Who Should Avoid Retinol
Retinol is a popular skincare ingredient that fights wrinkles and improves skin texture, but it is not for everyone. Certain people face higher risks of irritation, dryness, or other issues, so they should skip it or talk to a doctor first.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women top the list. Medical experts advise against using retinol during pregnancy and breastfeeding because it may pose risks to the baby. Instead, they can try safer options like vitamin C or niacinamide.
Those with very sensitive skin often struggle with retinol too. It can cause redness, peeling, flaking, burning, or raw skin, especially at the start. People new to it might see these effects for two to four weeks as skin adjusts, but if symptoms get worse, it is best to stop.
Kids and teenagers usually do not need retinol. Their skin stays strong and bouncy without much sun damage yet, so stronger ingredients like this are not worth the risk.
Avoid putting retinol near the eyes or eyelids. Even low strengths can lead to big irritation there, no matter how careful you are.
People with very dry skin should be cautious. Retinol weakens the skin barrier early on, making dryness hit harder if you apply it without enough moisture underneath.
If your skin reacts badly to other strong actives like acids or benzoyl peroxide, retinol might overload it too. It ramps up sun sensitivity, so skipping sunscreen makes problems worse.
In these cases, gentler choices like bakuchiol or retinaldehyde work better for sensitive types. Always patch test new products and start slow if you try retinol anyway.
Sources
https://www.agelockskinclinics.com/blog/how-to-use-retinol-for-beginners/
https://www.theinkeylist.com/blogs/news/best-retinol-for-beginners
https://www.ascpskincare.com/updates/blog-posts/can-you-eat-your-retinol
https://mugguskincare.com/blogs/news/retinol-mistakes-to-avoid-tips-for-younger-looking-skin
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gt7i2PnXvXk
https://photozyme.com/blogs/news/what-age-should-you-start-using-retinol
https://www.stylist.co.uk/beauty/skincare/retinol-sandwich-method/1047209
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X1yo8TwRu3Y
