With the exception of the neck and décolletage (Dr. Gross recommends using a retinol product formulated for the face on these areas), body skin is thicker than the skin on your face, so you can start incorporating a retinol body lotion two to three nights a week. “If your skin can tolerate it, increase the frequency of application until you’ve worked your way up to nightly application,” says Dr. Turner.
Remember that consistency is key here. “Our skin needs regular dosing of retinol in order to incorporate its positive changes,” Dr. Ferzli says. Keep in mind, though, that retinol is notorious for causing irritation, dryness, and redness, so you’ll want to gradually introduce it into your skin care routine, urges Dr. Turner. Because of this, he says it’s important to build a tolerance, and “look for formulas that include emollients like shea butter, squalane, and ceramides, which will help support the skin barrier and prevent water loss.”