Exfoliation vs Retinol: How to Use Retinol and Exfoliation Together
Contrary to what a lot of people think, it’s not a matter of choosing between exfoliation vs Retinol. These two types of ingredients go hand-in-hand. You just need to know how to use Retinol and exfoliation together, and that’s what we’re here to talk about today.
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells sitting on the surface, clearing buildup that causes rough texture, dull tone, and clogged pores. Retinol works deeper, telling the skin to make new cells faster and build collagen over time.
Here’s where they’re different - exfoliation clears what’s already there, while Retinol changes how skin behaves going forward. Think about it like this: exfoliation preps the skin so Retinol can work more evenly and predictably.
Naturopathica offers exfoliants like our enzyme peels and a whole range of Retinol and Bakuchiol products, so you can start tapping into the benefits of these skincare products today. Shop now or get in touch for help building out your routine.
“I was scared to use retinol for the first time but my skin has responded to this with no issues whatsoever. It’s gentle enough, I have no irritation, but I’m also seeing smoother skin.” - Sonia
“What a difference Naturopathica has made with my skin! I especially love this night cream and the Camomile Cleansing Milk.” - Donna
“I've been a faithful Naturopathica customer for over 10 years.” - Melissa
Key Takeaways on Retinol and Exfoliation
- Retinol and exfoliation do different jobs. Exfoliation removes dead surface cells, while Retinol changes how new skin cells are formed and released.
- They should be used TOGETHER, but on separate nights - usually, with a buffer day in between to let skin recover.
- Naturopathica has the exfoliants and Retinol formulas you need to bring out the best in your skin. Shop enzyme peels, Retinol creams, and more today.
Benefits of Regular Exfoliation
Exfoliation removes the dead skin cells that naturally collect on the surface. Those cells can create rough texture, dull tone, and uneven skincare absorption or makeup wear when they don’t shed on schedule. Here’s how regular exfoliation can help:
- Clearing surface buildup reduces flaking and rough patches
- Improving skin smoothness helps makeup and sunscreen apply evenly
- Reducing clogged pores from dead cells mixing with oil and trapped debris
- Brightening tone, as old cells scatter light and make skin look flat
- Supporting consistent cell turnover so skin sheds at a healthy rate
- Lowering the risk of congestion, especially in areas prone to buildup
It’s important to note the differences between physical vs chemical exfoliation. Scrubs (physical exfoliation) rely on friction and can scratch compromised skin. Strong acids (chemical) work fast but come with their own risk of irritation.
That’s why we think enzyme peels are the best way to exfoliate the skin.
They’re more controlled and much gentler on the skin since they use fruit-derived enzymes to break down ONLY dead cells. They stop working once those cells are gone, and don’t rely on pressure or abrasion. But does Retinol count as exfoliation?
Does Retinol Count as Exfoliation?
This Vitamin A derivative works inside the skin to speed up skin cell turnover and encourage new cell production. But the important distinction between exfoliation vs Retinol is that this ingredient doesn’t just act on the surface. It works internally to change how quickly skin produces/sheds cells over time. Here are some reasons to include Retinol in your lineup:
- Increasing cell turnover to minimize dullness and uneven texture
- Supporting collagen production for better firmness and elasticity
- Softening fine lines as newer cells replace older, compacted ones
- Helping regulate oil flow to reduce congestion over time
- Improving tone consistency, especially in skin affected by sun exposure
So does Retinol count as exfoliation? You’re probably seeing quite a bit of overlap between exfoliation vs Retinol, after all. But the short answer is no, at least, not in the direct sense.
Retinol doesn’t dissolve or remove dead skin cells sitting on the surface. It just tells the skin to make new cells faster, which eventually pushes older cells upward. So, those dead cells can still linger on the surface and cause rough texture - and they won’t let Retinol fully absorb to work its magic, either. This is to say, you need Retinol and exfoliation together.
Exfoliation vs Retinol: Key Differences to Consider
Retinol and exfoliation work very differently to help improve the texture, tone, and overall health of your skin. Here’s where exfoliation vs Retinol diverges.
Where They Work on the Skin
Exfoliation works on the surface to remove dead skin cells that have already formed. Retinol works below the surface, influencing how new skin cells are created and how fast they move upward. This is the most important distinction between exfoliation vs Retinol.
How Results Show Up
Exfoliation has an immediate impact you can feel and see - smoother texture, less flaking, and better product application. It’s common to see a change in your skin’s appearance the very same day.
Retinol works more gradually. It takes a few weeks to see visible improvements in tone, firmness, and fine lines. Exfoliation vs Retinol is about short-term vs long-term skincare in this sense.
