Retinol – powerful but requires guidance
Retinol is one of the most effective ingredients in modern skincare. It stimulates cell turnover, evens out skin tone, improves texture, and reduces fine lines and pigmentation. While the results can be fantastic, the journey there often involves a reaction phase. Read our step-by-step guide for safe application.
A remarkable ingredient with incredible results, but one that requires correct application to deliver its full potential. In this guide, we discuss our most powerful ingredients at Skin Society:
– RETINOL / SALICYLIC ACID / GLYCOLIC ACID
/ Retinol is one of the most potent ingredients in skincare and is frequently called the ultimate game-changer. It stimulates cell renewal, boosts collagen production, and evens out both skin tone and texture. The result is firmer, clearer, and more radiant skin with a visible reduction in lines and pigmentation.
/ Salicylic acid is one of the most effective skincare ingredients for treating blemishes and unbalanced skin. As an oil-soluble BHA, it can penetrate deep into the pores to dissolve sebum and dead skin cells, counteracting clogged pores and inflammation.
/ Glycolic acid delivers a clearer, more even complexion with fewer breakouts, less visible pores, and an improved skin texture – while leaving the skin feeling cleaner and more balanced.
But – with strength comes responsibility: never forget daytime sun protection. SPF is the ultimate key to protecting your skin and preserving the fantastic results achieved from retinol and acids.
Our favorites to combine with your advanced skincare routine 🤍
Tip! For best results and to protect the skin barrier:
ZO Skin Health Hydrating Creme 113g
Teoxane Post Procedure Fluid 30ml
Heliocare 360 Sensation SPF50+ 50ml
Your skin will thank you!
We are here for you
We want to guide you so that you use the product correctly and get the absolute most out of your skincare. Therefore, we offer complimentary consultations (available in SV/ENG) and are always here to answer your questions regarding your skin, your routine, and our selection. Contact us directly at info@skinsociety.se and mark your email with "Consultation"!
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use your product in the best possible way:
How to use retinol – less is more
Here is a guide on how to use your products, whether it is ZO Radical Night Repair, ZO Skin Brightener (0.25%, 0.5%, 1%), ZO Wrinkle & Texture Repair, ZO Exfoliation Accelerator, or ZO Complexion Clarifying Serum. If you have purchased any of these products, it is important that you read this guide step-by-step before beginning your application.
Application:
Retinol is an incredibly effective ingredient, but it commands respect. Therefore, use an extremely small amount of product – less than the size of a pea is enough for both the face and décolletage. Avoid the eye area.
When using retinol as a night serum, begin cautiously and allow your skin to acclimate by applying it just one evening a week during the first 4 weeks. Afterward, you can gradually increase the frequency to a maximum of 2 evenings a week, depending on how your skin responds. This approach ensures you get all the benefits – an even skin tone, improved texture, and renewed radiance – without compromising the skin's balance and barrier.
An exception is ZO Radical Night Repair, which should only be used as a targeted treatment cycle (kur). This is an extremely aggressive product, and for the best results, it should always be used under the guidance of a skin therapist or doctor. The biggest mistake many make here is following advice from social media, which often leads to an overly aggressive approach during initial use. If you wish to complete the "12-pump treatment cycle", we recommend planning ahead, as your skin will experience an extended recovery phase. Your skin will become irritated, red, experience peeling and tenderness, and swelling around the eyes may occur.
For first-time use and a moderately aggressive cycle, we recommend 4–5 pumps for 3 consecutive days. Avoid sun exposure during this time. If you have an important meeting, event, or lecture – complete the cycle 2–3 weeks prior.
For acne treatments and the use of salicylic and glycolic acid – please follow the specific guide provided during your consultation with our skin therapists at Skin Society.
NOTE! The use of retinol, salicylic acid, or glycolic acid can cause irritation, redness, peeling skin, and swollen eyes.
Avoid combining retinol treatment with:
- Tretinoin (e.g., prescription retinoid creams) – Retinol + tretinoin is often redundant and can be highly irritating.
- Adapalene – Same principle; using two retinoids simultaneously typically increases irritation without any added benefit.
- Tazarotene – An extra potent retinoid; combining it with retinol is rarely advisable.
- Benzoyl peroxide – Can cause severe dryness/peeling when used together. Some use both, but at different times (e.g., benzoyl peroxide in the morning, retinol at night).
- Salicylic acid – Can become overly exfoliating.
- Glycolic acid or other acids – High risk of irritation unless you already have very resilient skin.
- Isotretinoin (e.g., Roaccutane/Accutane) – The skin often becomes extremely sensitive and dry, and retinol is usually a poor choice unless explicitly directed otherwise by your doctor.
Often okay but requires caution:
- Clindamycin (topical antibiotic) – Often prescribed alongside retinoids for acne, but the combination can increase dryness and should be monitored closely under medical advice.
