How to Use Retinol If You Have Sensitive Skin

We all know retinol is the ultimate anti-aging ingredient. It’s the glow factor we can’t get enough of—it smooths fine lines and texture, prevents blemishes, and reduces dark spots.

1 Essentially, it makes skin look young again. But like many glow factors, it’s not for everyone, and some people find it annoying.

Retinol can cause sensitivity, redness, and peeling, and for those with sensitive skin, these side effects can sometimes be unbearable.

Retinol is only effective if used regularly. However, there are ways to incorporate this star ingredient into even the most sensitive skin-care routines.

The ingredient that makes retinol tolerable

More and more manufacturers are using niacinamide (a form of vitamin B3) in their retinol products, like Dr. Sam Bunting, who adds it to her Perfect Night Serum ($48), which contains both retinol and niacinamide.

“Niacinamide has two beneficial effects. It promotes the production of ceramides, which are an important part of the structure of the epidermis, making the skin stronger and more resistant to irritation,” she explains.

“It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can minimize the effects of retinoid treatments, which can trigger the release of inflammatory mediators in the skin.”

In strong, healthy skin, there will be peeling caused by retinol (a good sign of its effectiveness), but without the negative consequences of irritation.

More tips for using retinol on sensitive skin

In addition to using retinol products with niacinamide, Dr. Bunting offers the following advice:

Prepare your skin: While you can buffer the application of retinol with a layer of niacinamide-rich moisturizer, if your skin is very sensitive, you should take some time to prep your complexion before applying retinol.

“Topical application of ceramides and niacinamide can prepare the skin for the use of retinoids,” explains Dr. Bunting.

“You should also make sure to remove any irritants to make room for the retinoid—so avoid foaming cleansers, avoid acid toners, and minimize the use of exfoliants.”

Start slowly and evenly: If you have sensitive skin, it’s important to use retinol with caution. “For sensitive skin, I start with a slow and steady routine,” she says.

“I estimate how much product to use, so I always start with a pea-sized amount and use the 13-dot technique to ensure even distribution.”

Apply multiple times! “I also recommend buffering the retinol with a moisturizer,” advises Dr. Bunting. “Apply the retinol every other night at first, and then increase the amount over weeks, not months.”

Pause and re-prep: You’ll know you’ve used too much retinol when your skin becomes red, dry, and flaky. “You’ll also find that other products burn, too,” she adds.

“That’s a sign it’s time to stop using it, repair your skin barrier, and start again at a lower intensity when your skin is back to normal.”

For more, see Dr. Sam Bunting’s video on retinoids below. Keep scrolling to see our picks for the best niacinamide and retinol combos, as well as some niacinamide products if you already use retinol and need niacinamide to soothe your skin.

Dr. Sam’s Perfect Night Serum

Dr. Sam Bunting created this night serum with retinol, bakuchiol, redness-removing azelaic acid, and soothing niacinamide. It’s a great all-rounder.

Verso Retinol Day Cream 8

Formulated specifically for sensitive skin, this cream contains a high dose of niacinamide and slower-acting retinyl retinyl retinoic acid, which is proven to be particularly suitable for sensitive skin. 3

QRxLabs Niacinamide + Retinol Serum

Do you prefer a serum or are you on a budget? In addition to niacinamide and retinol, this serum also contains soothing ingredients such as aloe vera, vitamin E, jojoba oil, and hyaluronic acid.

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

Developed specifically for acne-prone skin (niacinamide prevents spots4, while zinc regulates sebum production). It can also strengthen your skin before retinol, or can be used as a protective layer before retinol.

SKIN INC Ceramide Serum Replenishing Stick

This lightweight serum fights unwanted redness caused by retinol while strengthening the skin’s protective barrier.

Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster

Add this booster to your daily moisturizer before using retinol to strengthen your sensitive skin, or combine it with retinol to help your complexion handle it better.