What to expect from topical retinoids for sun-damaged skin

Sun-damaged skin may become rough, uneven in colour, and less resilient over time. Retinoids influence skin-cell turnover and support more even shedding, which can soften texture and make some lines or blotchy areas less noticeable. Early dryness, redness, flaking, or stinging is possible. Improvement is gradual, and a retinoid cannot reverse every visible change or replace protection from ultraviolet light.

Apply a thin layer at night to clean, dry skin, using the schedule your clinician recommends. Begin cautiously if your skin is sensitive, and apply moisturiser to ease dryness. Use broad-spectrum sun protection, shade, and protective clothing during the day; otherwise treated skin may become more irritated and new pigmentation can develop. Avoid waxing, harsh scrubs, and several irritating active products together unless your clinician has planned the combination. Follow pregnancy and breastfeeding advice for the specific product.

Get medical advice for severe burning, swelling, blistering, crusting, or a persistent rash. Have any rough, scaly, bleeding, or changing spot examined rather than treating it as ordinary photoaging. A review is also useful when irritation prevents regular use or the appearance is not improving as expected.

Ask which retinoid suits your goals, how often to apply it, which moisturiser and sunscreen to choose, and which products to separate from it. Ask how to distinguish expected adjustment from a reaction and whether a changing spot needs examination.