1. Start with a calm, dry face
Cleanse with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser. Pat completely dry—retinol should be applied to dry skin to reduce the risk of irritation.
2. Apply a thin layer
Use a pea-sized amount for the full face. Dot onto forehead, cheeks, and chin, then gently spread—avoiding the eye area and corners of the nose and mouth.
3. Moisturise after
Wait 2–3 minutes, then follow with a nourishing moisturiser or barrier cream. This helps reduce dryness and supports skin repair overnight.
4. Use only at night
Retinol increases skin sensitivity to sunlight. Apply it PM only, and never in the morning.
5. Frequency guide for beginners:
- Week 1–2: Use 2x/week (e.g., Mon/Thurs)
- Week 3–4: Increase to every other night if no irritation
- After Week 4: Use nightly if skin tolerates well
6. What not to mix
- Avoid using with AHAs, BHAs, or benzoyl peroxide in the same routine—they increase sensitivity and may reduce retinol’s stability.
- Do not layer with high-dose vitamin C at night—use Vitamin C in the morning, retinol at night.
7. Pro tips
- If you’re new to retinol, use the “moisturiser sandwich” method: moisturiser → retinol → moisturiser again.
- Always apply SPF 50+ in the morning, even on days you don’t use retinol—fresh skin needs protection.
- Pair with a ceramide-rich cream or hyaluronic acid serum to support hydration and barrier repair.
Why these steps matter:
1 % pure retinol is potent—it works by accelerating cell turnover and collagen production, but your skin needs time and hydration to adjust. These steps help deliver real results while minimising flaking, redness, or discomfort.