WHAT RETINOL DOSE SHOULD I USE?
There’s a pure retinol formula for every skin goal, with each containing varied strengths. Serums and creams which contain this superhero skincare ingredient are highly efficacious no matter the percentage used, but micro dose retinol and high dose retinol do have different effects on skin.
Determining how much retinol to use will depend on a few factors. Your skin sensitivity levels, how experienced you are with the ingredient and the concerns you have – like anti-ageing, breakouts, or dullness – all play into the right retinol dosage for skin.
It is important to select the right concentration before you start use. Because of its potency, retinol heightens skin sensitivity, often causing side effects – termed ‘retinol uglies’ – in the initial weeks. The wrong dosage may impact the effectiveness of the product or side effects. To see whether 0.1 or 0.3 retinol is right for you, we’ve compiled a simplified breakdown for beginner pure retinol application.
The benefits of pure retinol serum
Retinol serums are high-quality steps in skincare routines. Commonly divided into either night-time or morning formulas, a pure retinol serum accelerates skin renewal, surfacing stronger, younger, and brighter skin. This is great for complexions in a few different ways. Visible effects on skin achieved by both high and low dose retinol include:
For those wondering ‘what retinol should I start with?’, the depth of these concerns is something to consider. To help reduce the onset of early ageing for example, a micro dose retinol is a gentle and steady option. If you have deep-set wrinkles and lines already apparent, a higher retinol dosage for skin may be the right choice.
Choosing retinol dosage for skin
All pure retinol serum, whether low or high dose, should be introduced to skincare routines gradually. When starting a retinol routine, it’s recommended to opt for a low dose retinol to begin. This is because, unlike purely hydrating or exfoliating ingredients, retinol interacts with skin at a cellular level. Skin can become accustomed to increased cellular turnover, but this does take time. Increasing 0.1 retinol to 0.3 retinol and beyond is common – so always consider usage as a gradual journey.
Which retinol should I use?
As opposed to prescription retinoids like tretinoin, pure retinol can be purchased and applied easily and quickly. For radiantly renewed skin and long-term results, see which of the range of Kiehl’s plant powered retinol to choose.
Low dose retinol
Micro dose or low dose retinol products are those which contain between 0.1% and 0.3%. Optimal for first time use and for those with highly dry or sensitive skin, this retinol dosage for skin still has highly beneficial and visible benefits. Using micro dose retinol also allows you to apply the product daily, shortening the wait time between applications.
Retinol Skin-Renewing Daily Micro-Dose Serum
A potent, low dose pure retinol serum suitable for continuous daily use. Used to target signs of ageing and improve skin texture by decreasing pore size, the formulas deliver visible retinol benefits in controlled dosages. The inclusion of peptides and ceramides helps to promotes a strong skin barrier. Perfect for beginners and those with sensitive skin, 100% percent of users showed wrinkle reduction with consistent use1.
High dose retinol
High dose retinol products are those that contain concentrations between 0.3% and 1.0%. These dosages provide quick results, but their strength means that they’re recommended for those who have experience with pure retinol. The frequency at which a 0.3 retinol can be applied is slower than lighter forms – but once skin adjusts to it, they can usually be applied daily. For those with deeper skin concerns, we suggest this strength of pure retinol serum.
Retinol Fast Release Wrinkle-Reducing Night Serum
A powerful, night-time serum designed for wrinkles, fine lines, and visibly youthful skin. Penetrating up to 15 layers of skin, this serum accelerates skin renewal and decreases the appearance of fine lines in just 5 days. Deeper-set wrinkles are reduced in 2 weeks, with correct usage.
What to pair with pure retinol serum
Alongside how much retinol to use, what you pair it with matters. Because all concentrations dry skin out, your moisture intake should increase. This can be achieved either by applying a thicker-textured moisturiser than usual, or by layering a pure retinol serum between creams. Also beneficial are nourishing and gentle ingredients like niacinamide or panthenol found in cleansers and serums. These nutrients support skin barrier strength and support comfort across skin. Finally, one of the most important pairings with pure retinol is sunscreen. Sensitivity to UV radiation increases through retinol use, so applying optimal sun protection ensures your complexion is protected against further skin stress.
Loved this guide? Keep reading to discover other treatments for enlarged pores.
SHOP THE SELECTION
Skin-Renewing Daily Micro-Dose Retinol Serum
The Kiehl's Skin-Renewing Retinol Serum is a potent retinol face serum that targets the visible signs of ageing skin. After continuous use, Kiehl's anti-ageing retinol serum visibly reduces the appearence of wrinkles, firms skin and refines the feeling of skin’s texture. Formulated with peptides, ceramides and retinol, this daily retinol serum is suitable for all skin types, making it the perfect retinol serum for sensitive skin and beginners
Retinol Fast Release Wrinkle-Reducing Night Serum
The Pure Retinol Night Serum is a powerful Retinol serum for wrinkles and fine lines that helps accelerate skin surface cell renewal. Formulated with one of our highest concentrates of Retinol, this Retinol night serum visibly improve fine lines, wrinkles and deep wrinkles for smoother and more youthful looking skin.
Ultra Facial Cream with Squalane
Our number one squalane moisturiser for ultra-lightweight, 24-hour hydration. The perfect daily moisturiser for all skin types, including sensitive. Help recover the skin barrier, and leave your skin softer, smoother and healthier with the Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream. Paraben-free and fragrance-free.
