Retinoids (vitamin A derivatives) are gold-standard for smoother texture, clearer pores and more even tone. But getting results without irritation depends on two things: the type you choose and how often you use it.
The secret isn’t “stronger = better”, it’s choosing the right type and using it the right number of nights—otherwise skin can turn dry, red and sensitive.

Who should skip or check first

• Pregnancy/breastfeeding: retinoids are generally not recommended—ask your doctor.
• Very reactive/compromised barrier: build comfort first, then re-introduce slowly.
• Eczema/rosacea flares: wait until skin is calm.

What not to mix (or use carefully)

• Avoid layering strong AHAs/BHAs, benzoyl peroxide, or scrubs on the same night. Alternate instead.
• Pause 5-10 days before and after in-clinic treatments (peels, microneedling, laser)
  

  Signs of overuse (and what to do)

  • Persistent burning/peeling, new sensitivity to usual products → Stop for 7–15 days, focus on hydrating and barrier-supporting care only, then re-start at a lower frequency or milder type.
  • Patch test new formulas on the jawline for 3 nights before full-face use.

Which retinoid is right for you?

• Retinol  – Widely used, effective, moderate strength. Needs conversion in the skin, so it’s gentler than prescription tretinoin. Good for most beginners.
• Retinal – One step closer to active form, usually faster results but also stronger than retinol. Choose if you’ve tolerated retinol well.
• Granactive retinoid / hydroxypinacolone retinoate (HPR) – Designed to be low-irritation with comparable benefits; nice option for sensitive or redness-prone skin.
• Bakuchiol – A plant-derived retinol alternative; helpful during retinol breaks or for very reactive skin. (Not a retinoid, but plays well in barrier-first routines.)

  In our Daily Support Oil we made the following combination: 

  • Complementary action Bakuchiol + Retinyl palmitate:
    • Bakuchiol: retinol-like benefits
    • Retinyl palmitate: a very gentle vitamin-A ester that converts slowly in skin (retinyl palmitate → retinol → retinal → retinoic acid), giving gradual smoothing/brightening.
  • Tolerance: Together they offer a maintenance vitamin-A approach that’s friendlier for sensitive or barrier-compromised skin than stronger retinoids.

  

The “Retinol Sandwich” (to protect your barrier)

1. Cleanse, pat dry.
2. Apply a hydrating layer (mist/serum).
3. Pea-size retinol for the whole face (avoid eyelids/lips, unless product says otherwise).
4. Finish with a comforting moisturizer. Always use Retinol in your evening routine.

 Our Favourite Products

We love:

• Endocare Retinol Serum (evening): a results-led retinoid for those ready to commit to a steady routine.
• AZRA Daily Support Oil (AM/PM): our calming oil with bakuchiol and retinyl palmitate—two barrier-friendly vitamin-A allies that support tone and texture while keeping the skin comfortable. Use on its own or on “buffer nights” between stronger retinoid days.