HomeIngredientsRetinoidsRetinol

Firmness and renewal

Retinol

Vitamin A in its pure alcohol form; many formulas encapsulate it to keep it stable.

  • Conditions skin
What it does
Used in serums, creams, eye creams and patches for the look of fine lines, firmer-feeling skin and smoother texture.
How often
Usually in the evening, starting gradually where directed; some everyday creams, toners and eye products allow morning use, while masks and shot formulas have different intervals.

This is a retinoid, which is commonly avoided during pregnancy, so ask your doctor or midwife before using it. This isn't medical advice.

Pairs with

Ingredients that sit well beside retinol in a routine.

Use apart

What we recommend keeping out of the same session as retinol, and why.

  • AHAAlternate nights

    Retinol and an AHA both work on the skin's surface, so together they can leave it red and irritated. Use them on different nights.

  • BHAAlternate nights

    Retinol and BHA can each dry out or irritate skin, and layered in one routine they are more likely to. Keep them to different nights unless a product's own directions pair them.

  • Vitamin CUse in separate sessions

    Vitamin C suits your morning routine and retinol your evening one. Keeping them apart is kinder to sensitive skin.

  • KaolinAvoid together

    A clay mask soaks up oil and leaves skin drier, and retinol on the same night adds to that. Skip retinol on mask nights.

Products with retinol

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