6 Occasions When We Encourage You to Stop Using Retinal
Retinal has surged in popularity among skincare enthusiasts and professionals alike. This powerful vitamin A derivative offers numerous benefits, including skin renewal, reduced fine lines, and a radiant glow.
However, its potency means it must be used thoughtfully. Knowing when to pause retinal use can be just as important as knowing how to apply it.
Overusing or applying it under certain conditions can harm your skin barrier and delay progress.
Here, we explore six specific situations where stepping back from retinal temporarily is wise for your skin’s health and long-term results.
This guide will help you listen to your skin, avoid setbacks, and continue your journey to glowing, resilient skin.
1. When You’re Experiencing Irritation
Retinal can cause irritation, especially when first introduced. Mild redness, dryness, and peeling (known as “purging”) often occur as your skin adapts to the active speeding up cell turnover.
This process is usually temporary.
However, intense stinging, burning, or persistent severe irritation indicates your skin barrier is struggling. This isn’t the normal adjustment phase but a warning that you need to slow down.
When irritation spikes, reduce application frequency to once a week or stop entirely until your skin calms. Continuing to push through may cause more harm, including increased sensitivity and barrier damage.
Consistency at a lower frequency still provides benefits, including subtle radiance and gradual improvement without stress. After your skin strengthens, slowly increase usage to find your ideal routine.
For sensitive skin types, try the “sandwich method.” Apply a nourishing moisturizer before and after retinal to cushion your skin.
This technique reduces irritation and supports barrier repair, making it easier to build tolerance over time.
If irritation persists despite these adjustments, it might be worth consulting a dermatologist. They can recommend products tailored to your skin type or suggest alternative ingredients.
Remember: patience pays off. Skipping a day or two to soothe your skin isn’t a setback but a smart move to achieve long-term success.
2. When You’re Sunburnt
We cannot stress enough the importance of daily sun protection. SPF is your retinal’s best friend, shielding delicate new skin from UV damage and preventing pigmentation and premature aging.
Despite precautions, sunburn can happen. If your skin is visibly red, hot, or peeling, it’s critical to stop retinal immediately.
Using retinal on sunburned skin worsens inflammation, increases redness, and prolongs healing by damaging your already fragile barrier. This can set you back weeks.
Focus on soothing, hydrating ingredients that repair your skin. Aloe vera, niacinamide, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid are excellent choices.
Avoid exfoliating acids or other potent actives during this recovery phase. Let your skin rest and rebuild naturally.
Only reintroduce retinal once all redness, flaking, and discomfort have completely resolved. This healing period often takes at least a week but varies based on burn severity.
Remember, prevention is the best cure. Always apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, reapply throughout the day, and wear hats or protective clothing when spending time outdoors.
3. When You’ve Booked a Facial
Facials can be deeply relaxing and effective, but they often involve exfoliating treatments that can sensitize your skin.
To avoid discomfort or prolonged inflammation, stop retinal use at least a week before your facial appointment.
If you have been using retinal recently, inform your facialist. This helps them customize your treatment, possibly avoiding harsh peels or waxing that could irritate your skin.
After a facial, expect a focus on hydration and calming products to soothe any sensitivity caused by extractions or exfoliation.
Skipping retinal around facials prevents over-exfoliation and inflammation, making your skin more comfortable and enhancing your results.
This pause also helps protect your skin barrier and maintains a balanced environment for healthy skin renewal.
4. When You Have a Brow or Lip Wax, or Laser Treatment Planned
Retinal accelerates cell turnover, revealing fresh, new skin underneath. While this new skin looks radiant, it is also more delicate and vulnerable.
Using retinal before waxing or laser treatments increases your risk of irritation, redness, and skin tearing during or after treatment.
Similarly, applying retinal too soon post-treatment can cause a burning sensation and prolong recovery because of open follicles or compromised skin.
To avoid these issues, stop retinal use at least a few days before and after your waxing or laser appointments.
Give your skin the time it needs to calm and heal before resuming strong actives.
This practice ensures your treatments are comfortable and safe while protecting your skin’s barrier integrity.
5. When You’ve Just Had Skin Needling
Skin needling (microneedling) stimulates collagen by creating tiny punctures in the skin, triggering a repair process that improves texture and firmness.
Immediately after treatment, expect redness, swelling, warmth, and mild sensitivity for a few days.
Dryness and flaking follow within 3 to 5 days as your skin regenerates, signaling your barrier is temporarily compromised.
Introducing retinal during this vulnerable window will prolong inflammation and irritation, hindering recovery.
Most clinicians recommend pausing all strong actives, including retinal, until your skin is fully healed.
Always follow your dermal clinician’s advice closely. They might suggest waiting 7 to 10 days or longer depending on your skin’s response.
Patience after skin needling results in better outcomes and healthier skin.
6. When You’re Pregnant or Breastfeeding
Retinoids, including retinal, are generally contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential risks to fetal development.
Vitamin A derivatives influence cell differentiation and organ formation in utero, so high doses may cause developmental issues.
Because of this, experts recommend avoiding retinal and all retinoids during pregnancy and nursing.
Instead, opt for gentle, safe alternatives such as peptides, antioxidants, and hydrating ingredients.
Always consult your healthcare provider or dermatologist for guidance tailored to your specific needs.
Balancing your skincare routine with your baby’s safety is essential.
And congratulations! Pregnancy is a special time where your skincare priorities shift to protect both you and your little one.
Why Retinal Deserves Respect — And When to Listen to Your Skin
Retinal is a powerhouse ingredient beloved for its ability to transform skin. But with power comes responsibility.
Strong actives require a thoughtful approach. Ignoring your skin’s signals can cause setbacks like irritation, barrier damage, and even long-term sensitivity.
By understanding the six moments to pause retinal, you protect your skin’s health and ensure consistent, glowing results over time.
Good skincare isn’t about pushing hard every day. It’s about listening, adapting, and caring for your skin’s unique needs.
Bonus Tips for Retinal Success
Start Slow: Introduce retinal gradually—one or two nights a week—and build frequency as tolerated.
Use Sunscreen Religiously: UV protection is essential to protect your skin from damage and pigment issues.
Moisturize Generously: A strong barrier is your best defense against irritation.
Avoid Mixing Actives: Don’t combine retinal with exfoliating acids, vitamin C, or benzoyl peroxide unless your skin can handle it.
Take Breaks: If your skin feels compromised, pause use to prevent longer healing times.
Consult a Professional: For personalized advice, especially if you have sensitive skin or are undergoing treatments.
By following these guidelines and recognizing when to pause, retinal can remain your skin’s best friend.
