Is it okay to use retinol 3 times a week?

Author: Osbaldo Ratke  |  Last update: Monday, September 1, 2025

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.

Should I take a break from retinol?

If you think of the benefits of retinols as being cumulative and over a long period of time then taking 2 weeks off is not going to have a massive detriment to your skin and as you rightly mention could make your skin more sensitive to the sun.

What happens if you use retinol too much?

With repeated use, retinol products begin to thin out your skin and will eventually make you more susceptible to UVA rays. If you're not wearing adequate SPF all the time, with passing years you'll have more melasma, more discoloration... Plus, they can be way too harsh on the skin, even if you don't feel the redness.

Is it okay to use retinol everyday?

You can absolutely use retinol every day if you're not experiencing irritation. People only say to use retinol a few times a week to minimize irritation, but if your skin is very tolerant of it and you're not having any issues, there's no reason as to why you couldn't use it every day.

Is 3 times a week enough for retinol?

In general, it is recommended to use retinol and retinoic acid products 2-3 times a week at night, and to avoid using them during the day due to their potential to increase sensitivity to sunlight.

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What is the rule of 3 for 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 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.

What does retinol purging 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.

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.

Is retinol healthy long term?

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.

Why is retinol banned in Europe?

This was driven by concerns over skin irritation and systemic absorption. These could pose health risks, particularly in vulnerable populations such as pregnant women. The ban reflects a broader precautionary approach by the EU.

Is retinol damaging to 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.

Should I apply moisturizer after retinol?

Yes, moisturizing after using a retinol cream is generally recommended. Retinol can potentially cause dryness or irritation, especially when starting to use it or if you have dry or sensitive skin.

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.

What is the best age 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.

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, ...

What is better, hyaluronic acid or retinol?

Indeed, retinol is excellent for treating acne and imperfections, while hyaluronic acid is ideal for dehydrated skin. And it is also possible to combine them in your beauty routine to benefit from their full effectiveness. This moisturizing cream, to be used daily, has many advantages!

What goes first, vitamin C or retinol?

Apply vitamin C first due to its lower pH, then wait at least 30 minutes for your skin pH to neutralise before applying your retinol.

Is retinol good for skin tightening?

Retinol can help improve the skin's firmness, which may help the skin appear “tighter.” However, topical medications (including retinol) can only treat the outer layers of the skin; they cannot address loose or sagging skin due to age-related changes in the underlying support structure of the face.

How many times a week should I use retinol?

If your skin is tolerating Retinol well after three weeks of use every three days, move up to every other day, then every day. As a rule the more irritated your skin is, the less frequently you should apply it. If your skin responds well, you can start applying Retinol every night.

How to survive retinol purge?

  1. Know that it's common. It's hardly glamorous, but “purging” is a natural part of the retinol process. ...
  2. Start low and slow. AND WEAR SPF. ...
  3. Be gentle on the skincare. Being gentle might mean you have to step down in other areas of your skincare. ...
  4. Leave the spots alone.

What is the best retinol serum?

Best retinol serums and treatments
  • The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane Serum. ...
  • PEACH & LILY Retinal For All Renewing Serum. ...
  • Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum. ...
  • La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Face Serum for Fine Lines & Wrinkles. ...
  • e.l.f. Cosmetics Youth Boosting Blue-ty Sleep Night Oil. ...
  • Naturium Retinol Complex Serum.

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.

Does retinol remove dark spots?

Retinol also stimulates collagen production, which is another way it diminishes dark spots. Not only will dark spots be reduced, but wrinkles and sagging skin will also begin to diminish, and the effects of retinol products will continue to work just as effectively over time.

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.

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