Is retinol not recommended for dry and sensitive skin?

Although it is known for its numerous benefits on the skin, particularly on signs of ageing, retinol also has some drawbacks that may discourage those with sensitive and dry skin from using it. Redness, irritation, peeling, dryness, warmth... these are all skin signals that can appear after an application of retinol skincare, linked to its keratolytic action.

However, retinol irritation is not a necessity or a proof of effectiveness. It is possible to avoid it and bypass flaking, redness or tingling. There are several solutions to enjoy this active ingredient with little or no side effects. Moreover, advancements in formulation have enabled the proposal of solutions to make retinol more tolerable.

• Start with less potent treatments, gentler, with a low concentration of retinol ;

• Limit the frequency of application by starting with usage once a week for several weeks and gradually increase the usage rates, moving to, for example, every other evening;

• Avoid using retinol with other irritating active ingredients of the type glycolic acid, salicylic acid, vitamin C, etc;

• Select treatments that combine retinol with moisturising active ingredients (hyaluronic acid, glycerine...) and anti-inflammatory agents (Centella asiatica, niacinamide...) to counterbalance the irritating effect;

• Resorting toother forms of retinoidswhich are less irritating and therefore better tolerated;

• Opt for skincare where the retinol is encapsulated for a continuous and gradual release into the skin. This solution allows for the correct dosage of retinol to be delivered while giving the skin time to acclimate to it.

From now on, dry and sensitive skin types can now enjoy the multiple benefits of retinol, while addressing potential risks of irritation. Retinol is now accessible to all skin types.