Retinol breaks down in sunlight, losing its effectiveness. Apply it at night when your skin can process it without sunlight interference.
Using retinol makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Always wear and reapply SPF daily to protect your skin.
Applying retinol on damp skin increases irritation. Ensure your skin is fully dry before application—wait at least two minutes.
Retinol already provides exfoliation. Avoid combining it with other actives like AHAs and BHAs to prevent irritation. Use hydrating serums and moisturizers instead.
More retinol doesn't mean better results. Use a pea-sized amount to avoid irritation and dryness.
Start slow with retinol—two or three times a week. Gradually increase usage as your skin adjusts to avoid irritation and barrier damage.
Consistency is key with retinol. Don't stop using it during the initial purging phase; your skin will improve with regular use.
Choose the right retinol strength and formulation for your skin type. Beginners should start with a lower percentage and consider encapsulated retinol to minimize irritation.