Who shouldn't use retinol?

Author: Tiana Sauer V  |  Last update: Saturday, August 16, 2025

You Shouldn't Use Retinol If You Have Sensitive Skin If you still find that you're experiencing retinol side effects like excessive dryness or irritation, consult a dermatologist for advice on how to proceed with your routine. Kiehl's Tip: Retinol isn't the only subject of skincare myths.

Who should avoid using retinol?

Avoid retinol products if you have a sunburn, broken skin or other skin irritations. Use SPF 30 and wear sun protective clothing and hats to reduce your exposure to the sun. Ask your healthcare provider about the best time to apply moisturizer as part of your skincare routine.

What skin type is retinol not good for?

``People with more oily skin tend to tolerate them, while those with dry, sensitive skin tend to suffer skin irritation from retinoids,'' Emily Newsom, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, tells SELF.

Why is retinol banned in Europe?

The EU is restricting retinol concentrations in products to 0.3% or below, primarily due to concerns that the combined intake from various sources could exceed recommended limits and pose health risks. This is essentially a ban on concentrations of retinol over 0.3%.

What medications should you avoid with retinol?

The combination of lithium and retinoids should also be avoided. Because of the additive effect of undesirable side effects, the combination of retinoids and potentially hepatotoxic molecules especially methotrexate and of isotretinoin and potentially photosensitizing molecules should be avoided.

I STOPPED USING TRETINOIN (This Is Why) - 3 Anti-Aging Alternatives To Tret

What does retinol conflict with?

Don't combine retinol with alpha or beta hydroxy acids, benzoyl peroxide, vitamin C, and other retinols or retinoids. Don't skip sunscreen Retinols are usually used as part of nighttime skincare routines, but even when they're applied at night, they can lead to lingering sun sensitivity.

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.

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.

Why are people against retinol?

Because retinoids can be very irritating to the skin if not used properly. The higher the strength, the more skin irritation (redness and peeling), the lower the strength, the less skin irritation.

What is the safest retinol to use?

Our Top Picks
  • Best Overall: Eau Thermale Avène RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream, $79.
  • Best for Dry Skin: Dr. ...
  • Best for Sensitive Skin: Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3, $65.
  • Best Encapsulated Retinol: Iope Retinol Super Bounce Serum, $50.
  • Best Lightweight: Kiehl's Retinol Fast-Release Wrinkle-Reducing Night Serum, $88.

Should I use hyaluronic acid or retinol?

Find the Right Balance for Your Skin

If you have dry skin: Focus on hydration with hyaluronic acid while slowly incorporating retinol to avoid irritation. Retinol for dry skin can be beneficial but should be used with caution. If you have oily or spot-prone skin: Retinol can help manage acne and reduce oil production.

What moisturizer is best paired with retinol?

Niacinamide. With antiaging and skin-soothing properties, Niacinamide makes a great buddy for retinol. It can help to reinforce your skin's protective barrier and reduce water loss to counteract irritation and dryness like a boss.

Why does my skin look more wrinkled after using retinol?

The Wrinkle Worsening Myth

Here's the tea: Retinol does NOT make your wrinkles worse. But (and it's a big but), it can sometimes make your skin look worse before it gets better. When you first start using retinol, it's literally speeding up the process of cell turnover.

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.

Is retinol banned in Europe?

Retinol Banned in The E.U. Legislation to limit Retinol concentrations in over-the-counter skincare and body care throughout Europe was slated to go into effect at the end of 2023. However, the actual adoption will now be in June 2024, with a grace period of 18-36 months to allow the countries in the E.U.

What happens when you stop retinol?

Potential for Skin Dryness: Retinol users often experience dryness, flakiness, or peeling as a common side effect. Upon cessation of retinol, your skin may undergo a period of adjustment, leading to temporary dryness or irritation.

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.

What retinol does Jennifer Aniston use?

At night, Aniston treats her skin with a dose of retinol, specifically the Shani Darden Retinol Reform Treatment Serum ($90).

How do Koreans not have wrinkles?

Korean ladies use facial massage to promote circulation and bring oxygen and nutrients to the skin's surface. It's an amazing way to boost skin's radiance and combat fine lines and wrinkles. Start with a dab of your favorite facial oil or moisturizer. You can add a bit of your favorite serum for an extra boost.

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.

Can I use hyaluronic acid with retinol?

The answer is yes. The combination of these two ingredients can help you treat multiple skin concerns and give you a more youthful, radiant complexion. However, it's important to use these ingredients in moderation and in the correct order to avoid any adverse effects.

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.

Can I use vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night?

In light of this, using your vitamin C in the morning and your retinol at night is a simple and easy way to ensure that these ingredients won't interfere with one another. Applying your products at opposite ends of the day means your skin will be at its regular pH level for each application.

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