Can I use retinol during a heatwave?

What sun protection do I need?

Use a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, and reapply every two hours when outdoors. Cover exposed skin with sunscreen, seek shade and wear protective clothing, including a wide brimmed hat. Nighttime retinol does not replace daytime sun protection. If your skin is sensitive, a sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide is an option.23

How should I apply retinol?

Before starting a new retinol product, test a small amount on a small area of skin. Wait a couple of days; if the area becomes very red or itchy, do not add the product to your routine. Otherwise, use the package instructions, with this general bedtime sequence:4

1. 1Wash with a gentle cleanser, without scrubbing, and pat your skin dry.
2. 2Apply a thin layer of retinol, about a pea sized amount for the whole face. Keep it away from your eyes, mouth and nose.
3. 3Finish with a facial moisturizer labelled noncomedogenic, meaning it is formulated not to clog pores.

A lighter moisturizer can suit summer better than a rich one, so the winter jar does not need a loyalty ceremony. Keep the moisturizer step when using retinol to help limit irritation. For dry or irritated skin, choose a gentle cleanser without soap or fragrance, and use warm rather than hot water.235

Should I use retinol less often?

There is no automatic summer reduction: let tolerance guide your schedule. If you are starting retinol, choose a low strength and begin every other night, or once every few days if needed. Build up slowly rather than jumping to nightly use. Visible improvement takes several weeks, and changes in wrinkles or dark spots can take months. Increasing application frequency quickly can cause irritation rather than quicker progress.124

When should I stop or get advice?

Retinol can cause dryness, redness, peeling, itching or burning. If products start stinging or your skin becomes tender, simplify your routine and step back from irritating treatments while focusing on gentle cleansing and moisturizer. These symptoms can signal a stressed skin barrier, the outer layer that keeps water in and harmful substances out. See a dermatologist if your skin keeps worsening or is not improving.345

Do not use retinoids during pregnancy. Skin allergies, substantial dryness or persistent redness warrant advice before using retinol. In darker skin tones, irritation can trigger dark marks, so starting slowly and moisturizing are especially useful precautions.2

Should I change how often I exfoliate in humid weather?

Humidity alone is not a reason to exfoliate more often. Base frequency on your skin type, the method and your tolerance. Retinol already exfoliates skin, and adding exfoliation can worsen dryness or cause breakouts. More aggressive exfoliation needs less frequent use; too much can cause sensitivity and irritation.467

Never exfoliate sunburned skin or areas with open cuts or wounds. If you choose to exfoliate, be gentle and moisturize afterwards. Avoid strong chemical exfoliants or scrubs if you develop dark marks after irritation, particularly with darker skin tones.6