Today, we’re going to explore a topic that many people are concerned about: whether those with rosacea can safely use retinol. With the growth of the skincare market, retinol and tretinoin have become popular choices, but for individuals with rosacea, is it truly safe to use? Today, I aim to answer this question for you.
Firstly, many people worry that their sensitive skin will experience greater discomfort from using retinol, with some jokingly asking, “Doctor, do you want my skin to die?” The truth is, the answer is a definite yes: it can be used! However, it requires patience.
High-concentration retinol and tretinoin available on the market can indeed cause irritation on normal skin, let alone on the more sensitive skin affected by rosacea. If someone starts with a higher concentration product, they may experience discomfort. Therefore, for those with rosacea, it is essential to begin with a lower concentration product and to use it cautiously during the skin’s adjustment period.
Long-term use of retinol and tretinoin can genuinely improve the skin’s barrier function, promote metabolism, and help repair the skin’s texture. After the adjustment phase, the skin’s stability will generally improve. Specifically, if a patient has severe rosacea with noticeable redness and itching, I usually recommend focusing first on alleviating the redness with some gentle anti-inflammatory products before gradually introducing retinol or tretinoin.
If, after using them for some time, you notice an improvement in your skin, you can consider gradually increasing the frequency of use. Begin with using the product once a week and observe your skin’s reaction. If there is no evident discomfort, you can gradually increase it to twice a week, or even daily.
Of course, relying solely on retinol and tretinoin will not completely resolve rosacea issues; you may also need other skincare ingredients to enhance the skin’s barrier function, and it’s best to choose lightweight, non-greasy products to avoid exacerbating the rosacea.
Many people also notice small red bumps accompanying their rosacea. Using retinol and tretinoin in moderation can reduce the occurrence of these bumps, thus improving the overall condition of the skin. In summary, friends with rosacea can absolutely use retinol, but it requires patience and the correct method for gradual adaptation.