Is it okay to use retinol forever?

Author: Kip Buckridge DVM  |  Last update: Thursday, October 9, 2025

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).

Can you use retinol forever?

You can stop using it at any time but since skin renews every 1-2 months (depending on your age) the benefits you gained won't continue. In order to keep seeing benefits it needs to be an ongoing thing. Just like sunscreen.

Can I ever stop using retinol?

Once I'm on retinol, can I ever stop? Will it fix my skin like Accutane? ``There are no side effects to simply stopping, so you can stop anytime you like. However, retinol does slow down the aging process. It will make a big difference for your skin, but you have to keep using it regularly for the long-term benefits.

Is retinol ok for long term use?

While retinol does not directly cause skin cancer, it may increase skin's sensitivity, making your skin more prone to sun damage when exposed to strong UV rays . Overexposure to the sun's UV rays over time is a leading cause of skin cancer.

Can I use retinol all my life?

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.

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Should I take a break from retinol?

“If you get too dry or red or peeling or irritated from retinol, simply take a break for two to three nights, moisturize only, and then resume using it. Our skin will typically get used to the products over time.”

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.

Are results from retinol permanent?

Rather than the results being permanent, Retin A resets the starting point, with continual use affecting how quickly the process occurs.

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.

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.

When to give up on retinol?

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

Can your skin become Dependant on retinol?

When you first start introducing retinol products into your night time skincare routine it can become a little addictive. You wake with such a great glow which makes it tempting to use more, and more often, but too much can actually cause damage to the skin and accelerate ageing.

Does retinol make you age slower?

Retinoids are a group of drugs derived from Vitamin A. Since the 1970s, doctors have used retinoids to treat acne, psoriasis, and some cancers. Dermatologists also realized that retinoids have anti-aging properties. You can apply these medications to the skin to improve skin tone and reduce the signs of aging.

Why does my skin look older after 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 ...

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.

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!

Does retinol cancel out vitamin C?

Experts usually advise against using retinol and vitamin C together. This is because the different PH requirements of the two ingredients usually end up rendering each other ineffective. However, this only happens if you use retinol and vitamin C at the same time — not in the same routine.

Does retinol lighten skin?

Some people find that topical retinol lightens their skin spots, though it takes months and can be irritating to your skin. It's a good idea to see a dermatologist (a medical doctor who specializes in conditions of the skin) if you're concerned about dark spots.

Can you ever stop using retinol?

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 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.

Can I use retinol indefinitely?

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).

When should I stop retinol treatment?

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.

What brand of retinol is the most effective?

  • Best Retinol Cream: SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3.
  • Best Tretinoin: Nurx Tretinoin Cream.
  • Best Adapalene: Differin Adapalene 0.1%
  • Best Retinol Serum: Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum.
  • Best for Acne-Prone Skin: CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum.

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