Retinols themselves are sensitive to light so if you expose your skin to the sun immediately after applying, the retinol does degrade to some extent2. That's why it's suggested that you use it in your evening routine (more on that later).
Retinol: Dermatologists often emphasize retinol at night because it's sensitive to sunlight. Applying it before bed allows it to work its magic without interference. It's a potent ingredient for anti-aging and promoting skin renewal.
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.
The combination of retinol and tanning beds doesn't just lead to sunburn—it can also trigger more severe skin reactions, including: Extreme dryness and irritation – Retinol already has a natural exfoliating effect, which can leave the skin feeling dry and sensitive.
Also a reminder to store retinols in a cool environment, as it seems they can degrade rapidly at higher temperatures (40 deg C) compared to moderate (25 Deg C).
Retinols themselves are sensitive to light so if you expose your skin to the sun immediately after applying, the retinol does degrade to some extent2. That's why it's suggested that you use it in your evening routine (more on that later).
Second, UVA/UVB break down many different skincare ingredients, including alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) and hydroquinone. Retinol is no exception — UV light can inactivate retinol and reduce its effectiveness. If you wear retinol without sunscreen during the day, it'll break it down before it can work its magic.
Retinal acts 11x faster than retinol, and, although it is closer to the active form of vitamin A (retinoic acid), retinal has been proven to have the same low irritation potential as retinol. Therefore, you can have a more powerful formula without compromising on your skin's comfort.
For some people, stopping retinol abruptly may not lead to serious changes, but it's always best to consult a dermatology provider to determine the most suitable approach based on your specific circumstances. However, there is a chance your more obvious signs of aging may return after discontinuing retinol.
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.
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 ...
How often can you use retinol? Since retinol can irritate your skin, it's best to start slow. After a patch test, you might use a product once every few days, and then gradually ramp up to once or twice per day.
However, when used with retinol, the effect can be too harsh on the skin, and can cause burns or scarring. If you've gone overboard, applying a hydrocortisone cream over the area can help.
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.
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.
To play it safe, Nandi recommends omitting your retinol use a few days before and after a summer vacation or beach day to minimize the risk of sun damage. Make this period without retinol even longer if you plan to get a tan. (Better yet, don't do that.)
This CeraVe serum retinol percentage is 0.3% encapsulated retinol..."
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.
Most people know aloe vera for its cooling and soothing properties but aloe vera is a popular natural alternative to retinol that has been used for centuries to regenerate and heal the skin. It contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation, hydrate the skin, and promote healing.
According to the new guidelines, EU regulators have put a blanket restriction on all skincare products containing more than 0.3 per cent retinol and bodycare products containing 0.05 per cent retinol. Starting from 1 November 2025, new products that do not adhere to those restrictions cannot enter the EU market.
Retinoids are a group of drugs derived from Vitamin A. Since the 1970s, doctors have used retinoids to treat acne, psoriasis, and some cancers. Dermatologists also realized that retinoids have anti-aging properties. You can apply these medications to the skin to improve skin tone and reduce the signs of aging.
“The purging process lasts somewhere between two and four weeks, depending on the person. Once you start to experience a purge, the most important thing to do is to continue treating, because if you stop, it will have been for nothing,” advises Dr. Zeichner.