Retinol is often described as a “gold standard” ingredient in skincare — and for good reason. When used correctly, it can transform skin texture, support collagen production, help manage breakouts, and soften the appearance of fine lines.
However, retinol is also one of the most misunderstood ingredients. Strength, frequency, skin type, and lifestyle factors all play a role in how well it works. That’s why we’ve created this Retinol Blog Series — to guide you step by step through safe, effective, and personalised retinol use.
This article focuses on retinol strengths and how to choose the right one, and it links closely with our previous blogs on retinol safety and our skin type quiz, which are essential reading before starting.
What Is Retinol and Why Is It So Effective?
Retinol is a vitamin A derivative that works by increasing skin cell turnover and stimulating collagen production. Over time, this can help:
- Improve uneven skin tone and texture
- Reduce breakouts and congestion
- Support smoother, firmer-looking skin
- Minimise the appearance of fine lines
Because retinol actively changes how the skin behaves, it must be introduced gradually and used in a way that suits your individual skin type.
Understanding Retinol Strengths: Which One Should You Use?
Low-Strength Retinol (0.1% – 0.3%)
Best for:
- First-time retinol users
- Sensitive or reactive skin
- Dry or compromised skin barriers
Lower-strength retinol allows the skin to adapt slowly, reducing irritation while still delivering long-term benefits. For many people, this is the most sustainable starting point.
Medium-Strength Retinol (0.3% – 0.5%)
Best for:
- Skin that has already adjusted to retinol
- Normal or combination skin
- Early signs of ageing or uneven texture
This strength offers more noticeable results but requires good hydration and strict daily SPF use.
High-Strength Retinol (0.75% – 1%+)
Best for:
- Experienced retinol users
- Oily or resilient skin types
- Advanced concerns such as acne scarring or deeper lines
Higher strengths are powerful and should be introduced carefully. Professional guidance is recommended at this level to protect the skin barrier.
How to Use Retinol Correctly
Retinol should always be used in the evening and introduced gradually:
- Start with 1–2 nights per week
- Apply to clean, completely dry skin
- Follow with a nourishing moisturiser
- Increase frequency slowly as tolerance builds
- Wear broad-spectrum SPF daily, without exception
In our previous blog, “Important Factors to Consider When Using Retinol”, we covered what not to do around retinol use — including sunbeds, saunas, excessive heat, over-exfoliation, and combining retinol with strong acids. These factors directly affect how well your skin tolerates retinol and should not be overlooked.
Why Skin Type Matters with Retinol
Not all skin responds to retinol in the same way. Your skin type influences:
- Which strength is appropriate
- How often you should apply it
- How much barrier support you’ll need
That’s why we recommend completing our “What Is Your Skin Type?” quiz before starting retinol. Understanding whether your skin is dry, oily, combination, sensitive, or balanced helps prevent common mistakes and unnecessary irritation.
For example:
- Dry or sensitive skin benefits from lower strengths, slower progression, and richer moisturisers
- Oily or acne-prone skin may tolerate stronger formulas but still needs hydration and sun protection
- Combination skin often requires a tailored approach rather than a single routine
Supporting Your Skin While Using Retinol
Retinol works best when the rest of your routine is simple and supportive. Focus on:
- Gentle, non-stripping cleansers
- Barrier-repair ingredients like ceramides and glycerin
- Hydration boosters such as hyaluronic acid
- Daily SPF to protect new skin cells
Retinol should challenge the skin just enough — not overwhelm it.
Retinol can be incredibly effective, but success comes down to education, patience, and personalisation. Choosing the right strength, respecting your skin type, and following proper usage guidelines will make all the difference.
For best results, we recommend reading this blog alongside:
- Important Factors to Consider When Using Retinol
- What Is Your Skin Type? – Interactive Skin Quiz
Together, they form the foundation of a safe and effective retinol routine.