Retinol for Beginners: Benefits, How to Use It and Which Product to Choose
Retinol is a form of vitamin A and one of the most studied skincare ingredients there is. Used consistently, it can smooth texture, fade dark spots, refine the look of pores and soften fine lines. It also has a reputation for causing dryness and peeling when people start too fast. This guide explains what retinol does, how to choose between a retinol serum and a retinol cream, and how to build it into your routine gently.
What does retinol do for your skin?
Retinol speeds up the rate at which skin renews itself and supports the skin's own collagen production. Over time, that can mean:
- Smoother, more even skin texture
- Softer-looking fine lines and wrinkles
- Gradual fading of dark spots and post-acne marks
- Fewer clogged pores and breakouts
- A brighter, more even-looking complexion
Retinol, retinal and bakuchiol: what's the difference?
Retinol belongs to a family of vitamin A ingredients called retinoids. Your skin converts them into retinoic acid, the form that actually works. The fewer steps it takes, the stronger and faster the ingredient tends to be, and the more likely it is to irritate.
| Ingredient | Strength | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Retinyl esters (e.g. retinyl palmitate) | Gentlest | Very sensitive skin, first-time users |
| Retinol | Moderate | Most people starting out |
| Retinal (retinaldehyde) | Stronger, faster results | Experienced users, or beginners using a low strength |
| Bakuchiol | Plant-based alternative, not a retinoid | Sensitive skin, or anyone who can't tolerate retinol |
Prescription retinoids such as tretinoin are stronger again and should only be used under medical advice.
Bakuchiol comes from the babchi plant. One small study found it improved wrinkles and pigmentation similarly to retinol, with less dryness and peeling. Try Eqqualberry Bakuchiol Serum if your skin is easily irritated.
Retinol serum or retinol cream?
- Retinol serum: lightweight and quick to absorb. A good fit for oily and combination skin. Try SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Retinol 0.2 Boosting Shot Ampoule, a gentle low-strength option.
- Retinol cream: richer, with moisturising ingredients that cushion the retinol. A good fit for dry or mature skin. You can also apply a night cream over a serum for the same effect.
- Retinol eye cream: formulated at lower strengths for the thinner skin around the eyes. The SKIN1004 Probio-Cica Bakuchiol Eye Cream is a gentle alternative. See all eye creams.
Browse our full range of retinol and anti-ageing serums.
Which strength should you start with?
- Beginners: retinol at 0.1% to 0.3%, or retinal at 0.05% to 0.1%.
- After a few months: move up to 0.5% retinol, or 0.2% retinal, if your skin is comfortable. The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion and Celimax The Vita Retinal Shot sit in this range.
- Experienced users: 1% retinol, such as The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane, is a strong formula and is not a starting point.
Higher is not always better. A lower strength you can use regularly will do more than a strong one that keeps irritating your skin. Browse the The Ordinary range for clearly labelled strengths.
How to use retinol: a step-by-step routine
- Use it at night only. Sunlight breaks retinol down, and it can make skin more sensitive to the sun.
- Start slowly. Use it two nights a week for the first two weeks, then every other night. Move to nightly use only if your skin stays comfortable.
- Apply to clean, dry skin. Wait a few minutes after cleansing; damp skin can increase irritation.
- Use a pea-sized amount for your whole face. Avoid the corners of your nose, mouth and eyes.
- Follow with moisturiser. If your skin is dry or sensitive, try the "sandwich" method: moisturiser, then retinol, then moisturiser again. Our guide to choosing a moisturiser for your skin type can help.
- Wear sunscreen every morning. This step is not optional while using retinol. Our guide to choosing the best sunscreen for your face explains how much to use and when to reapply.
Retinol purging and side effects
When you start retinol, it is common to have a few weeks of dryness, flaking, tightness or mild redness while your skin adjusts. Some people also get small breakouts in areas where they usually break out, known as "purging". This usually settles within four to six weeks.
Stop and speak to a pharmacist if you have burning, swelling or a rash, or if breakouts appear in new areas. Our sensitive skin range has soothing products for calming irritated skin.
Can you use retinol with other ingredients?
- Vitamin C: yes, but at different times. Use vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night. See our guide to vitamin C and niacinamide.
- Niacinamide: a great partner. It supports the skin barrier and can make retinol easier to tolerate. Shop niacinamide.
- Hyaluronic acid: works well alongside retinol to add hydration. Shop hyaluronic acid.
- AHAs, BHAs and benzoyl peroxide: avoid using these on the same night as retinol, especially while your skin is adjusting.
Retinol for acne and dark spots
Because it keeps pores clear and speeds up skin renewal, retinol can help with blackheads, whiteheads and the marks breakouts leave behind. If acne is your main concern, read our acne treatment guide first, as prescription retinoids may suit you better. For pigmentation, combine retinol with daily sunscreen and products for dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
Who should avoid retinol?
- Anyone who is pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding
- People with active eczema or rosacea flares
- Anyone due to have waxing, laser or a chemical peel on the same area (stop for about a week before)
If you are unsure, ask your doctor or pharmacist before starting.
Frequently asked questions
When will I see results from retinol?
Most people notice smoother texture within four to eight weeks. Changes to fine lines and dark spots take longer, often three to six months of regular use.
Can I use retinol in summer?
Yes. Use it at night, wear SPF 50 every morning, and reapply sunscreen when you are outdoors. If your skin feels more sensitive in the heat, use it less often.
At what age should I start using retinol?
Many people start in their mid-twenties to early thirties for prevention. It can be used earlier for acne, ideally with advice from a pharmacist or dermatologist.
Can I use retinol under my eyes?
Only with a product made for the eye area, as the skin there is thinner and more easily irritated.
Ready to start? Explore our retinol and anti-ageing serums at Avnzor, or ask our pharmacists to help you choose the right strength.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general information purposes only and is not a substitute for the advice of a physician or qualified dietitian.
