In short: No—in the long term, retinol doesn’t make the skin thinner; it actually makes it thicker. The active ingredient stimulates collagen production, strengthens the skin’s structure, and improves cell regeneration. In the short term, however, your skin may feel thinner or more sensitive—this is due to accelerated cell turnover, which sheds dead skin cells more quickly. In this article, you’ll learn what initial symptoms are typical, how retinol actually works, how...

Radiant skin, a refined complexion, and fewer wrinkles—retinol is a type of retinoid and is considered one of the most effective active ingredients in anti-aging skincare. But not every retinol serum delivers on its promises.