HomeIngredientsRetinoids

Firmness and renewal

Retinoids

Retinoids, skincare forms of vitamin A, used for smoother texture and softer-looking lines.

  • Conditions skin
What it is
Retinoids are the vitamin A family of skincare; on labels, look for retinol, retinal, retinyl palmitate or hydroxypinacolone retinoate.
What it does
Used in serums, creams, eye creams and patches for smoother texture, softer-looking lines and a firmer look.
How often
Usually in the evening, starting slowly and building up as the formula allows. Some eye, toner and trace-retinoid products allow daytime use with sunscreen; masks, shots and sunscreens keep their specific schedules.

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 retinoid in a routine.

Use apart

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

  • AHAAlternate nights

    A retinoid and an AHA both work on the skin's surface, and in one evening they can leave it red and irritated. Give each its own night.

  • BHAAlternate nights

    A retinoid and BHA can dry out or irritate skin when layered. Use them on different nights unless a product's own directions pair them.

  • Vitamin CUse in separate sessions

    Save your retinoid for the evening and let vitamin C have the morning. Sensitive skin especially is more comfortable when the two never share a routine.

  • KaolinAvoid together

    Clay leaves skin drier than usual, and a retinoid straight after can tip it into irritation. Save your retinoid for nights without a mask.

70 products with retinoid

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