Why is my skin flaky after starting retinol?

How do I stop retinol dryness and flaking?

For mild flaking, make the routine gentler instead of scrubbing the flakes away. These steps are for over the counter retinol; prescription tretinoin has its own directions.3

1. 1Use retinol at night every other night to start, then increase frequency slowly if your skin tolerates it. Every other night is a sensible schedule, and your skin does not award points for nightly attendance.
2. 2Cleanse gently and pat your skin dry. Apply a thin layer of retinol according to the package directions.
3. 3Finish with moisturizer. If retinol irritates your skin, applying a thin layer of moisturizer first can help buffer it.
4. 4Wear sunscreen during the day because retinoids can make skin more sensitive to sunlight.

Leave out scrubs and chemical exfoliants while you are flaky; exfoliating while using retinol can worsen dry skin. Retinol already does the exfoliating, so a scrub joining in is a second manager for one small job. After washing, use a fragrance free moisturizing cream or ointment, and choose warm rather than hot water. Let flakes shed naturally instead of picking or pulling them, which can open the skin to bacteria.256

Should I use retinol on peeling skin?

If the flaking is mild, reduce how often you apply retinol and moisturize rather than trying to smooth the skin by force. Do not peel loose skin off. If the area is raw, painful, swollen, or blistered, contact a clinician for advice about what to do next, especially if you use prescription tretinoin.236

How long does retinol peeling last?

Retinol related irritation is usually temporary and eases as your skin adjusts; there is no set number of days to expect. Visible changes can take several weeks, so the time it takes to see results is not a countdown for the flakes.2

Who should be careful with retinol?

Sensitive skin or skin allergies can make retinoids a poor fit. If you choose to try one, start slowly and use moisturizer. Irritation can leave dark marks, particularly on darker skin, so pay attention to new discoloration and ease back if it appears. Choose the lowest retinol formulation you can find; over the counter labels are not required to disclose the percentage. Do not use retinoids during pregnancy.4

When should I contact a doctor?

For prescription tretinoin, contact your doctor if dryness, peeling, or other side effects are severe or do not go away. Pain, blistering, swelling, or a rash also need prompt medical advice. Seek care for unexplained peeling or peeling with fever or chills.36