Ten years ago, many women were afraid of retinol. It was considered “aggressive,” “too strong,” and even dangerous by many. However, modern cosmetology has learned to work with it in such a way that it only brings benefits. Today, retinoids have become a true symbol of anti-aging: they do not mask the problem, but trigger natural recovery mechanisms. That is why retinol became one of the most popular and, at the same time, most studied ingredients in skincare in 2025.

Myths about retinol: what is true and what is not

When a person hears the word “retinol” for the first time, a number of associations usually come to mind: dryness, flaking, redness. But most of the ideas about this ingredient are myths that are passed on by word of mouth.

  • Myth 1. Retinol can only be used in winter.
    Many patients think that retinoids are strictly a “winter” ingredient. In fact, the problem is not retinol itself, but solar radiation. If you use SPF every day, you can use it all year round, even in the summer when you are on vacation.
  • Myth 2. Retinol “erases” the top layer of skin.
    This is a very old belief. Retinol does not destroy the skin, but only helps cells to renew themselves faster. Yes, sometimes peeling occurs at the beginning, but it is temporary and related to adaptation.
  • Myth 3. Retinol cannot be combined with anything.
    In fact, it works great in combination with barrier components. They make the process comfortable, reduce irritation, and allow even those with sensitive skin to use retinol.
  • Myth 4. Retinol is addictive.
    This is not true: cells do not become “lazy”; on the contrary, they begin to work in a healthier mode.
  • Myth 5. Retinol always causes strong reactions.
    This was true in the 90s, when formulas were primitive. Today, we have mild encapsulated forms and products that work gradually without causing discomfort.

It is gradually becoming clear that retinol is not a scary enemy, but an ally, just one with character.

How to use retinol correctly

You should start with retinol the same way you would with sports. If a person tries to run a marathon right away, they risk injury. But if you start with short distances, the result will be stable and safe.

Stages

  • First stage (2–3 weeks). Once a week is enough to start with. This allows the skin to “get acquainted” with the new active ingredient.
  • Second stage (1–2 months). Once the skin gets used to it, you can move on to two applications, and then every other day.
  • Third stage. If there is no irritation, daily use is allowed.

This regimen may seem long, but it helps to avoid unpleasant reactions.

The “sandwich” method

This is especially often recommended for those who are afraid of irritation. If you apply a moisturizing cream before and after retinol, you can get all the benefits without significant dryness. This method is very popular with people who have sensitive or dry skin.

Time of application

Retinoids are always used in the evening. They do not like sunlight, so you always need a cream with SPF in the morning. This is rule number one, and without it, all your efforts may be in vain.

What forms do retinoids come in?

Retinoids are a large family, and they vary in strength and speed of action. It is important to explain this so that people understand why one cream works gently and another can cause a stronger reaction.

  • Retinol. A classic found in almost every anti-aging cream.
  • Retinal (retinaldehyde). Works faster, less irritating — sometimes called the “gold standard of the future.”
  • Retinoic acid (tretinoin). A drug used in dermatology. Works quickly but can cause serious reactions.
  • Retinol esters. Mild, “light” forms, ideal for beginners.
  • Capsulated retinoids. Modern technologies make retinol more controllable, it is released gradually, and the skin receives it in “small portions.”

Thus, the patient can choose the level of strength that suits their needs and tolerance.

Combinations with retinol: what is possible and what is not

Retinol “loves company,” but only the right kind. There is a simple rule here: it goes well with ingredients that restore and moisturize, but does not tolerate “neighborhood” with aggressive active ingredients.

What to avoid

  • High concentrations of acids. Together, they cause irritation.
  • Home peels. This is double the stress, and your skin may not be able to handle it.
  • Strong depigmenting agents. Without a doctor's supervision, their effect can be too harsh.

What to combine

  • Ceramides and fatty acids. They are like bricks and mortar for the skin: they restore the barrier and make it strong.
  • Niacinamide. Helps relieve irritation and improves tone.
  • Peptides. Real “builders” that, together with retinol, stimulate regeneration.
  • Hyaluronic acid. Provides moisture and makes the skin softer.
  • SPF. A must: retinol and sun without protection are incompatible.

Thus, the right combination makes retinol an ally rather than an enemy.

Retinoid reaction: how to mitigate it

When you start using retinol, processes are triggered in the skin that can manifest externally as redness, dryness, or flaking. This is called a “retinoid reaction.”

  • Retinol accelerates the keratinocyte renewal cycle.
  • Stimulates the production of new cells in the basal layer.
  • Activates fibroblasts in the dermis, restructuring tissues.

This is a normal adaptation process that lasts several weeks. The cosmetologist's task is to make it as comfortable as possible.

  • Introduce retinol gradually.
  • Use the “sandwich” method.
  • Add ceramides and niacinamide.
  • Avoid aggressive cleansing and hot water.
  • Apply SPF daily.

Retinol in Image Skincare products

In Image Skincare professional cosmetics, retinol is available in various forms. This allows you to choose the option that suits your specific needs: from a night cream for renewal to a mask that gradually releases retinol throughout the night. These products are combined with antioxidants, peptides, and ceramides, which makes the care comfortable and safe even for those who are trying retinoids for the first time.

Practical advice from a cosmetologist: Q&A

– Can I start using retinol in the summer?
Yes, you can. The main thing is to use SPF 50 daily and avoid direct sunlight.

– I have dry skin. Will it get worse?
No, if you combine retinol with ceramides, fatty acids, and hyaluronic acid. Then it works gently.

– How long will it take to see results?
The first effects are usually noticeable after 6–8 weeks, but the real transformation occurs after 3–6 months.

– Can it be used for life?
Yes. Retinol is not addictive; its effect only accumulates.

Conclusion

The value of retinol lies in its versatility. It works on several key problems that usually bother women after 30–35 years of age.

  • Reduces wrinkles and stimulates collagen production.
  • Evens out skin tone and fights pigmentation.
  • Controls the sebaceous glands and helps with acne.
  • Restores a healthy glow to dull skin.

Thus, retinol is not just an active ingredient, but a strategic ally in long-term care. In 2025, it remains the most effective ingredient for the prevention and correction of age-related changes.

The main thing: introduce it gradually, combine it with barrier components, and always remember about sun protection. Then retinol will not only reveal its potential, but also become your “long-term investment capital” in the beauty and health of your skin.