Should a 19 year old use retinol?

Author: Anibal Lubowitz  |  Last update: Friday, October 10, 2025

However, it is generally recommended that people in their 20s begin using it to address signs of aging proactively. Retinoids are likely unnecessary during the early teenage years to treat fine lines and wrinkles, however, starting earlier may be warranted for teens with oily or acne-prone skin.

Can I use retinol if I'm 19?

There are no set rules on how old you should be to use retinol. For anti-aging purposes, you can start preventatively in your 20s. Retinol helps to remove dead skin cells off the surface which helps to increase cell turnover and therefore stimulates collagen production.

Is 20 too early for retinol?

“It is one of the top anti-aging ingredients that I recommend to my patients. It spurs cells to regenerate more quickly, resulting in skin that looks smoother and more youthful.” As far as what age you should start using retinol, is it too early to start using retinol in your 20s? As a matter of fact, it's not.

Should a 19 year old have a skincare routine?

So, starting a basic skin-care routine in your teens and 20s is a good idea. But, if you are older, it's not too late to start caring for your skin. Forming healthy skin-care habits and routines will help you at any age.

Is 1% retinol too strong for beginners?

Is 1% Retinol Too Much for Beginners? If you're a new retinol user, starting at 1% retinol may cause your skin to become irritated and sensitive. For new vitamin A users, we always recommend that you start on the lowest strength (0.01%) and gradually work your way up from there.

10 Skin care PRODUCTS I DON'T USE| Dr Dray

What age should you use 1% retinol?

For its skin aging benefits, you can start to use it in your 20s as a preventive step. If you're using it for mild acne, you can use it even younger. Keep in mind that while OTC retinol can help mild acne, many people with breakouts will need a prescription-strength retinoid cream.

Does retinol make skin look worse at first?

Retinol works for acne by preventing clogged pores. You may still see pimples for the first couple of months of treatment — your skin might even look worse (this is sometimes referred to as the retinol purge). But if you stick with it, you'll see clearer skin.

Can a 19 year old use anti-aging serum?

You should start using face serum at the age of about 20 years, ideally! You may begin to notice some sort of skin damage at about your mid-twenties. So, 20-25 years is the right age to start using face serums.

Can teens use retinol?

Although it is acceptable for teens to use retinol, improper use can lead to issues. Using too much retinol may actually worsen skin pigmentation, especially for those with darker skin tones. Additionally, picking up over-the-counter retinol without consulting a dermatologist can put you at risk for skin irritation.

Is 19 too late to start skincare?

The American Academy of Dermatology suggests that an ideal time for a person to start a skin care routine may be in their 20s. Some beauty websites suggest that the best age to start a skin care routine is 12 years old.

Can a 19 year old use tretinoin?

Acne vulgaris (acne) is a common skin condition in children and adolescents. Efficacy of tretinoin is well documented in studies that included pediatric patients (12‐18 years of age).

What is the retinol purge?

Retinol purging is a temporary reaction where increased cell turnover brings underlying impurities to the surface, leading to breakouts, dryness, and irritation. Symptoms include flaking, redness, and rough texture. Although unsettling, this phase indicates that retinol is working to renew your skin.

Can retinol remove acne scars?

Some studies show that retinol can not only clear up acne but also improve acne scars. Some retinol products are sold over the counter, but your dermatologist could prescribe a stronger cream.

Can I use retinol at 19 reddit?

There's no age limit for retinoids but whether or not you need it depends on your skin concerns.

Can I use retinol if I don't have acne?

PAUL JARROD FRANK, DERMATOLOGIST

“I don't think anyone needs it, but there are people that can benefit from it”—like those with acne-prone skin or those concerned with signs of aging. If you have rosacea, psoriasis, or are eczema prone, then retinols are not really for you.

Can a 19 year old use salicylic acid serum?

Yes, salicylic acid is safe for teenagers and is often recommended for treating teen acne due to its effectiveness in unclogging pores and reducing oil. For more about treating teenage acne, read here.

Is using retinol at 18 bad?

However, it is generally recommended that people in their 20s begin using it to address signs of aging proactively. Retinoids are likely unnecessary during the early teenage years to treat fine lines and wrinkles, however, starting earlier may be warranted for teens with oily or acne-prone skin.

Why do kids like drunk elephant skincare?

First Things First, Why Do Teens Love Drunk Elephant So Much? Two words: social media. The brand is known for its bright, colorful packaging and has a huge fan base online. “[Teens] love gorgeous packaging.

What happens if you stop using retinol?

Many studies show that retinoids improve acne and wrinkles- but what happens to the skin when you stop using retinol? The short answer is- you will get a short-term benefit after stopping retinol but eventually your skin will return back to baseline (how it was before you began retinol).

What skincare should a 19 year old use?

Key points for Skincare routines for Teens (13-19)

Essential Ingredients for Teenage Skin: Salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide are highlighted as key ingredients to manage common teenage skin issues like acne, oiliness, and dryness.

At what age should you start using 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.

Is it OK to have wrinkles at 19?

It's a normal part of aging. Wrinkles that occur early in life could be the result of smoking or sun damage.

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.

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.

Where not to apply retinol?

🔥 Retinol Tips: If you are starting off with a retinol, make sure not to use it around your mouth because this area is the “kiss of death”. Your skin will get irritated and flaky, and although you may feel smooth in the short term —inflammation is the worst thing that you can do to your skin in the long run.

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