When to Start Using a Retinoid, According to Dermatologists
NewBeauty Facebook Pinterest Instagram Youtube find a doctor Face Adult Acne Antioxidants Anti-Aging Celebrity Chronic Skin Conditions Eye Hydration Hyperpigmentation Makeup View All Eyebrows Eye Color Foundation Fragrance Lip Color Makeovers Male Skin Care Peels Pre-Event Prep Retinoids Sensitive Skin Skin Care Skin Health Smile Sun Care Treatments Fillers Microneedling Post-Procedure Skin Care Neurotoxins Regenerative Aesthetics Skin Lifting Body Body Sculpting Breasts Butts Cellulite Hair Removal Hands + Nails Legs Pregnancy Find a Doctor Hair Bond Repair Celebrity Dry Hair Frizzy Hair Gray Hair Hair Color Hair Growth Hair Repair Scalp Health Styling + Tips Awards NB100 Awards 15th Annual Beauty Awards 2025 NewBeauty Readers’ Choice Awards Shopping Gift Guides Product Reviews NewBeauty Storefront Wellness Fitness GLP-1s Health Menopause About Us TESTTUBE Search for: Search HomeFaceRetinoids When to Start Using a Retinoid, According to Dermatologists How to tell it’s time to start. Allie Hogan Published: Mar 20, 2026 We may earn commission from links on this page. Each product featured has been vetted and chosen by our editors. Kaboompics In This Article Featured ExpertsWhen to start using a retinoidSkin concerns that signal it's time to start a retinoidWhen to go to the doctor for a retinol prescription vs. buy it over the counterTips for beginners Retinoid products are widely considered the gold standard for addressing both signs of aging and acne. While they’re more widely used than ever, there’s still some confusion around retinoids, including which type to use and when to start. We asked top dermatologists what age and skin concerns signal it might be time to add a retinoid to your routine. While everyone’s skin is different, experts generally recommend beginning retinol use in your 20s. “Late 20s is the perfect time to start!” says Houston dermatologist Jennifer Segal, MD. Miami dermatologist Dr. Deborah Longwill notes that the…