Tretinoin is one of the most thoroughly researched ingredients in skincare and remains the gold standard for improving skin texture, pigmentation, acne, and the visible signs of ageing. The key to success is consistency rather than using too much, too soon.

Introducing tretinoin gradually allows your skin time to adapt while reducing unnecessary irritation.

A gradual introduction

Week 1

• Apply twice during the week, leaving three nights between applications.
• For example: Tuesday and Saturday, or Wednesday and Sunday.

Week 2

• Continue with two applications during the week.

Week 3

• Increase to three nights during the week.
• For example: Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.

Week 4

• Continue using it three nights during the week.

Week 5 onwards

• Gradually increase to between four and seven nights each week, depending on how comfortably your skin tolerates it.
• Most people achieve excellent long-term results using tretinoin four to five nights each week.

Once your skin has comfortably adapted, you may also begin applying a very small amount closer to the eye area if advised, avoiding direct contact with the eyelids and eyes.

How to apply tretinoin

• Cleanse your skin using a gentle cleanser.
• Allow your skin to dry completely before application.
• Apply a pea-sized amount for the face, or approximately one and a half pea-sized amounts for the face, neck and décolleté. Only a very thin film is needed.
• Wait a few minutes before applying your moisturiser.
• Avoid the corners of the eyes, nose and lips while your skin is adapting.

Using more product will not produce faster results. A small amount applied consistently is far more effective.

What is normal during the first few weeks?

As your skin adjusts, it is completely normal to notice temporary changes such as:

• Mild redness
• Dryness
• Tightness
• Mild flaking or peeling
• Increased sensitivity

These effects usually improve significantly over the first four to six weeks as your skin becomes accustomed to tretinoin.

If you are prone to acne or breakouts, you may also experience temporary skin purging during the first four to six weeks. This occurs because tretinoin accelerates skin cell turnover, bringing existing microcomedones to the surface more quickly. Purging is temporary and should gradually settle with continued use.

Keep your routine simple

During the first few weeks, your skin does not need additional active ingredients.

Instead, focus on:

• A gentle cleanser
• A nourishing moisturiser
• Daily SPF 50 sunscreen
• Your prescribed tretinoin

Using multiple active products at the same time often increases irritation without improving results.

Moisturise generously

A good moisturiser is one of the best ways to reduce dryness and sensitivity while your skin adapts.

Do not hesitate to apply moisturiser as often as your skin needs it during the first few weeks.

Protect your skin every day

Daily broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen is essential while using tretinoin.

Although tretinoin itself does not permanently make your skin thinner, ultraviolet exposure remains the primary cause of premature skin ageing and pigmentation. Consistent sun protection allows you to achieve the full benefits of treatment.

If your skin feels too sensitive

If irritation becomes uncomfortable, reduce your tretinoin use for a night or two before restarting.

You can also try one of these techniques.

The dilution method

Mix equal amounts of tretinoin and moisturiser in your hand before applying. Finish with another layer of moisturiser if needed.

The sandwich method

Apply moisturiser first, followed by tretinoin, then finish with another layer of moisturiser.

Both methods can make the adjustment period more comfortable without significantly affecting long-term results.

Before microneedling or skin peels

Please stop using tretinoin three nights before your microneedling or skin peel appointment.

You can usually restart it once your skin has recovered and I advise that it is appropriate to do so.

A final note

Tretinoin is a long-term treatment rather than a quick fix. The greatest improvements are seen with regular use over many months and years. Introducing it gradually, protecting your skin with daily sunscreen, and maintaining a simple skincare routine will give your skin the best opportunity to achieve healthy, lasting results.

This article provides general educational information and is not intended to replace individual medical advice.