Retinol – 10 Things You Need to Know For Your Best Results

Retinol is one of the most talked-about skincare ingredients for good reason. This star ingredient is regularly featured in skincare expert tips for its ability to reduce visible signs of aging – think fewer fine lines and wrinkles. It is also a go-to ingredient when you’re looking to fade dark spots for a brighter and more even skin tone.

Retinol is a form of vitamin A that has been delivering clearer, smoother skin since its development in the 1950s. Today, there are so many different versions of retinol that you may be wondering how to choose the right one for your unique skincare goals. So, if you’re looking to get the best results from adding retinol into your skincare routine, these 10 expert skincare tips will help put you on the path to success.

Expert Skincare Tip #1 – Retinoid or Retinol?

The terms retinoid and retinol are often used interchangeably, but they’re not the same. Here’s how to tell the difference between retinoids and retinols:

▪️Retinoid is the umbrella term for all vitamin A derivatives – this includes prescription-strength options like tretinoin and adapalene, as well as over-the-counter forms like retinol.

▪️Retinol is the gentler, widely accessible version – you’ll find retinol in many skincare products. Unlike retinoids, retinol needs to be converted into its active form (retinoic acid) through contact with your skin, which means it's slower-acting but less likely to cause irritation.

So now you know the difference, how do you decide which type of retinol is right for you? If you're just starting out or have sensitive skin, a retinol can be a good choice because it’s gentler and easier to introduce into your routine. But if you’re dealing with skin concerns like severe acne, your dermatologist might recommend a stronger prescription retinoid.

Expert Skincare Tip #2 – Is Encapsulated Retinol Best for You?

One of the newest developments in retinol is encapsulated retinol. This advanced option is a form of retinol that’s been encased in a protective coating – often made of moisturizing lipids – to create a time-release delivery system. Retinol Synergist contains encapsulated retinol – a more stable retinol, more effective, less irritating, and able to deliver its powerful active ingredient deeper into your skin layers.

You can think about encapsulated retinol as an advanced, targeted delivery system, placing your skincare active at the exact right place at the gentlest pace, for your best results. Mother Science 0.3% Retinol Synergist combines the power of encapsulated retinol with their patented molecule Malassezin for even better results with even less sensitivity.

Retinol Synergist

Expert Skincare Tip #3 – How to Avoid Retinol Making Your Skin Worse 

You may have heard horror stories of the “retinol purge” where users experience breakouts, flaking, and redness. Also called retinization, this process is a result of retinol acting on your skin to speed up cell turnover. Faster cell turnover means pore-clogging gunk can come to the surface faster, initially making it look like your skin is getting worse, not better.

Here’s how to reduce the side effects of retinol:

✔️ Use encapsulated retinol to reduce sensitivity

✔️ Start by using retinol 2x a week and build up slowly

✔️ Support your skin barrier with moisture

The good news? The retinization phase can be significantly reduced by using time-release formulations like Retinol Synergist, which release retinol slowly for less irritation. And always build up use slowly – once your skin adjusts, you'll begin to see the real benefits.

Related: the best skincare routine for sensitive skin, according to science. 

Expert Skincare Tip #4 – Start Slow

If you are just starting out on your retinol journey, skincare experts recommend starting with a low concentration of retinol – between 0.25% and 0.5%. Mother Science Retinol Synergist is 0.3% but because it is encapsulated, it is easier on sensitive skin and well-tolerated by beginners. Always start slow, beginning with applying retinol to clean skin 2x a week and building up as tolerated.

Expert Skincare Tip #5 – Using Retinol? Don’t Skip the Sunscreen

All skincare experts agree on this – when you are using retinol, you need to use a high sun protection factor (SPF) sunscreen daily. That’s because retinol increases your skin’s sensitivity to the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Dermatologists recommend using an SPF of at least 30, even on cloudy days.

Expert Skincare Tip #6 – Support Your Skin’s Natural Protective Barrier

Your skin has its own natural defensive layer that works hard to keep pollution and bacteria out and keep moisture in. With strong retinoid use, or too frequent use of retinols that are not encapsulated, you can experience dry, red, or flaking skin. These are all signs of a damaged skin barrier.

If your retinol routine is giving you dry, dull skin, you’re not alone. One of the most common side effects of retinol, especially when you’re starting out, is dryness. As retinol speeds up cell turnover, it can also disrupt your skin’s natural barrier, leaving it feeling tight, flaky, or irritated. That’s why we recommend combining retinol use with a barrier repair moisturizer like Molecular Genesis Barrier Repair.

Molecular Genesis Barrier Repair Moisturizer

Expert Skincare Tip #7 – Try The “Retinol Sandwich” Method

If your skin is exceptionally sensitive or dry, then retinol can be a challenge. One solution can be to try the layering tactic known as the “retinol sandwich” to reduce the risk of irritation and keep your skin barrier happy. 

The “sandwich method” is an effective buffering technique that’s perfect for beginners or those with sensitive skin. We get it, you want results, and you want them fast, but remember that retinol works best when your skin barrier is well-hydrated, supported, and not overwhelmed. So, think of your moisturizer as your retinol’s best friend – never use one without the other.

Expert Skincare Tip #8 – Not All Skin Types React to Retinol the Same Way

People with sensitive, dry, or rosacea-prone skin need to be extra cautious when using any skincare actives. Always make sure to use a patch test – apply a small amount to your wrist and wait 24 hours – to check for any strong reactions. You may also benefit from layering strategies like the “retinol sandwich” described above.

Expert Skincare Tip #9 – Retinol Doesn’t Work Overnight — Be Patient

Retinol is a skincare superstar for a reason, but you won’t see your best results overnight. Use a good quality encapsulated retinol and your patience will be rewarded with a reduction in the appearance of dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles in as little as four weeks. 

Remember, when it comes to retinol, consistency is more important than intensity and that you will see more and more benefits over time.

Molecular Discovery Set

Retinol Synergist

Molecular Genesis Barrier Repair Moisturizer

Expert Skincare Tip #10 – Pair Your Retinol With the Right Products

Retinol is a powerful skin active. If you pair it with the right skin-supporting products, you will get better results and happier skin. 

Here are the dos and don'ts of combining retinol with other skincare products:

✔️DO pair retinol with:

✔️ Gentle cleansers (non-foaming, non-stripping)

✔️ Hydrating serums (like hyaluronic acid)

✔️ Barrier-repair moisturizers (with lipids or peptides)

✖️AVOID combining retinol with:

✖️Strong exfoliants (AHAs/BHAs)

✖️Vitamin C (can be too acidic and irritating when used together)

✖️Grainy scrubs (can be rough on your skin)

If you like to use exfoliants or vitamin C in your skincare routine, then try using them in the mornings or on alternate days. Retinol should only be used at night, and is ideally paired with skin barrier supporting ingredients like Malassezin (included in Retinol Synergist) and barrier repair moisturizers like Molecular Genesis Barrier Repair cream.

The Best Way to Use Retinol – According to Science

We believe that good science is key to having great skin. That’s why Mother Science strives to make revolutionary products validated by science and clinical trials.

Consistent use delivers the best results from Mother Science Products. That’s why we offer discounted bundles and 10% off all subscription orders. We want the very best for you and your skin.

We believe in our products, and we’re confident that you will love them too, but if you’re not completely satisfied, we offer free returns within 30 days of receiving your products.

Questions? Take a look at our FAQ page or reach out to us at hello@motherscience.com.