What are the retinoid uglies?

Author: Sebastian Ebert  |  Last update: Tuesday, July 8, 2025

The Retinol Uglies: Fact vs Myths. Retinol can benefit skin in a myriad of ways. Often implemented into routines for anti-ageing and skin clearing, its potency can sometimes cause side effects in the short term. Termed 'retinol uglies', the skin shedding function of this ingredient results in sensitivity for many users ...

What does retinoid purging look like?

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.

What are the stages of retinol on skin?

Every form of retinol must convert to retinoic acid before it can impact the skin. Retinol has to convert twice — first to retinaldehyde and then to retinoic acid — while retinaldehyde only undergoes one conversion, so it's more potent.

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 get rid of 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.

RETINOL UGLIES: TIPS TO AVOID IRRITATION, PURGING, AND SIDE EFFECTS

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.

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, ...

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.

How long should you wait to apply moisturizer after retinol?

Wait: Allow the retinol to absorb into your skin. Waiting 20-30 minutes can reduce the risk of irritation. Moisturize: Apply your moisturizer to lock in hydration and soothe the skin.

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.

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.

How long does retinol purge last?

How long will the retinol purge last? 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…

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.

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.

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.

Is it better to put retinol on wet or dry skin?

It's essential to make sure to wait until your skin is dehydrated before moving on to applying your retinol. If you use it on wet or even damp skin, there is a greater likelihood that you'll experience irritation. That is because cleansing the skin opens up the pores.

What is the sandwich method of retinol?

In short, the retinol sandwiching technique is as follows:

Apply a layer of moisturiser to damp skin. Allow this to dry completely. Apply your retinol. After giving retinol time to absorb, finish your skincare routine with a second layer of moisturiser.

What moisturizer is best paired with retinol?

Hyaluronic acid and other moisturizers – hyaluronic acid, peptides, ceramides, and other moisturizing and skin hydrating ingredients pair well with retinol and help to minimize adverse effects like skin drying.

What percent retinol is CeraVe?

"The Resurfacing Retinol Serum contains 32 ingredients. This CeraVe serum retinol percentage is 0.3% encapsulated retinol..."

What soothes retinol burn?

How can you soothe a retinol burn?
  • Use a cold compress. A cool compress can help soothe pain, burning, and itching. ...
  • Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. Moisturize liberally while you wait for your skin to heal. ...
  • Slather on the sunscreen. ...
  • Talk to a dermatologist or primary care provider.

Can I put vaseline over tretinoin?

Generally speaking, let tretinoin absorb and fully dry before applying moisturizer.

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.

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