If there’s one skincare ingredient that dermatologists and skin experts consistently rave about, it’s retinol. It’s known as the gold standard in anti-aging, retinol has the power to improve fine lines, brighten skin tone, and boost collagen. If you pressed pause on using retinol this summer, you’re not alone. As the weather starts to cool off in September and you aren’t planning on being outside exposed to the sun as often it’s the perfect time to reintroduce retinol into your routine.
Why We Hit Pause on Retinol in the Summer
During the sunnier months, many people scale back or completely stop using retinol. The reason is simple: retinol increases your skin’s sensitivity to UV rays. That means even small amounts of sun exposure can lead to redness, peeling, or irritation. Pair that with hours spent outdoors at the pool, lake, or beach, and it’s easy to see why retinol often takes a summer break.
Why Fall is the Best Season to Restart Retinol
The transition from summer to fall is all about repair and renewal. After months of heat and UV exposure, most people notice more visible signs of sun damage, like dark spots, uneven texture, and fine lines. This is where retinol shines.
As the days get shorter and sun intensity decreases, the risk of irritation from retinol goes down. Cooler weather and more time indoors create the perfect environment to allow your skin to adjust and benefit from this transformative ingredient. Think of fall as the ideal “reset button” for your skincare routine.
The Benefits of Retinol
If you’re new to retinol or need a refresher on why it’s so important, here’s what makes it a must-have:
- Softens fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating collagen production.
- Improves skin texture and tone, giving your complexion a smoother, more even look.
- Fades sunspots and hyperpigmentation left behind from the summer.
- Prevents premature aging by encouraging healthy skin cell turnover.
In short: retinol is one of the most effective ways to keep your skin looking youthful, clear, and radiant long-term.
How to Reintroduce Retinol the Right Way
Retinol is powerful, but it can also be drying if used incorrectly. Here are a few tips to ease it back into your routine this fall:
- Start slow—use it just 2–3 nights a week, then increase as your skin adjusts.
- Always apply retinol at night (it breaks down in sunlight).
- Follow up with a rich moisturizer to support your skin barrier.
- Don’t skip SPF the next morning—yes, even in the fall!
Pairing Retinol with In-Office Treatments
Want to take your results to the next level? Retinol pairs beautifully with professional treatments that also target sun damage and skin texture. Treatments like Scitons Moxi, BBL, and ClearSilk. Also, when paired with microneedling or chemical peels, retinol can help brighten and rejuvenate your skin even more effectively.
Our Favorite Medical-Grade Retinols
Not all retinol products are created equal. Over-the-counter versions may be too weak to deliver visible results, while medical-grade formulas are specifically designed to penetrate deeper and work more effectively. At Live Young Wellness Spa, we recommend:
- Alastin Renewal Retinol – available in different strengths .25 or .5, making it perfect for first-time or experienced retinol users.
- ZO Skin Health Wrinkle and Texture Repair – excellent for tackling pigmentation and uneven skin tone.
Ready to Restart Your Retinol Routine?
This fall, give your skin the chance to reset, repair, and glow with the help of retinol. Not sure where to start? Our team at Live Young Wellness Spa can recommend the right formula and pair it with an in-office treatment plan designed just for you. Call your home Live Young location today or stop by to pick up your medical-grade retinol. Your best fall skin starts now. We have locations in Flower Mound, Castle Hills, Allen, Prosper, Argyle, and Fort Worth, TX!
