Retinoid Guide Part 3: Are you making these Retinoid mistakes?

In Part 3, we recap on Retinoid Do's, Dont's and debunk some popular myths.

Skin Education | 

Written by: Farah. L

READERS’ PICKS

4 min read

 

Retinoid Series

We know that incorporating Retinoids into your routine for the first time can be challenging or even scary for some. When not properly formulated or used incorrectly, it can induce skin irritations and hinder the great benefits of retinoids. This series is really about eliminating some of these fears so you can be confident using this ingredient in your routine with ease.

 

 

If you haven’t already read Part 1 & Part 2 - we touched upon starting your retinoid journey, how to use them and what key mistakes to avoid.

In Part 3, we revisit the “Do’s and Don’ts” of using retinoids and debunk some popular myths.

 

First Up: A Recap on Retinoid Don'ts

 

 

                               Fig. 1


Retinoid Dos: 



Always wear high SPF sunscreen

Always use a small controlled amount of product

Always start slowly and buffer

Always use alongside barrier supportive products



Retinoid Myths


I heard that we cannot use retinoids during the day and in summer?


Retinoids can be used both AM/PM. However, most retinoids will be labelled for PM use as sunlight can degrade Vitamin A easily, especially if you are not using adequate sunscreen.


If you are using these in summer and during the day, using them alongside adequate sun protection will be essential. Retinoids increase the sensitivity of the skin to the sun and a lack of sun protection can increase the risk of skin irritation and sunburn. 


Is it true that retinoids are exfoliants?


No, retinoids stimulate or normalise cellular turnover so that your skin smoothes over a period of time; they do not slough off the shedding outer layer of skin. Exfoilants work by a different mechanism which loosens the bonds that hold the shedding outer skin layer together, causing them to slough off easily.


I also heard that retinoids and exfoliants cannot be used in the same routine?

That's not entirely true. When you first start your new Retinoid treatments you will want to naturally avoid exfoliants to avoid the risk of irritation, redness, sensitivity and dryness. However over time, your skin will become acclimated to your retinoid. These side effects will disappear as your skin gets used to your retinoid treatment and this might then be a good time to introduce exfoliants back into your routine. Both retinoids and exfoliants can have remarkable skin smoothing and clarifying effects on the skin but they also have similar side effects so you will want to manage how often you use them in your weekly routine, the best way being to alternate days of use in order to avoid the risk of irritation. 

We also recommend keeping the rest of your routine as simple as possible initially when starting a new product like a retinoid to see how your skin responds and what is the best frequency of use for you.

 

Can retinoids thin the skin?


Retinoids do not “thin” the skin in a way you might be thinking. In fact, they help stimulate the cellular renewal process, boost collagen and thicken the skin in the dermis which in turn helps address fine lines, wrinkles and makes the skin healthier looking. This is why many notice a skin-smoothening effect when using Retinoids. 

They do however thin the outermost layer of  "dead" or "shedding" skin otherwise known as the stratum corneum which can actually help with the penetration of active ingredients (like Triphala Pigmentation Corrector). But you will want to be careful not to overuse retinoids and disrupt the skin's natural barrier mechanism.


Is it true that all retinoids work the same?

 

Different retinoid molecules work with different levels of potency - this will depend on the conversion process and if the retinoid takes longer to convert to Retinoid Acid. For example, when retinol is applied topically to the skin, the enzymes in our skin will convert the retinol into retinaldehyde and then into retinoic acid, which in turn means the results are slower with fewer side effects. Retinaldehyde is regarded as being more potent than retinol as it is only a 1 step conversion to Retinoic Acid (see our diagram in Part 1), although it's important to remember that the overall formula is what matters.

 

    
 
 
Stay tuned to Part 4 of our Retinoid Series, where we explain and illustrate an in-depth PM retinoid routine and introduce different retinoid combinations to maximise its skin benefits.

Let's talk

YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN

Search

Shopping Cart

Your cart is currently empty.
Shop now
  • Product Reviews
  • Site Reviews
31 Jul 2025
Blessing I.
United Kingdom
Impressive works great
Triphala Pigmentation Corrector - 30ml
24 Jul 2025
Sunita K.
United Kingdom
This product seems to work on my skin , as I have hyperpigmentation and malasma.. coupled with sensitive skin.
Pro Resilience® Serum - 60ml
23 Jul 2025
Ayokusibe O.
United States
I like that it didnt sting and the texture It absorbs well into the skin, and I noticed a more even skin tone after about two weeks. I need to make this a staple in my routine.
Triphala Pigmentation Corrector - 30ml
17 Jul 2025
Aashna S.
Greece
I tried this for the first time, recommended by my facialist at Ställe Studios, and it truly has changed my skin. I have suffered from hyperpigmentation my entire adolescent life into adulthood and this has been the only thing that has reduced or completely eliminated their appearance. The way it...I tried this for the first time, recommended by my facialist at Ställe Studios, and it truly has changed my skin. I have suffered from hyperpigmentation my entire adolescent life into adulthood and this has been the only thing that has reduced or completely eliminated their appearance. The way it layers as well is magical, I’ve never experienced any pilling as I have with other serums. If you are debating purchasing, this is your sign to try, it’s a must.
Triphala Pigmentation Corrector - 30ml
17 Jul 2025
Asabi O.
United Kingdom
I have melasma that flares up every now and then, nothing realky works for it. I have tried many products over the years to manage it. TPC is slowly making a difference to the overall appearance of my face. I have high expectations and will continue to to consistent with this product.
Triphala Pigmentation Corrector - 30ml
11 Jul 2025
STEPHANIE A.
France
This treatment has been a true turning point for my skin. I’m now on my fifth bottle — it’s that good. It gently yet effectively brightens dark spots, calms sensitivity, firms, and renews overnight. The formula feels luxurious, with stabilized retinal and liposomal ursolic acid backed by soothing...This treatment has been a true turning point for my skin. I’m now on my fifth bottle — it’s that good. It gently yet effectively brightens dark spots, calms sensitivity, firms, and renews overnight. The formula feels luxurious, with stabilized retinal and liposomal ursolic acid backed by soothing Ayurvedic botanicals. If you’re looking for a high-performance night treatment you can truly rely on, I can’t recommend this one enough. When a product performs this beautifully, you keep coming back. It becomes your remedy, your go-to, your essential. ♥︎
Ursolic Acid & Retinal Overnight Reform - 30ml
09 Jul 2025
Bart
Spain
This is my favorite morning cleanser as of late. It's so beyond lush in consistency and generates soft lather which manages to successfully remove all impurities and leave the skin feeling comfortably hydrated. It's rare for me to embrace a creamy, nourishing wash but at 45, my skin craves the...This is my favorite morning cleanser as of late. It's so beyond lush in consistency and generates soft lather which manages to successfully remove all impurities and leave the skin feeling comfortably hydrated. It's rare for me to embrace a creamy, nourishing wash but at 45, my skin craves the comfort element of cleansing. This one delivers on all fronts.
Saponins Cream Cleanser - 120ml
06 Jul 2025
Amy M.
United Kingdom
Pro Resilience serum- Amazing product and amazing customer service I was struggling with dry flakey skin after trying prescription retinol which I think had damaged my skin barrier. This product has not only given me back my glow, but also helped with fine lines. I wouldn’t be without it now!
Pro Resilience® Serum - 30ml
02 Jul 2025
Iman K.
Ireland
This serum on its own gives my skin the most gorgeous glow & it feels so hydrated. Great for summer to help with hyperpigmentation btw
Triphala Pigmentation Corrector - 30ml
01 Jul 2025
Jenna
United Kingdom
At the end of last year, I was really struggling with terrible adult acne. I tried absolutely everything -countless products, routines, and advice - and nothing seemed to help. I was losing hope and had started to accept that this was just my skin now. Then a dear friend, knowing what I was going...At the end of last year, I was really struggling with terrible adult acne. I tried absolutely everything -countless products, routines, and advice - and nothing seemed to help. I was losing hope and had started to accept that this was just my skin now. Then a dear friend, knowing what I was going through, recommended the Sachi Skin Triphala Pigmentation Corrector. I figured I had nothing to lose, so I gave it a try and I’m sooooo glad I did. Within 3 months, I saw a real transformation. My acne and redness calmed down significantly, my skin texture improved, and the stubborn post-acne hyperpigmentation started to fade. My skin looked and felt healthier, calmer and genuinely happier. I'm now on my 4th bottle, and I can't imagine my routine without it. TPC has become a holy grail for me - an absolute must-have. Forever grateful to my friend for introducing me to this game-changing product!
