How to use retinol?

Can retinol really erase signs of aging, fade pigmentation, clear up acne, and give your skin that glow — is it a magical beauty remedy?

Is that true? Let’s figure it out. Be sure to watch this video till the end — I’ll explain how to use retinol correctly at home.

Myth one. Retinol causes addiction

That’s a myth. Just like Botox, retinol doesn’t cause physical dependence. It’s just that once you get used to your glowing face, you don’t want to go back to dull skin. It’s a psychological thing. If you stop using retinol, your skin will simply return to its regular renewal cycle, and that’s it.

Many people use it in courses. For example, if they have acne or pigmentation. Some use it continuously. Especially mature women — for anti-aging purposes. If you want to take a break and give your skin a rest, nothing bad will happen. Just do it gradually so your skin can adapt.

Myth two. Retinol is not allowed during pregnancy

That’s not a myth, it’s true. Retinol is not recommended during pregnancy. Especially when it comes to systemic retinoids — the ones taken orally. They are teratogenic, meaning they can pass through the placenta and affect the fetus. This can result in developmental abnormalities, and yes, that’s truly scary. Actually, if you're taking retinoids under medical supervision, I know there's even a recommendation: along with monthly blood tests, you should take a home pregnancy test regularly — just in case pregnancy begins unexpectedly.

Even with topical retinol in cream form, doctors advise being cautious: you shouldn’t use it when planning or during pregnancy. No risks, girls.

Myth three. Retinol thins the skin

That depends on the form of the retinoid. When taken orally for a long time, it really can cause dryness of the skin, nails, and mucous membranes. But topical retinol, when used correctly, does not thin the skin.

You might experience dryness and irritation if used improperly, but in that case you just need to let your skin rest and recover. Then start retinol again. So this myth is half true, half false.

Myth four. Retinol should not be used in summer

You can use it in summer. Especially if you have oily or acne-prone skin. I don’t recommend starting it in the summer — meaning, if you’re a beginner. But if your skin is already adapted, if you use SPF and don’t lie on the beach under the sun — everything will be fine.

If you’re planning a vacation in a hot climate or by the beach, just stop using retinol five days before intense sun exposure. Many people don’t stop at all — and everything turns out fine.

Why are people afraid to use retinol in summer? Because this ingredient increases your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, and if you stay out too long without protecting your face, there’s a risk of getting hyperpigmentation. But there’s a way to avoid that. Use SPF fifty and cover your face with hats, visors, or caps.

Myth five. Retinol should only be used after forty

No. Retinol is prescribed even to eighteen-year-olds — especially for acne. As an anti-aging product, it’s usually introduced later, around thirty. The most important thing is choosing the right product and having actual indications. Let’s talk about those.

What is retinol used for and when is it prescribed?

Retinol is all about renewal. It helps skin cells divide faster, which means the skin recovers faster and becomes smoother, fresher, and clearer.

Retinol is needed if you have: acne (especially closed comedones and inflammation), enlarged pores, oily skin, pigmentation, post-acne marks, wrinkles, uneven skin texture, dull and tired-looking complexion. Or if you want to prevent age-related changes after twenty-eight or thirty.

I want to share a case from our practice at Metodica Med Spa. How did retinol help reduce the number of porphyrins — which contribute to acne — by seven times? A client came to us complaining about breakouts, enlarged pores, and uneven skin tone. She wasn’t interested in machine-based treatments. We used retinol peels during her visits and prescribed retinol for home care. The result? In one month, the number of porphyrins — those yellow dots that signal bacterial activity — dropped by seven times! Pores got smaller, breakouts almost disappeared, and her skin became smooth and glowing. Her before and after photos speak for themselves.

If you’re also excited to try it, let me tell you how to properly add retinol to your routine. And this is where it’s super important to go slowly and follow my checklist. Otherwise, you might end up with irritated skin. And we don’t want that.

Step one. Start with a low concentration. For example, zero point twenty-five percent or zero point five percent. This is your skin’s adaptation phase.

Step two. For the first two weeks, apply retinol once every three days. Then — every other day. Only after that — daily, if your skin tolerates it well. If irritation appears — take a break, let your skin recover, and only then return to retinol, starting from the beginning.

Step three. Apply only to dry skin, and only in the evening. In the morning — SPF fifty is a must. You already know that skipping this can lead to pigmentation.

Step four. If you’re planning to use retinol, your routine must include a good restorative and moisturizing cream. For example, with ceramides, niacinamide, panthenol, squalane, or hyaluronic acid — they help restore the skin barrier and reduce irritation.

What to do if an allergy appears?

It’s rare, but it happens. Even with a minimal dose, you might get swelling, redness, or itching. In that case — stop using it. Retinol allergy cannot be treated.

When to expect results?

If you use retinol regularly, you’ll see results in four to six weeks. And you’ll definitely like what you see.

If you’ve never used retinol, you’re probably wondering what kind is good, how to choose it, and where to buy it.

There are retinol products you can find in stores like Target or Walmart, but they usually only work on the surface of the skin. Professional ones go deeper, especially the liposomal formulas. That’s why the effects are so different. Real wow-results come from professional skincare and individual selection.

You can order proven, effective retinol using the link in the description — it’s professional care from ZO Skin Health.

Choose based on your needs and experience:

Wrinkle plus Texture Repair — for aging skin  

Retinol Skin Brightener — to treat pigmentation and acne

There are different concentrations — from gentle to stronger. If you’re new to retinol, start with the mildest one.

And finally. Retinol isn’t scary. It’s about taking care of yourself. It really can transform your skin if used wisely. Don’t rush for fast results. Give yourself time. And you’ll love what you see.

If you still have questions — leave them in the comments. And if this video was helpful — give it a like, subscribe, and don’t forget to hit the bell.