SPF
Find The Right Cleanser For You Start the Quiz
lotion-bottle
lotion-bottle

Retinol

A derivative of vitamin A, retinol helps to promote the skin’s natural exfoliation process—which can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. With continued use, it can also help to improve the skin's texture, and even skin tone. Although it is most frequently found in anti-aging products, retinol is also beneficial for those with acne-prone skin as well. It can help keep your skin clear, improve the appearance of post-acne marks (also called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation), reduce the appearance of visible pores, and help to refine the skin's texture. 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Retinol helps to improve the appearance of skin by increasing the rate of skin cell turnover.

  • Retinol promotes the skin’s natural exfoliation process which helps to refine the skin's texture. This helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improve tone and texture, and improve the appearance of post-acne marks.

  • CeraVe’s retinol products are gentle enough to use every day. Whether you’re wondering how to use retinol for acne, or looking to add an anti-aging serum to your skincare routine, or minimize the look of hyperpigmentation, we have a retinol formula just for you.

  • Because retinol can break down when exposed to sunlight, we recommend storing your product in a cool, dark space. Retinol can make skin photosensitive, so we advise using your chosen product primarily at night, though products with retinol can be used during the day when combined with a sunscreen. Not sure how much retinol to use? When in doubt, follow the instructions on the packaging of your chosen retinol product.


    If you’re interested in pairing your retinol product with an AHA, we recommend consulting your dermatologist to determine if using these ingredients together is right for your skin, and the best way to use them together. When layered or alternated, the active profiles of AHA and retinol treatments can cause skin sensitization or discomfort for some users.

Skincare Solution Finder
TAKE THE QUIZ
Message
Download Chrome