Retinol Myths, Debunked: 5 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Retinol

As Vitamin A-derived retinol continues to rise in popularity, so do the myths surround it. This is largely due to skinfluencers spreading misleading skincare advice under the guise of expertise. So today, we’re setting the record straight and debunking five of the most common retinol myths we see circulating online.

MYTH 1: Retinol can’t be used during the day

Despite what you may have heard, most non-prescription retinol is safe to use in the daytime. The key? Always follow with broad-spectrum SPF which you should be wearing daily regardless (no excuses!).

Our High Potency Triple Retinol Renewal Serum is specifically designed for both day and night use, helping to visibly reduce fine lines, wrinkles and uneven texture all without the irritation commonly associated with traditional retinol products.

This is thanks to our unique triple-ingredient blend featuring triple retinol, beta-carotene, and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10).

The triple retinol complex includes encapsulated retinol, retinol ester and phyto-retinol for stable, effective delivery and absorption. Beta-carotene helps protect and support retinol activity, while antioxidant powerhouse CoQ10 neutralises free radicals, improving skin resilience.

Together, this formula boosts skin surface renewal in just 3 days, according to a clinical study of 38 women. That’s real science, not just hype.

MYTH 2: Retinol will thin your skin

Some people confuse the mild peeling caused by initial retinol use with skin “thinning.” In fact, the opposite is true.

Retinol promotes healthy cell turnover, which helps exfoliate the outer layer of skin, removing dull, dead cells and encouraging new, plumper skin to surface. Over time, this results in stronger, firmer, and smoother skin, not thinner.

MYTH 3: You shouldn’t use retinol around your eyes

It’s true that the skin around your eyes is delicate, but it’s also where the first visible signs of ageing tend to appear, including crow’s feet, fine lines and puffiness.

That’s exactly why we developed our High Potency Triple Retinol Renewal Eye Serum, which is formulated to treat this sensitive area without the usual irritation associated with retinol.

Using the same sensitive-skin-approved blend of triple retinol, beta-carotene and CoQ10, it’s gentle enough for morning and night use. With consistent application, it visibly reduces dark circles, crow’s feet and under-eye puffiness, leaving the eye area smoother and firmer.

MYTH 4: Retinol is only for mature skin

While retinol is well known for targeting visible signs of ageing like wrinkles and loss of firmness, its benefits go far beyond that.

Retinol also helps prevent future signs of ageing, making it ideal for adults of all ages. It works to unclog pores, reduce breakouts, fade dark spots, minimise sun damage, and protect against environmental stress, benefits that aren’t exclusive to mature skin.

In fact, alongside daily sunscreen, retinol is one of the most effective ingredients for long-term skin health and resilience.

MYTH 5: You can’t use retinol and vitamin C together

There’s a common rumour that vitamin C and retinol can’t be combined, but it’s not true, you just need to use them correctly.

If layering, wait at least 30 minutes between applying vitamin C and retinol. Or better still, use vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night.

An even better pairing? Our Vitamin C Ester, a potent yet gentle form of traditional vitamin C. It delivers enhanced brightening and smoothing benefits with less irritation.

When used alongside retinol, both ingredients amplify each other’s results, leaving you with dramatically smoother, more radiant and even-toned skin.

Conclusion: 5 Retinol Myths, Busted

So there you have it: five of the most common myths about retinol, thoroughly debunked. Not just for fun, but for the sake of your skin’s long-term health.

Whether you're new to retinol or looking to fine-tune your routine, choosing the right formulation is key. Our gentle, clinically proven retinol serums are formulated to deliver visible results, fast, without irritation. Your skin (today, tomorrow, and years from now) will thank you.