When it comes to the products in your medicine cabinet, Retinol and other Retinoids may reign supreme. And for good reason. Not only do they keep pimples at bay, but they also fight signs of premature aging, like wrinkles, rough skin, and discoloration.
Retinol works best when used consistently, but you've probably heard it isn't particularly compatible with sun exposure. So, what about those summer days when you're spending more time outdoors? Should you worry about Retinol and sun exposure? Here's what you need to know to keep your skin safe and healthy.
What Is Retinol?
Retinol is a type of Vitamin A that belongs to a larger class of Vitamin A derivatives called Retinoids. Stronger Retinoids, like Tretinoin, are only available with a doctor's prescription. However, you can find Retinol in many over-the-counter products, like moisturizers and serums.
Retinol tackles the most common skin care concerns by changing how your skin cells behave. It acts like an exfoliant, removing dead skin cells so new, healthier ones can grow. This helps prevent acne by unclogging pores and fights signs of photoaging, leading to fewer wrinkles, improved skin texture, and a brighter, more even skin tone.
How Do Retinol and Sun Exposure Interact?
Combining Retinol and sun exposure comes with two main issues.
Sun Safety
The first is skin safety. Retinol isn't phototoxic, meaning it doesn't react with sunlight to burn your skin. When you're first starting with Retinol, however, your skin may be more sensitive to sunlight. You may also experience inflammation or irritation as your skin gets used to Retinol, and adding a dose of ultraviolet (UV) rays can worsen these symptoms. But once your skin adjusts to your new regimen, these side effects wane.
Formula Stability
Retinol itself can be sensitive to the sun. When certain formulations are exposed to sunlight, they can break down and become less effective. So even if you're sticking to your regular Retinol regimen, it may not be working as well as it could—and you probably wouldn't even know it.
What Happens If You Use Retinol without Sunscreen?
If you don't apply sunscreen before and during a day out in the sun, you're more likely to burn—whether you're using Retinol or not. Over time, damage from unprotected sun exposure, including sunburns and tanning (and no, there's no such thing as a safe tan!), can lead to premature skin aging and skin cancer. If you develop a sunburn while using Retinol, skip this step in your routine for a few days until your skin fully heals.
How Should You Incorporate Retinol into Your Routine?
If you're adding Retinol to your regimen, start at a low concentration and go slow to help minimize irritation as your skin adjusts. You'll also want to reduce sun exposure during this period. So, if your two-week beach vacation is just around the corner, wait until you're back.
When it comes to Retinol, less is more. Start by applying a small amount to your skin a few nights a week. As your skin adapts, gradually work your way up to nightly use. Retinol can be drying, so keep your skin hydrated by applying a gentle, soothing moisturizer afterward. And if you notice any signs of irritation—like redness, peeling, or pain—scale back in frequency or strength. After a few weeks, you should be able to find a regimen that works for you.
Supporting Long-Term Skin Radiance
Whether you're using Retinol or not, daily sun protection is a must. Retinol can help repair some UV damage, but nothing works as well as a daily dose of prevention.
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher each day, and reapply at least every two hours. Choose a tinted formula to go beyond blocking harmful UVA and UVB rays. Tinted sunscreens also protect against visible blue light from computer and phone screens, which can lead to hyperpigmentation and skin damage. Try EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 for these benefits plus antioxidants like Niacinamide and Vitamin E to reduce free radical damage and skin aging.
Sunscreen isn't the only way to keep your skin healthy and safe. A comprehensive strategy also includes seeking shade, avoiding peak UV exposure, and wearing broad-brimmed hats and other protective clothes. Add in a nightly dose of Retinol and your skin will enjoy a rejuvenating regimen that keeps it healthy, vibrant, and fresh.
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