Why Everyone’s Using Retinol Wrong—Even Influencers

Most people think they know how to use retinol correctly. They don’t.

Yes, even influencers. Yes, even that one with “glass skin” and 3 million followers.

Retinol can change your skin—but only if you stop wrecking your barrier with it. Here’s what people keep getting wrong in 2025, what actually works, and how to get results without your face falling off.

What’s Wrong With How People Use Retinol Today?

Let’s break it down:

• They start with high percentages (1%) right off the bat

• They skip moisturizer

• They use it every night without building tolerance

• They layer it with exfoliants, acids, or actives

• And worst of all? They get redness, peeling, or purging and assume it’s “just part of the process”

It’s not. That’s your skin freaking out.

Using retinol wrong does more harm than good—and no, you’re not weak for having sensitive skin. You’re just not following the right process.

Common Myths About Retinol (That Won’t Die)

Myth 1: “If it burns, it’s working.”
Wrong. If it burns, it’s irritating your skin. You’re not supposed to suffer for skincare.

Myth 2: “Start with the strongest percentage.”
That’s like running a marathon on your first day at the gym. Start low (0.25% or less).

Myth 3: “You’ll always purge at first.”
Not necessarily. If used correctly, many people avoid purging altogether.

Myth 4: “You can’t use it if you have sensitive skin.”
You can—you just need to buffer and go slow.

How to Use Retinol Correctly (The Real Way)

If you want results without damage, here’s what to do:

1. Start with a low strength

→ 0.25% to 0.3% is ideal for beginners. Don’t chase numbers. Chase results.

2. Apply it on dry skin, not damp

→ Water increases absorption = more irritation. Pat your skin dry first.

3. Use the sandwich method

→ Moisturizer → Retinol → Moisturizer again. Especially helpful if your skin’s reactive.

4. Apply only at night

→ Retinol breaks down in sunlight. Morning use = useless + risky.

5. Use it 2x a week at first

→ Then slowly work up to every other night. Every night is not the goal.

6. Always use SPF the next morning

→ No exceptions. Retinol makes your skin more sun-sensitive.

What It’ll Cost (Time + Products)

Time:

• Results take 6–12 weeks. Retinol isn’t instant. Stick with it.

Money:

• Budget retinol (like The Ordinary or Minimalist): ₹500–₹800

• Mid-range (like Paula’s Choice, CeraVe): ₹1,200–₹2,000

Tools You Need:

• A gentle cleanser

• Barrier-focused moisturizer

• SPF 50 (yes, even if you work from home)

When to Stop Using It

Pause the retinol if:

• Your skin is peeling, cracking, or burning

• You’re breaking out worse than before for more than 3 weeks

• You’re layering it with AHAs/BHAs and getting raw skin

And please—don’t combine it with vitamin C or exfoliants until your skin’s used to it.

Bonus Retinol Hacks Nobody Talks About

• Mix a pea-sized drop of retinol with moisturizer for gentler delivery

• Use it on body acne (chest, back, shoulders—it works)

• Apply vaseline around your eyes, nose, and mouth to avoid irritation in those areas

Final Word

Knowing how to use retinol correctly is the difference between glowing skin and weeks of damage control. Most people overdo it, then blame their skin. Don’t be that person.

Start slow, protect your barrier, and let retinol work with your skin—not against it.

Read more – 7 Simple Tips for a Glowing Complexion