Dr. Abdulaziz AlRashed — Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetic & Laser

How to Start a Retinoid Without Irritation

Last reviewed 1 July 2026 — Dr. Abdulaziz AlRashed

A patient advice sheet — 9 practical points. Reviewed and updated by Dr. Abdulaziz AlRashed, July 2026.

Last reviewed: July 2026

The advice

Retinoids are the gold standard for acne, texture, fine lines and pigmentation — but all their success lies in a correct, gradual start.
Start low strength: a pea-sized amount for the whole face, on completely dry skin (wait 15–20 minutes after washing), at night only.
Begin two nights weekly and build up gradually to nightly over 4–8 weeks as tolerated.
For sensitive skin: apply moisturizer before or after it (or both — the "sandwich") to soften irritation without cancelling the benefit.
Mild dryness and flaking in the first weeks is expected (the adjustment phase), and acne can temporarily flare in some — do not stop; it passes.
Avoid the corners of the eyes, nose and mouth, and do not mix it the same night with acids or benzoyl peroxide at first.
Morning sunscreen is mandatory throughout use.
Stop it with pregnancy, pregnancy planning, or breastfeeding.
Results: acne and texture within 8–12 weeks; pigment and lines take months — it is a marathon, not a sprint.

See also the full treatment page: Acne treatment — options, evidence and expected timelines.

My private clinic at Kuwait Hospital (Sabah Al-Salem) — direct assessment and a treatment plan built around your case.