Does retinol cause cancer?

What are retinol's known risks?

Topical retinol, meaning retinol applied to skin, can cause dryness, redness, itching, burning and peeling. These side effects are usually temporary. Increased sensitivity to sunlight is a reason to use sun protection, not a diagnosis of cancer. These routine side effects alone cannot answer whether retinol has any direct cancer risk.1

Retinol is available without a prescription in many products, while other retinoids are prescription treatments. The skincare aisle offers plenty of retinol choices, which is not the same thing as offering a clear decision.3

Protect against the known cancer risk

Use a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher on uncovered skin, including on cloudy days. Broad spectrum protection covers both UVA and UVB radiation. Apply sunscreen generously and reapply at least every two hours, more often when swimming or sweating, following the label's directions.2

Also seek shade, wear protective clothing and limit time in direct sun, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. No sunscreen completely blocks ultraviolet radiation. A sunscreen label is worth reading, even if it is less entertaining than the promises on the front.2

How to start retinol

1. 1Test a little retinol on a small area of skin. Wait a couple of days and check for redness or itching before using it more widely.
2. 2At bedtime, wash with a gentle cleanser and pat your skin dry. Do not scrub.
3. 3Follow the product directions. General guidance is a pea sized amount spread thinly over the face, avoiding the eyes, nose and mouth.
4. 4Start every other night or once every few days rather than immediately using retinol daily.
5. 5Finish with a facial moisturizer labelled noncomedogenic, meaning formulated not to clog pores.

Who should be careful?

Do not use retinoids during pregnancy. If you have skin allergies, persistent dryness, or substantial redness or inflammation, ask a dermatologist about alternatives before starting. Irritation can trigger dark marks in darker skin, making a slow start and moisturizer especially useful. If you take medicines, ask your healthcare professional whether they also increase sun sensitivity.23