It's true that using retinol on your hair and scalp can potentially result in some unwanted side effects. Ironically, the most serious side effect of retinol that was reported on several years ago was actually hair loss.
Currently, there seems to be no scientific or clinical evidence showing that a topically-applied retinol/retinal/retinoid can cause hair loss, at least when used as recommended or as prescribed.
This retinoid-associated alopecia is dose-dependent and hair loss is reversible after significant reduction of retinoid dose or cessation of the systemic therapy (Gupta et al., 1989; Murray et al., 1991; Berth-Jones and Hutchinson, 1995; Katz et al., 1999).
Retinol is effective in boosting hair growth and reducing hair loss due to its rebalancing, decongesting and stimulating properties.
So if you start using retinol every day out of the gate, you can end up with some painful inflammation and a damaged skin barrier, negating any potential positives. One way to avoid that irritation is to start slow, explains Ranella Hirsch, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Boston.
Who should skip retinol? “Retinols can be a beneficial addition for most skin types, but it isn't a one-size-fits-all approach,” Panzica says. Board certified dermatologist Zenovia Gabriel, MD, notes that “people with sensitive skin conditions like rosacea cannot tolerate really strong topicals like retinols.”
What does retinol do for your skin? Retinol increases skin cell production (proliferation). It helps unclog pores. Retinol also exfoliates your skin and increases collagen production, which can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, giving your skin a fresher, plump appearance.
Can Retinol Damage the Skin? You may have heard that extended retinol use can cause the skin to thin and the skin barrier to degrade as a result of increased cell turnover, but Shah says that's a myth. You don't need to worry about retinol causing permanent damage, Schlessinger says.
“Topical retinoids, those used for anti-aging, may cause eyebrow hair loss,” Bossavy warns. That doesn't mean you need to give up your precious retinol products — just keep them off your arches. “Don't apply your retinoid to your eyebrow or the area immediately above, where it may migrate,” the pro suggests.
How long does it last? The side effects of retinoids typically last around a month to a month and a half. This range of 4-6 weeks varies from person to person as the skin accustoms itself to the new product. If you're experiencing peeling that lasts longer than this period, please reach out to your provider.
Retinol significantly decreased both hormone levels, however retinoic acid decreased the progesterone level only.
Discontinue use if you have negative side effects after a few weeks of use and contact your physician to help reassess your skin type and find a solution that will protect your skin barrier . Consider using moisturizing and soothing topical skin care products with retinol to counteract its negative side effects.
First, the answer is yes, retinol can make wrinkles worse, especially when you first start using it. What is happening is a drying effect, and one can get epidermal sliding from separation from the dermis.
As a rule the more irritated your skin is, the less frequently you should apply it. If your skin responds well, you can start applying retinol every night.
Retinoids (Accutane and Tegison) are used clinically for the treatment of a variety of skin diseases. Since retinoids are analogs of vitamin A, their potential to produce liver disease is reviewed. Animal and human studies of liver function tests suggest some abnormalities in the liver in about 25% of patients treated.
Regardless of your skin type or which product you use first, a layer of moisturizer should always be applied after retinoids.
Retinol can be a skin irritant
Dermatitis, erythema (redness), scaling/dryness, peeling, burning or stinging, and irritation of the skin are common adverse reactions reported with retinol use, and, in some cases, the reactions are so bad, that even at low concentrations it cannot be used by certain people.
Don't Mix: Retinol with vitamin C, benzoyl peroxide, and AHA/BHA acids. AHA and BHA acids are exfoliating, which can dry out the skin and cause further irritation if your skincare routine already includes retinol.
Why is Retinol Controversial? Despite its proven skin benefits, Retinol is not without controversy because it comes with a host of side effects. This includes irritation, redness, peeling and making skin more sensitive to the sun.
Should you use retinol under your eyes? Yes, definitely. While it is true that retinol – a form of vitamin A – is a powerful ingredient and the skin under your eyes is delicate, there's no reason why you should miss out on the amazing benefits of retinol.
Missing a dose of topical retinol should not impact the long-term results of your treatment. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed dose, as too much retinol can result in dry and flaky skin.
Use retinol once or twice a week at first to see how your skin reacts, and gradually work up to every other day or three times a week. Another key tip for using retinol is to incorporate it into your nighttime skincare routine only, as it makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight.