How do I stop my face peeling after retinol?

What to change while your face is peeling

1. 1Wash with a mild face cleanser, then leave the flakes alone. Do not rub, scrub, or add another facial exfoliant. Retinol already encourages exfoliation, so a scrub is a redundant coworker.
2. 2Apply a simple face moisturizer after washing, ideally within five minutes. Use it again when your skin feels dry; moisturizing several times a day can help. A plain moisturizer is not an unfinished routine; the skincare aisle has supplied enough plot.
3. 3When your skin is comfortable, apply retinol at bedtime in a thin layer about the size of a pea over your face. Avoid your eyes, nose, and mouth. Start every other night, and leave more time between uses if peeling returns.
4. 4If you use a prescription retinoid, follow your prescriber's directions. Ask your dermatologist before changing how much or how often you use it.
5. 5Use sunscreen every day while using retinol, since it makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Choose broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

What to expect and when to get help

Redness and peeling are known retinol side effects, and excessive use can make them worse. Visible improvement takes several weeks, so peeling is not a reason to apply more. If your skin remains irritated after you use retinol less often, ask a healthcare professional for advice.14

Sensitive skin is more prone to irritation, especially when you first start retinol or use a stronger concentration. If you are pregnant, talk with a healthcare professional before using topical retinol. Get help if itching interferes with daily activities or the irritation is not improving.346

Should I moisturize before retinol?

Yes, especially if retinol tends to irritate your skin. After cleansing, apply a thin layer of moisturizer first, then retinol, then another layer of moisturizer. On a typical night, the order is cleanser, retinol, moisturizer; putting moisturizer first is an option to reduce irritation.2

How often should I use retinol if my skin is peeling?

Use it less often, not more often. Start with every other night; if peeling returns, leave additional nights between applications and keep the amount small. If the retinoid is prescribed, make changes to its amount or schedule only with your dermatologist's guidance.5

Can I use retinol on irritated skin?

Skip the next application while your skin is visibly irritated. Retinoids can irritate skin, and excessive use can cause redness and peeling. Keep cleansing gentle and moisturize while the irritation settles; contact a healthcare professional if it does not improve or interferes with daily activities.13