Retinol Sensitive

For beginners, a low retinol concentration (0.01–0.3%) is sufficient to stimulate skin renewal. What matters is not “more,” but regular use with good tolerability. A mildly formulated serum with low-dose retinol combined with soothing ingredients is ideal for starting out.

Retinol should be introduced gradually into the evening routine. Start with a few applications per week on cleansed, dry skin and follow with a hydrating moisturizer. This allows the skin to adapt step by step and benefit optimally from retinol’s regenerative effects.

The 3-2-1 rule describes a gradual increase in frequency:

Week 1: apply every 3 nights
Week 2: apply every 2 nights
From week 3: apply every night

Frequency can be adjusted individually depending on skin response. Consistent daytime sun protection is essential, as retinol increases UV sensitivity. We strongly recommend our Four Seasons Day Cream with SPF 50+.

For beginners, a precisely formulated retinol serum is most effective, followed by a suitable moisturizer. After applying the retinol serum, we recommend our Ultra Rich Night Cream or Time Machine.

For beginners, low-dose retinol is clearly the better choice. Retinal (retinaldehyde) works faster and more intensely, as it is only one conversion step away from retinoic acid. This can easily overwhelm sensitive or retinol-inexperienced skin. Retinol, by contrast, is converted more slowly into its active form, resulting in a more controlled, manageable effect. Mildly formulated retinol is therefore the safer and more sustainable option for entering retinoid skincare.

Retinol should always be used in the evening. The ingredient is light-sensitive and unfolds its regenerative effect best overnight, when the skin is in repair mode. UV radiation also degrades retinol more quickly, reducing effectiveness during the day. Evening application alone is fully sufficient for both beginners and experienced users.

The skin typically needs 2–4 weeks to adjust to retinol. During this time, cell renewal is gradually stimulated. Slowly increasing frequency helps guide the skin through this adaptation phase.

Yes. Bakuchiol and retinol complement each other very well within one formulation. While retinol stimulates cell renewal and collagen production, bakuchiol provides additional antioxidant and soothing benefits. This combination is particularly suitable for beginners or sensitive skin, as bakuchiol can improve tolerability. Even experienced users benefit, as bakuchiol gently enhances retinol’s smoothing and renewing effects.

There is no “better” or “worse” – both ingredients have different strengths. Bakuchiol is considered a gentle, plant-based alternative to retinol and supports skin structure and elasticity, but works more slowly and less intensively. Retinol is far better researched and remains the gold standard in anti-aging skincare due to its targeted effect on collagen production and cell renewal. High-dose retinol, however, can be too strong for many skin types. For dry or sensitive skin, combinations of low-dose retinol and bakuchiol-like actives are particularly effective.

Yes. Bakuchiol can visibly reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by supporting collagen production. The skin appears smoother and more plump, while elasticity improves and facial contours look firmer. Its antioxidant properties also help protect the skin from environmental aging. Bakuchiol is soothing, nourishing, and especially well suited for demanding, sensitive, or dry skin. Due to its gentle action, results develop steadily over time – alone or in combination with retinol for maximum efficacy.

No. Novoretin is not classic retinol but a modern, retinol-like active ingredient of plant origin. It supports skin renewal in a similar way to retinol but is considered particularly well tolerated. Novoretin is derived from the resin of the mastix tree from the Greek island of Chios.

Green tea is rich in antioxidants and helps protect the skin from free radicals and environmental stress. It also has antibacterial properties and can help reduce blemishes and redness, promoting a clearer overall complexion. This supports skin health and makes the formulation suitable for all skin types and a gentle introduction to retinol skincare.

Retinol does not work overnight – but it works sustainably. Initial improvements such as a fresher glow may become visible after 3–4 weeks. More pronounced effects on skin texture, pores, and wrinkles typically appear after 8–12 weeks of regular use. Because retinol supports collagen production long term, skin quality continues to improve over time. Patience pays off – retinol is one of the few active ingredients whose results actually intensify with continued use.

Yes. A mildly formulated retinol such as Retinol Sensitive can be used during summer. Consistent daytime sun protection is essential, as retinol increases photosensitivity. This keeps the skin protected while still benefiting from retinol’s regenerative effects.

Yes. Dry skin can benefit from retinol when the formulation is well balanced. Modern, clean retinol serums combine retinol with soothing and hydrating ingredients that help maintain suppleness and strengthen the skin barrier. When followed by a rich moisturizer, retinol can improve smoothness, evenness, and firmness without unnecessarily stressing the skin.

During pregnancy and breastfeeding, retinol should be avoided. Plant-based ingredients such as bakuchiol and Novoretin are commonly used alternatives.

Yes. Thinner skin can particularly benefit from retinol’s collagen-stimulating effects. Initially, retinol may promote shedding of superficial keratinized skin cells, making the skin feel temporarily thinner or more sensitive. Long term, however, retinol has been shown to stimulate collagen production in deeper skin layers, strengthening skin structure and making the skin more resilient and firm overall.