks does retinol purge?

Author: Chasity Strosin  |  Last update: Friday, July 4, 2025

This varies, but you can expect the purge to last anywhere from 2 weeks to 3 months. If you're seeing results for longer than 3 months, you might want to consult your GP or dermatologist. But first, be sure your skin concerns are definitely related to retinol…

How long does purging last on retinol?

How long does retinol purging last? In general, a retinol purge is a one-time deal that takes about four weeks to complete, although the amount of time varies by skin type. (Speaking of, retinol isn't a good idea for those with eczema, severe rosacea, or extremely sensitive skin.)

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.

How do you calm down retinol purge?

If you are experiencing skin purging after applying Retinol to your face — these are some tips you can follow to get past purging — more quickly.
  1. Make sure to moisturize well to strengthen the skin barrier. ...
  2. Don't forget to apply sunscreen. ...
  3. Don't quite just quit. ...
  4. Avoid using harsh skincare products.

Is it possible to avoid retinol purging?

Although purge can't be avoided it can be minimized by starting out slow, 2 or 3 applications per week, and working your way up. The skin adjusts more gradually this way.

Not Seeing Results with Retin-A (TRETINOIN)? Watch This Before You Quit & Avoid My Biggest Mistake

How to stop skin purging immediately?

If the skin purging stage is really troublesome, it can be helpful to decrease the frequency of your actives by alternating days of use. Stick with it - in time, things will likely improve. When the frequency of new spots starts to reduce, increase the frequency of your actives again.

How long did your tretinoin purge last?

Skin purging typically lasts anywhere between four to six weeks which is roughly in line with how long it takes for your skin cells to naturally turnover. During this phase, it might seem like your skin is getting worse but it should settle down and improve after you've passed this period.

What does retinol purging look like on the face?

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.

How to know 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.

How do you fix retinol uglies?

How to Treat the Retinol Uglies Without Making Things Worse
  1. Simplify Your Skincare (For Now) ...
  2. Apply Cold or Ice to Painful Areas. ...
  3. Use Soothing, Cleansing Remedies. ...
  4. Stay Away from Exfoliants. ...
  5. Seek Advice from a Dermatologist.

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.

How long does retinol take to fully clear skin?

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.

Is retinol purge guaranteed?

It's easy to spot these blemishes and run a mile - but the purge is temporary! It doesn't happen to everyone, but many people find their breakouts worsen before they get better when they start using a retinol product.

What is the timeline for retinol?

When can you expect to see changes in your skin? It takes at minimum around four weeks, and at maximum up to three months to start reaping benefits from retinol, as dermatologists say skin turnover benefits closely align with the timeline of collagen production.

Is retinol ruined my skin?

Can retinol damage your skin? If you use retinol, you'll sunburn more easily, which can damage your skin. Using high doses of retinol may also be associated with the development of skin cancer. Be sure to wear sunscreen and avoid direct sunlight (with clothing and hats) while you use retinol products.

How many times a week should you use retinol?

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.

How do you know if your skin doesn't like retinol?

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

Do you need to let retinol absorb?

Retinol (leave to absorb for 10-20 minutes)

Retinols are powerful antioxidants and it is important to allow it to fully absorb if you want to avoid your skin becoming sensitive,” says Dr Liakas. There is a caveat to this rule, however, so always check instructions.

How to calm down a retinol purge?

Using antioxidant serums can help. Vitamin c is the most popular serum but if you cannot tolerate it , you can use something with resveratrol and ferulic acid . Sunscreen is a must.

How long does retinol burn last?

Retinol burns heal on their own over 1 to 2 weeks, typically. But Dr. Robinson cautioned, “For people with sensitive skin or underlying conditions, like eczema, it may take a little longer.” If you develop a retinol burn, stop using retinol products until your skin heals.

Is skin purging a good thing?

While nobody likes to see it, purging is actually a really good sign. It means the medicine (oral or topical) is working, and your skin is cycling out debris and bacteria that have been causing your acne. “Topical retinoids enhance cell turnover and act like pipe cleaners for your pores.

What are the tretinoin uglies?

Vitamin A can be unstable as an ingredient, and this can mean your skin will become more sensitive. There is often an initial phase when using retinoids for the first time, known by many as the 'retinoid uglies'. Essentially, your skin can see a decline before improvement during an adjustment period.

How fast does retinol purge happen?

“The purging process lasts somewhere between two and four weeks, depending on the person. Once you start to experience a purge, the most important thing to do is to continue treating, because if you stop, it will have been for nothing,” advises Dr. Zeichner.

What moisturizer goes well with tretinoin?

Three inexpensive moisturizers that our physicians love are Vanicream Daily Facial Lotion with Hyaluronic Acid, Neutrogena Hydroboost Gel, and The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid Serum. All three of these are affordable, non-comedogenic,and blend well with tretinoin.

Previous article
Can Ulike damage skin?
Next article
How many lateral raises should I do?