How Should You Start Using Retinol? A Dermatologist’s Guide for Beginners

Retinol is one of the most well-studied skincare ingredients for addressing visible signs of aging, but if you’re new to it, more isn’t necessarily better. The best way to start using retinol is gradually, giving your skin time to adjust while keeping the rest of your routine simple.

As a dermatologist, I often tell patients that consistency matters more than trying to use retinol as frequently as possible from day one.

What is retinol, and what does it do?

Retinol is a form of vitamin A commonly used in skincare products designed to improve the appearance of visible signs of aging. With continued use, retinol formulas can help improve the look of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin texture.

It’s important to remember that results depend on the complete formula, not just the presence of one ingredient. The concentration of retinol, formulation, stability, and tolerability all matter.

How often should a beginner use retinol?

If you’re new to retinol, introduce it slowly rather than immediately using it every night. I typically recommend patients to start with two to three times a week, and increase gradually to nightly use.

Some temporary dryness or flaking can occur when introducing a retinol product. That’s why choosing the right formula is so important. If you’re prone to dryness or sensitivity, look for a retinol formula designed with those needs in mind, like RoC’s Line Smoothing Max Hydration Cream Fragrance-Free.

Persistent redness, dryness, burning, or discomfort is a reason to pause and give your skin time to recover. If irritation continues, talk to your dermatologist.

Where does retinol go in your skincare routine?

While certain retinol formulas are suitable for morning and/or evening use, like RoC’s Clinical Retinol formulas, not all retinol products are formulated for daytime use. Always follow the directions for your specific product. If you use retinol during the day, you need to be especially diligent about sun protection and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

A simple nighttime routine might include cleansing, applying your retinol treatment, and moisturizing. You don’t need a complicated routine!

When adding retinol, I also recommend keeping the rest of your routine simple. I know it’s easy to get excited about trying new products, but keeping things simple makes it easier to understand how your skin is responding.

Do you need sunscreen when using retinol?

Daily sun protection is an important part of any skincare routine, and it’s especially important when your routine includes retinol.

In the morning, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and follow the directions for reapplication. Sunscreen also helps protect against UV exposure that can contribute to visible signs of premature skin aging.

If you’re investing time and money into your skincare routine but skipping sunscreen, you’re missing one of the most important steps. Daily sun protection helps protect the progress you’re working toward with the rest of your routine.

What should you avoid when starting retinol?

One of the most common mistakes I see is doing too much, too quickly.

If you’re introducing retinol for the first time, keep the rest of your routine gentle and consistent.

Be thoughtful about layering retinol with other ingredients. If you want to use retinol alongside an exfoliating acid like glycolic acid, you need to look for a formula that pairs the two together intentionally, like the RoC Line Smoothing 2-Step Peel Pads.

What’s the dermatologist takeaway?

Retinol doesn’t have to make your skincare routine complicated. Start gradually, follow the directions for your specific product, moisturize as needed, and use SPF 30 or higher every morning.

Most importantly, think about retinol as a long-term part of your routine. Visible improvements take time and continued use, so consistency is more important than rushing the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should a beginner use retinol?

Introduce retinol gradually, two to three times a week and work up to nightly use. For some patients that have very sensitive skin, I recommend the sandwich method: applying a moisturizer, then your retinol product, then layering on another layer of moisturizer.

Should I use retinol in the morning or at night?

It depends on the specific retinol formula. Always follow the usage directions on your specific product, whether it be twice daily or morning vs. night.

Do I need SPF if I use retinol?

Yes. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every morning as part of your daily skincare routine.

When should I stop using retinol and ask a dermatologist?

If you experience persistent redness, dryness, or discomfort that concerns you, pause use and speak with your dermatologist for personalized advice.

*A physician giving advice on a brand site should carry an "educational" purpose and is not medical advise