Why are the EU banning retinol?

Author: Prof. Lora Stracke  |  Last update: Saturday, August 16, 2025

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.

Why is retinol restricted 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.

Why is retinol controversial?

But, it does have its drawbacks. Retinol might cause your skin to peel and become flaky, dry, and irritated. You might even breakout.

Why is retinol not recommended?

Retinol might not be a fit for those with overly sensitive or hypersensitive skin, those who have food intolerances or high allergic reactions, and young skin, she says. “Caution is necessary when using any vitamin A derivatives and should only be used after advice from your derm or skin care specialist,” Joss says.

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.

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

How toxic is tretinoin?

According to the FDA drug labeled guidelines of orally administered tretinoin, most patients will experience drug-related toxicity, such as headaches, weakness, fever, and fatigue. Interruption of therapy is rarely required as these adverse effects are rarely permanent or irreversible.

Why do I look older after using 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 ...

Is retinol damaging long-term?

It's unlikely you'll experience retinol side effects long-term. However, retinol can leave your skin more vulnerable to sun damage, so it's important to apply sunscreen daily. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

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.

Does retinol age your skin?

Retinol has many skin-clearing and antiaging benefits. Retinol increases the thickness and elasticity of your skin, slows the production of melanin, reduces inflammation and prevents clogged pores.

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.

Is retinol banned in 2025?

Products with concentrations higher than 0.3% and body care products higher than 0.05% will be banned🚫 The reason for thjs is apparently due to concerns about cumulative vitamin A exposure and toxicity.

Which retinol to avoid?

Read labels and avoid products containing retinyl palmitate and all-trans retinoic acid (tretinoin). Also avoid products with high doses of retinol (when in daily dosages in excess of 10,000 IU, or 3,000 retinol equivalents).

What percentage of retinol is in CeraVe?

This CeraVe serum retinol percentage is 0.3% encapsulated retinol..."

Why does my skin look so bad after using retinol?

As retinol stimulates the flaking of old skin cells, you might experience dryness and skin flaking, particularly in areas where you're prone to dryness. This shedding is a natural part of the renewal process, but it's crucial to maintain a proper skincare routine and protect the skin with adequate UV protection.

Does tretinoin age your skin?

Unlike over-the-counter anti-aging products, tretinoin has anti-aging ingredients that go deep beneath the outer portion of the skin to the epidermis. It boosts the production of new collagen in around six months, resulting in smoother, younger-looking skin.

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.

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.

Does retinol bring out age spots?

Retinoids minimize the appearance of wrinkles, bolster skin's thickness and elasticity, slow the breakdown of collagen (which helps keep skin firm), and lighten brown spots caused by sun exposure.

Why is retinol causing more wrinkles?

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.

Is tretinoin hard on the liver?

Retinoids have been implicated in causing mild-to-moderate elevations in routine liver tests, but these elevations are usually asymptomatic and transient, resolving spontaneously even with continued therapy.

Does tretinoin increase facial hair in females?

Dr Kiran acknowledges some evidence that suggests tretinoin may aid in hair growth: Tretinoin promotes cell turnover, which can help rejuvenate hair follicles. It may enhance the absorption of other hair growth treatments, such as minoxidil.

Who Cannot use tretinoin?

Tretinoin must not be taken by patients who are pregnant or who may become pregnant. There is a high risk that tretinoin will cause the baby to be born with birth defects (physical problems that are present at birth). If you can become pregnant, you will need to avoid pregnancy during your treatment with tretinoin.

Previous article
Where do tattoos hurt the most?
Next article
Is it good to give your hair a break from conditioner?