Retinol, reimagined for sensitive skin

Retinol is the gold standard for smoothing fine lines and improving texture—but sensitive skin types (think DSNT, DSNW, OSNT, OSPW) need a gentler, strategic approach. Start with barrier-first care, then step up to vitamin A.

Gentle picks to begin

• IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Redness Serum — a calming serum with colloidal oatmeal and a touch of retinyl palmitate (a milder vitamin A) to acclimate reactive skin.
• La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair — barrier-strengthening moisturizer ideal for the “sandwich” method with retinoids.

How to use (no flakes, all glow)

1. Night only, pea-size: Apply a pea-size of retinoid to clean, dry skin.
2. Sandwich method: Moisturizer → retinoid → moisturizer (use Toleriane as your buffer).
3. Start slow: 1–2x/week for 2 weeks, then increase as tolerated.
4. Avoid mixing with strong acids on the same night; always wear SPF in the morning.
5. Pause if stinging/peeling persists; rebuild barrier, then resume.

Not sure of your Baumann skin type? Take the SkinGuide test to personalize your retinoid plan.