Retinol products

Beginners usually do well with a low strength such as SKIN1004's 0.2% ampoule, moving to around 1% later if skin tolerates it. Higher isn't automatically better and may cause more dryness and peeling. If you're unsure about your skin type, ask the pharmacist.

Apply a small amount at night on clean, dry skin, two or three times a week at first, then build up as tolerated. Follow with moisturizer and use sunscreen every morning. Mild redness or flaking in the first weeks is common; if it worsens, use it less often.

It's generally advised to avoid it during pregnancy and breastfeeding unless a doctor approves. Also check first if you use prescribed skin treatments or have eczema, irritated or broken skin. Don't layer it with another retinoid product. Ask the pharmacist about any skin condition before ordering.

Niacinamide (vitamin B3) usually pairs well, which is why products like La Roche-Posay and Glami Lab combine them. Exfoliating acids and strong vitamin C are better separated: use them in the morning or on alternate nights, and retinol at night, to reduce irritation.

If you're targeting under-eyes, pick an eye-specific product such as the La Roche-Posay, Some By Mi or Infinity eye creams, or Derma Ten's caffeine eye serum. Face serums cover larger areas; keep them away from the eye rim. Orders are cash on delivery and arrive within 12–72 hours.