Retinol Burn: Proper Use, Treatment, Prevention, & When to Stop Using
Skincare products designed to rejuvenate and revitalize the skin are some of the most sought-after items on the market today. From serums to creams, they’re a go-to for many people looking to achieve smooth, glowing skin. The skincare market continues to grow, worth over $135.83 billion in 2022, as more people focus on keeping their skin healthy and youthful.
While these products can work wonders, using them the right way is key to avoiding problems. One popular ingredient, retinol, is known to work wonders on skin. But if you don’t use it properly, you might experience something called retinol burn. Don’t be alarmed—this reaction is common and can be prevented with the right approach.
Before you toss your tub of retinol into the “complicated products” pile, don’t worry—understanding how to use it properly and what to do if you experience irritation is easier than you think.
What Is Retinol, and How Should You Use It?
Retinol is a popular ingredient in skincare products and is part of the vitamin A family. It’s loved for its ability to smooth skin, fight acne, fade dark spots, and reduce wrinkles. Retinol works by speeding up how quickly your skin replaces old cells with fresh, healthy ones, which gives you a brighter and smoother complexion over time.
To use retinol properly, start slow. Pick a product with a low percentage, like 0.25% or 0.3%, and only apply it two or three times a week at night. Over time, as your skin adjusts, you can use it more often.
Remember, just a small amount (about the size of a pea) is enough for your entire face. Always follow it up with a moisturizer and don’t forget sunscreen during the day, as retinol makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight.
Is Retinol Supposed to Burn?
Many people feel some irritation when they first start using retinol, but it shouldn’t feel like a real “burn.” What you might experience is called retinol burn, and it happens when your skin is adjusting to the product. This isn’t an actual burn but more of a reaction to the strong effects of retinol. It’s common for people who are new to using retinol or who jump straight into using stronger products too quickly.
What Does Retinol Burn Look Like?
If you’re dealing with retinol burn, your skin might appear red, dry, or flaky. You could also notice it feels tight, itchy, or irritated, especially in more sensitive areas like the corners of your nose, eyelids, or near your mouth. The good news is that this reaction is temporary and usually clears up as your skin gets used to retinol.
Tips to Avoid Retinol Burn
The best way to avoid retinol burn is to go slow and be gentle with your skin. Start with a small amount and use it less often in the beginning. You can also apply your moisturizer first and then apply retinol on top—this is called buffering and can help reduce irritation. It’s also essential to wear sunscreen daily to protect your skin and avoid pairing retinol with other harsh ingredients, like strong exfoliants or acne treatments, when you’re starting out.
How to Treat Retinol Burn Quickly
If your skin is feeling irritated from retinol burn, don’t worry—it’s fixable! With a little extra care, you can help your skin heal and feel better soon.
1. Stop Using Retinol for Now
Pause using retinol to give your skin a chance to recover. Taking a short break, even just for a week or so, can help a lot.
2. Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize
Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer often to soothe your skin. Look for hydrating ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or aloe vera. They’re great for calming and repairing your skin.
3. Cool It Down
If your skin feels really irritated, try placing a cool, damp cloth on the area. It can help with redness and make your skin feel more comfortable.
4. Avoid Extra Harsh Products
Skip exfoliators, scrubs, or anything with strong ingredients like acids or vitamin C. For now, keep your routine simple and stick to gentle cleansers and moisturizers.
5. Protect Your Skin with Sunscreen
Even though you’ve stopped using retinol, your skin might still be sensitive to sunlight. Use a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect it, and try to stay out of the sun as much as possible.
Will Retinol Burn Go Away?
Yes, retinol burn is only temporary! It will fade as your skin heals and adjusts to retinol. This process usually doesn’t take too long, so don’t panic if your skin feels uncomfortable at first.
How Long Does Retinol Burn Last?
For most people, mild signs of retinol burn go away after a few days. If it’s more severe, it might take a week or two to fully recover. The key is giving your skin time to heal and avoiding anything that could make the irritation worse.
With some patience and gentle care, your skin will bounce back. Once it’s feeling better, you can gradually reintroduce retinol into your routine—slowly this time!
When Should You Stop Using Retinol?
While retinol can work wonders for your skin, it’s not the right fit for everyone. Some irritation at first is normal, but if you’re dealing with severe redness, peeling, or burning that doesn’t get better even after taking a break, it might be time to stop. If you notice swelling, pain, or signs of an allergic reaction like hives or itching, that’s your skin telling you it’s not happy.
It’s also okay to stop if retinol just feels too harsh or doesn’t work well with your daily routine. For example, if you find it hard to stick to using sunscreen (which is super important when using retinol), it might not be the best choice for you. The great thing about skincare is that you can always try other gentle options that are equally effective.
Retinol is a great skincare tool, but it’s important to listen to your skin. If it’s causing more harm than good, don’t hesitate to step back. Skincare should feel good, not uncomfortable. There are plenty of other ways to keep your skin healthy and glowing without stress!
