What are retinol pros and cons?

Author: Felipa Considine III  |  Last update: Thursday, June 12, 2025

Pros & Cons
  • Pros - Can address chronic skin conditions; stimulate skin cell turnover and growth; generate significant results.
  • Cons - Exorbitant cost; can be harsh on the skin (redness, scaling/flaking); risks depending on pregnancy status.

What is the downside of retinol?

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.

Is vitamin C better or retinol?

They both provide similar benefits which is why dermatologists have even given a go-ahead to use the two together. If you have dull and dry skin then you should try Vitamin C first. If your problem is fine lines and wrinkles then you should start incorporating Retinol into your daily skincare routine.

Do dermatologists recommend retinol?

But, retinol can actually be helpful for most people. “We can typically get most of our patients using a retinol, even those who are sensitive, but it takes time and patience to begin using retinols correctly—the exception here is patients with severe rosacea or extremely sensitive skin,” Bialas said.

What do Asians use instead of retinol?

Bakuchiol extract comes from the Babchi plant, known for its purple blossoms and its use in Chinese and Indian medicine. The extract can be found in daily moisturizers, serums and creams. “Bakuchiol is often used as a gentler alternative to retinol.

What Retinol Does and Why You NEED It!! | Dr Sam Bunting

Why are retinoids banned in Europe?

Because body products are used on larger areas of skin, they may contribute to higher levels of vitamin A in the bloodstream. By limiting the retinol concentration in body products to just 0.05%, the EU hopes to prevent higher concentrations of vitamin A from accumulating in the body.

Does Kim Kardashian use retinol?

For just $21, you can get RoC's Retinol Correxion Night Cream and give your skin the healthy boost it needs. Back in 2021, Kardashian called this cream one of the “best drugstore skincare products” out there, and for good reason.

At what age should you start using 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.

What are the long term side effects of retinol?

The most commonly reported symptoms were headaches, dry skin, and fatigue. There were no significant differences between groups in the frequency of symptoms categorized as ≥2.

Is hyaluronic acid better than 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 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.

Are peptides better than retinol?

Choosing between peptides and retinol depends on your skincare goals, skin type, and tolerance. If you have sensitive skin or are looking for a more gradual approach, peptides might be the better choice. On the other hand, if you're seeking faster and more dramatic results, retinol could be your go-to option.

What is the dark side of retinol?

Retinol Can Have Side Effects

Among the most common are dryness, peeling, redness, and discomfort. Usually, these retinol side effects are temporary and resolve once your skin gets used to the retinol product you're using (this phenomenon even has its own name: the retinization period).

What is the best moisturizer for aging skin?

SkinCeuticals' Triple Lipid Restore is our top pick because it absorbs well and promises deep hydration while providing skin a youthful glow. Glow Recipe Plum Plump Hyaluronic Cream is a close second because it can moisturize and plump skin intensely. Aging is a beautiful thing, but change isn't always easy.

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.

Should I use 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.

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).

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 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.

Does Jennifer Aniston use retinol?

At night, Aniston treats her skin with a dose of retinol, specifically the Shani Darden Retinol Reform Treatment Serum ($90). “Retinol is perhaps the best studied anti-aging ingredient that we have to fight the signs of aging,” Dr. Zeichner shares.

Why do the Kardashians have no wrinkles?

However, recent photos of the reality star seem to indicate that she may have gone back on her word. Her wrinkle-free complexion and frozen facial appearance point to BOTOX® Cosmetic being the secret behind her youthful appearance.

Does JLO use retinol?

Consistency is key for J. Lo. She incorporates retinol into her routine regularly to maintain her youthful glow.

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