Does Retinol Make the Skin Thinner?

Typical Initial Reactions When Starting Retinol

During the adjustment phase, mild irritation can occur — usually harmless and temporary:

• Tightness or dryness
• Fine flaking
• Mild redness or sensitivity
• Temporarily increased need for hydration
• More blemishes surfacing from deeper layers

Tip: If your skin feels tight during this time, soothing ingredients such as panthenol, squalane, hyaluronic acid or ceramides help strengthen the barrier and make the retinol introduction phase noticeably more comfortable.

How Retinol Actually Works on the Skin

Retinol — also known as vitamin A — is one of the most thoroughly researched ingredients in modern skincare. Its effects go far beyond the surface: retinol activates cell activity in deeper layers of the skin, stimulates collagen production and supports the skin’s natural renewal processes.

Unlike many short-acting cosmetic ingredients, retinol produces long-lasting improvements in skin structure. It refines the complexion, improves firmness and smooths uneven texture. It works on multiple levels simultaneously:

• Stimulation of collagen production: activates fibroblasts in the dermis to produce new collagen and elastin — increasing density and elasticity.
• Boosting cell turnover: old keratinised cells are shed more quickly, revealing smoother, more even skin.
• Regulation of sebum production: helps reduce blemishes and enlarged pores.
• Brightening pigmentation: accelerated cell renewal replaces unevenly pigmented cells more quickly; retinol helps even out the skin tone.
• Improving scar healing: supports the regeneration of damaged tissue and can visibly smooth the appearance of old acne or injury scars.
• Antioxidant protection: counteracts free radicals responsible for premature skin ageing.

Did you know?

Retinol is one of the few cosmetic ingredients with scientifically proven anti-ageing benefits. Studies show that regular use over several months measurably increases skin density and boosts collagen levels. In an independent TV test on taff and SAT.1 Frühstücksfernsehen, the DOC BERGER EFFECT Retinol Serum demonstrated its wrinkle-reducing effects impressively — clearly outperforming conventional drugstore products.

How to Use Retinol Correctly

For retinol to deliver its full potential, the right concentration, proper application and correct combination with other skincare ingredients are crucial. Especially for beginners, the rule is: less is more — and patience pays off.

1. Start Slowly

Begin with a low concentration (0.1–0.3%) and apply it two to three evenings per week. Once your skin adjusts to the ingredient, you can increase usage to every other night and eventually to nightly application.

2. Apply in the Right Order

After cleansing, apply the retinol serum to dry skin — followed by a hydrating night cream to support the skin barrier. When using multiple serums: apply the thinnest textures first, followed by richer ones.

3. Sunscreen Is Mandatory

Retinol accelerates cell turnover, making the skin more sensitive to light. Always use a daytime moisturiser with SPF (30 or higher). This protects against UV-induced collagen breakdown and preserves the long-term benefits of retinol.