How To Use Retinol The Right Way, According To A Skincare Expert

Looking to level up your skincare game? Then you’ll want some retinol. This buzzy ingredient has been a hot topic of conversation amongst beauty enthusiasts for a while now – and for good reason – but for those just getting to know it, retinol can seem a little intimidation. But not for long. We ask Fatma Shaheen, award-winning skincare and clinical expert and founder of Skin Design London, everything we need to know about the beauty industry’s biggest buzzword.

An Expert’s Guide To Retinol

Recap: what is retinol?

Retinol is a form of vitamin A clinically proven to improve skin texture, clarity and firmness. It accelerates skin renewal and supports collagen production, making it one of the most effective ingredients in modern skincare.

What does it do?

Retinol encourages cellular turnover and rejuvenation. It helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, breakouts, uneven texture and dullness, revealing fresher, firmer, more radiant skin.

What are the benefits?

The real power of retinol is in its consistency. With regular use, skin becomes visibly smoother, pores are refined, tone evens out and firmness improves. At Skin Design London, we made these benefits accessible through a dual-phase method (the Retinol Gel Crème and the Retextuzing Serum) that respects the skin barrier. Clients see a restored glow without the usual disruption.

How long does it take to see results?

Some will notice skin looking clearer and more refined in just a few weeks. But the deeper, more structural benefits build over six to 12 weeks, especially when supported with the right delivery system.

Can retinol help with acne?

Retinol is exceptional for acne-prone skin. It reduces breakouts by unclogging pores, regulating oil and softening post-inflammatory pigmentation. Many of our acne-prone clients report smoother, clearer skin within weeks.

Are there any side effects to consider?

Traditional retinol is known for dryness and irritation. That’s exactly why we reinvented the experience. Our Retexturizing Serum delivers targeted power, while Retinol Gel Crème offers calm, controlled delivery with reparative actives. This layered approach changes everything; it’s why even clients with sensitive skin can use our formulations.

How can we reduce irritation when using retinol?

Respect the skin barrier. Don’t focus on percentages, look at the quality of retinol. Our method eliminates the need for complicated routines, as both products are already formulated to balance efficacy with comfort.

When should we start using it?

It depends on your skin goals. Many start in their late 20s for prevention, but we’ve seen clients start earlier for texture or congestion. I prescribe our Retinol Gel Crème on younger clients to treat acne and scarring, for example. But our formulas are designed to work across skin ages – what matters most is using the right formulation, with no downtime.

How much and how often should we use it?

You can use retinol daily depending on the formulation. It’s important to note that frequency is more important than volume; think consistency over intensity. I would recommend using it daily or three to five times a week, starting with fewer days and working up over time.

How can we work retinol into our skincare routine?

You can use retinol morning and night, but those starting out might prefer to start off nightly. Begin your routine as usual with a cleanser, then apply the Retexturizing Serum at night and Retinol Gel Crème in the daytime. Always finish with hydration [aka, a moisturiser]. Avoid the eye area and broken skin and never forget your SPF the next day.

What’s the difference between a retinol cream and a retinol serum?

Serums are more concentrated, often targeting renewal and resurfacing, while creams tend to offer sustained, buffered delivery with moisture. We designed ours to work in harmony: the serum for precision, the crème for daily use. This is our innovation: retinol as a system, not a single step.

(c) Angela Roma, Pexels

How important is it to apply SPF when using retinol?

Regardless, you should use SPF daily – but especially when applying retinol.

Retinol makes the skin more sensitive to sunlight, increasing the risk of sunburn and other sun-related damage. Applying sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day is essential when using retinol to protect your skin and prevent sun damage.

What changes should be made to a skincare routine in the spring and summer?

You can use the Retinol Gel Crème daily to maintain results, and apply the Retexturizing Serum at night for targeted renewal. This combination has proven highly effective in managing melasma and preventing hyperpigmentation. It also helps deliver visible results without the weight, making it perfect for hotter seasons.

Extra care should also be taken to apply SPF on a daily basis – and when it’s especially warm, multiple times a day.

And in autumn and winter?

This is when your skin can tolerate more. Clients often increase their usage in cooler months, layering with rich moisture. The skin is less exposed, so it’s the perfect time to intensify your routine.

Can you combine retinol with other ingredients?

Absolutely, when done intelligently. Our formulations pair retinol with antioxidants, peptides, calming botanicals and reparative actives that enhance performance and reduce stress on the skin.

What should you not mix with retinol?

Avoid layering with other strong actives unless advised. Strong acids or exfoliators can also increase sensitivity. Keep your routine clean and intentional.

Who should avoid retinol?

Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid it, unless cleared by their doctor. Also, if your skin barrier is compromised or extremely reactive, consult a professional before use.

About The Expert

Fatma Shaheen is the founder of Skin Design London. With a background in clinical skin health, Shaheen created her brand to deliver high-performance skincare that feels as good as it performs, and where clinical results meet refined daily rituals. Skin Design London is behind several breakthrough skincare products, including the SDL Retinol Gel Crème, Retexturizing Serum (which uses a dual-phase retinol method), C Antioxidant Glow and Vitamin Skin Peels®. These are daily-use formulas designed for even the most sensitive skin, with no irritation, peeling or compromises. Just visible, skin-changing results.