Risk of Irritation
Exfoliation can cause irritation when overused or too aggressive, especially with scrubs or strong acids. But that’s why choosing the right form of exfoliation is so important. Our Pumpkin Enzyme Peel and Sweet Cherry Enzyme Peel can be very gentle when used correctly.
On the other hand, Retinol can cause dryness, peeling, or sensitivity during the adjustment phase. This is most prominent when you introduce it in too high a concentration, too quickly. Our products at Naturopathica, like our Argan and Retinol Wrinkle Cream, are made for gentle absorption.
Frequency of Use
Another important difference between Retinol and exfoliation is how often you’ll use each. Most people only need to exfoliate one to three times per week, depending on strength and skin type. Retinol is often used two to four nights per week. That said, neither should be used every day.
Impact on the Skin Barrier
Exfoliation temporarily thins the surface layer, which can feel refreshing or sensitizing depending on timing. Retinol can weaken barrier function early on, so proper spacing and moisturization is not to be taken lightly. We’ll talk about this in just a moment to help you use them safely.
Role in a Routine
This is the key takeaway on exfoliation vs Retinol: they’re each an important part of a skincare routine. Exfoliation clears the path so skincare (including Retinol) applies evenly. Retinol reshapes long-term skin behavior. They complement each other instead of competing.
How to Use Retinol and Exfoliation Together: Sample Schedule
The goal when using Retinol and exfoliation together is to clear the surface buildup (exfoliation) so that active ingredients can do their job more effectively (Retinol). Here’s a weekly rhythm we’ve found works really well:
- Monday – Retinol Night: Cleanse, apply Retinol to dry skin, then follow with a simple moisturizer. Skip exfoliation entirely on Retinol nights.
- Tuesday – Recovery Night: Cleanse and moisturize only so the skin barrier has time to stabilize after Retinol application the night prior.
- Wednesday – Exfoliation Night: Use a gentle exfoliant, preferably an enzyme peel. Rinse thoroughly, then apply a hydrating serum and moisturizer. No Retinol this night.
- Thursday – Recovery Night: Cleanse and moisturize. This buffer day prevents overlap irritation.
- Friday – Retinol Night: Repeat Monday’s routine. Shorten contact time or reduce frequency if skin feels tight or sensitive.
- Weekend – Flexible: One night can be hydration-only, and the other can repeat exfoliation or Retinol depending on how skin feels.
The key takeaway is to never use both on the same night. And never use Retinol during the day as it can make your skin more reactive to UV rays from the sun. Just exfoliate 1-2 nights per week, use Retinol 2-3 times a week, and include recovery days between.
This way, exfoliation keeps the surface clear while retinol does its deeper work without unnecessary irritation. Take the next step with our formulas at Naturopathica!
Final Words on the Ideal Retinol and Exfoliation Schedule
Just like with cleansing vs exfoliating, it’s not a matter of choosing between exfoliation vs Retinol. You need both to bring out the full potential of your skin. Hopefully, you feel more confident in how to use Retinol and exfoliation together for the best of both worlds!
Our blog has more resources comparing Retinol vs Vitamin C or Hyaluronic Acid vs Retinol if you’re curious about other common skincare ingredients. Otherwise, it’s time to take the next step towards your best skin yet at Naturopathica. Shop now and find the exfoliants and Retinol formulas your skin is craving!
Frequently asked questions
What form of Retinol is best?
Encapsulated or low-strength Retinol works best for most people because it releases slowly and minimizes the risk of irritation while still supporting cell turnover.
Do you use Retinol during the day or at night?
It should be used as part of your evening routine because light and heat reduce its stability and increase sensitivity during daytime exposure.
How soon will I see results from Retinol?
People see texture changes in 3-4 weeks, but improvements in tone and fine lines can take a few months of consistent use - alongside other skincare changes.
Is Retinol a chemical exfoliant?
No. It doesn’t remove dead skin cells from the surface, which is the biggest distinction between exfoliation vs Retinol. It just impacts how fast new cells are made and shed.
Can Retinol help with wrinkles?
Yes. Retinol supports collagen production so it can help soften fine lines and improve how firm skin is over time.
Is it safe to use AHA/BHA if you use Retinol already?
Yes, as long as they are used on separate nights and frequency is kept low to avoid irritation. Follow our tips above on using Retinol and exfoliation in the same routine.
Is Retinol better than exfoliation?
They do different jobs. Exfoliation clears surface buildup, while Retinol changes long-term skin renewal. You need both for the best results!
How often should you use Retinol and exfoliation?
Retinol is typically used two to four nights per week, while exfoliation works best one to two nights weekly on non-Retinol days. It’s important to have a buffer day in between!
What skin types should avoid Retinol?
Very reactive, compromised, or medically sensitized skin may need to avoid Retinol or use it only under professional guidance.