Try a Retinol Alternative
Those with retinol sensitivity might have fewer side effects with retinol alternatives, such as bakuchiol. Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Rita Linkner of Spring Street Dermatology in New York City suggests the Rodan + Fields Redefine Overnight Restorative Cream, $90, as a great product to be used as a barrier and retinoid layer. It is formulated with bakuchiol as well as calming niacinamide to create an even skin tone.
Should You Use Retinol on Wind-burned Skin?
It's a wise idea not to. Linkner advises skipping retinol during the night if the skin is wind-burned so as to not aggravate that sensitive face. Start using retinol again after skin returns to normal and reintroduce it slowly, as per Wesley.
Think about it this way: "Retinol can be used on sensitive skin, which can be red," says Polla. "However, retinol is best not used on sensitized skin — meaning skin that has been made sensitive by another product, a professional treatment, or wind or sun burn."
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Winter Skin Care Tips: Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize
Skin needs hydration, especially in winter. Gohara recommends using products that help skin maintain its moisture levels, like the Fresh Chemistry Glow Getter Brightening Serum Set, $75. It's rich in hyaluronic acid and features stabilized vitamin C that's activated on use.
Shorten Shower Times
As much as you might love a long, hot, steamy shower in the cold, Linkner says that it's best to shorten showering times to less than five minutes(!) to not be as drying and stripping on skin.
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Try a Richer, Gentler Cleanser
Polla encourages switching from a foam cleanser to a cream cleanser because the latter is less stripping on skin. Similarly, try incorporating nourishing creams into other skin care steps. Those who are very dry can add face oils. Wesley suggests trying an oil cleanser or micellar water, too.
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