Retinoids (retinol, retinaldehyde, adapalene) are the most evidence-backed ingredient in skincare — they speed cell turnover and boost collagen, which is why they help with fine lines, texture, and acne. They're also the ingredient people most often quit because they started too aggressively.
The slow-start protocol
- Begin 2–3 nights a week, not nightly.
- Apply a pea-sized amount to dry skin.
- Buffer if it stings — moisturiser first, then retinoid, then more moisturiser.
- Build up frequency over 4–8 weeks as your skin tolerates it.
- Wear SPF every morning — retinoids make skin more sun-sensitive.
The "purge" is normal-ish
Some people break out in the first 2–6 weeks as turnover speeds up. Mild purging in areas you usually break out is expected; widespread new irritation is a sign you're going too fast — scale back.
Don't stack it with the wrong things
Retinoids clash with benzoyl peroxide (use at different times) and with exfoliating acids (alternate nights). Our conflict checker will catch these automatically if you add them to a routine.
Reactive or sensitive skin? Consider starting with azelaic acid instead — it's gentler and addresses many of the same concerns. For a gentler step up the retinoid ladder, see retinaldehyde vs retinol or the plant-based bakuchiol.