What percentage of retinol is best for sensitive skin?Updated a year ago
Retinoids come in various strengths, based on the type of retinoid and the percentage of it in the formula. Finding the right percentage of retinol for sensitive skin, especially if you’re a beginner, is a little more complex than just starting with the lowest number.
Retinol is usually used in formulations at percentages between 0.3% and 1%, retinaldehyde at 0.05% to 0.1%, and retinoic acid at 0.025% to 0.1%.
You can also find higher percentages of retinol derivatives like retinyl palmitate or retinyl propionate, but they lack the clinical evidence to prove that they do much of anything.
Most sources on the internet recommend you start with a weaker product, like a 0.3% retinol, before moving up to a higher percentage and finally a stronger retinoid. This type of approach might only delay your results, though, compared to choosing a more bioactive retinoid that’s calibrated to sensitive skin.
Plus, the percentage of retinaldehyde doesn’t seem to factor in the risk of irritation, either: In a study comparing 0.05% and 0.1% retinal, both formulas were equally well-tolerated by the participants.
Get Your Results-Guaranteed Retinol for Sensitive Skin
When you have sensitive skin, we know starting new products can be scary. However, if you choose the right retinoid and introduce it into your routine carefully, the skin rejuvenating benefits easily outweigh the risks.
So if we haven’t made it clear yet - we genuinely think the Enzyme Active Retinol Serum is one of the best retinoids for sensitive skin. Why? Because we actually developed it with inflammatory skin conditions (and especially rosacea) in mind.
Every decision, from adding soothing agents to the formula to ensuring an ultra-stable production process came from the desire to make the best retinol for sensitive skin, and that wouldn’t cause issues for beginners or those with conditions like rosacea and eczema.
We want to make your decision to try our retinol for sensitive skin a little easier, which is why we also offer a results guarantee - that’s because the brands making your products should have your skin’s best interests in mind.