Apply a small amount to a clean, dry face every evening. While the SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3 was designed to limit the irritation commonly associated with retinoids, this product should be used with care. Use sparingly, and do not use every day until the skin has adjusted. Topical application of Retinol is generally accompanied by a considerable amount exfoliation. Common reactions may include minor to moderate erythema, flaking and stinging. If this continues to occur, discontinue the product for a few days.
Topical retinoids are an effective treatment for photo ageing, but dosage tolerance varies significantly from user to user. Though proper skin acclimation is helpful and in most cases successful, some people may never be able to tolerate high concentrations of retinol. Side effects, generally referred to as retinoid dermatitis, can include skin flaking/peeling, stinging (especially upon application of other skincare products), slight to moderate erythema, and – in severe cases – hot spots and scabbing.