Triphala Pigmentation Corrector - 30ml
26 Jun 2025
Maya M.
United States
I have been using Sachi Skin since last year and it has truly transformed my skin. I have a natural and healthy glow. They have some of my favorite moisturizers that don’t cause black heads or break you out. All of their products are very light. Sachi is one of my favorite skincare brands out there...I have been using Sachi Skin since last year and it has truly transformed my skin. I have a natural and healthy glow. They have some of my favorite moisturizers that don’t cause black heads or break you out. All of their products are very light. Sachi is one of my favorite skincare brands out there right now, especially for women of color.
Ursolic Acid & Retinal Overnight Reform - 30ml
20 Jun 2025
Catherine
United States
My holy grail serum! Multitasking, soothing, effective and elegant. I really notice the difference in my skin sensitivity when I use it vs. whenever I run out. An absolute must try for anyone with sensitive skin.
Pro Resilience® Serum - 60ml
18 Jun 2025
Sarah
United States
I’m on my third month of using this serum and I only have good things to say. My skin is sensitive, so I don’t always have the best experience with starting new products, but the Pro Resilience serum is amazing! My skin is now very hydrated and it calms any redness I might have. I use it morning...I’m on my third month of using this serum and I only have good things to say. My skin is sensitive, so I don’t always have the best experience with starting new products, but the Pro Resilience serum is amazing! My skin is now very hydrated and it calms any redness I might have. I use it morning and night, and I especially like it after using an exfoliant that might leave my skin feeling a little more prone to redness. This is the first Sachi product I’ve used, and I’m excited to try more.
Pro Resilience® Serum - 30ml
17 Jun 2025
Elizabeth B.
France
I was using tretinoin and my skin just wasn't tolerating it, red, peeling, super sensitive, no matter how I introduced or layered it. Stopped completely and introduced this duo over a few weeks and my skin is so much happier, hydrated and even.
You Set the Tone Duo II
16 Jun 2025
Donnesha
United States
Can’t wait to use this and see the results
Complexion Clarifying Accelerator - 30ml
16 Jun 2025
Donnesha
United States
Heard great things and super excited to try it
Pro Resilience® Serum - 30ml
05 Jun 2025
Louise
United Kingdom
I have stubborn hyperpigmentation/melasma and an uneven skin tone prone to redness. Using this serum daily for just over a month and I've definitely noticed an improvement in dark spots and an overall more radiant even complexion with no downtime/irritation. Being 40+ I prefer to opt for a lighter...I have stubborn hyperpigmentation/melasma and an uneven skin tone prone to redness. Using this serum daily for just over a month and I've definitely noticed an improvement in dark spots and an overall more radiant even complexion with no downtime/irritation. Being 40+ I prefer to opt for a lighter coverage makeup base and this serum has really helped give me the confidence to do so. I've used so many products over the years that make big claims and deliver nothing so I'm genuinely thrilled with this product and looking forward to seeing how my skin continues to respond with ongoing use.
Triphala Pigmentation Corrector - 30ml
05 Jun 2025
Naomi
United Kingdom
This is a lovely formula that seems to be working well on my old PIH marks - I will continue to use it and hopefully be able to capture photographic progress!
Triphala Pigmentation Corrector - 30ml
05 Jun 2025
Naomi
United Kingdom
This is a lovely formula that seems to be working on my old PIH marks - I'm going to keep using it and will hopefully be able to capture progress in photos!
Triphala Pigmentation Corrector - 30ml
24 May 2025
R
United States
I've been using Sachi products for a while now and really enjoy using the Pro Resilience Serum to combat redness and breakouts that begin to surface. I love that it gives a boost of hydration as well!
Pro Resilience® Serum - 30ml
21 May 2025
Kay
This product has been a must buy for years. I change other skincare often to try new things but never changing this. Makes my skin glow and helps fade pigmentation.
Triphala Pigmentation Corrector - 30ml
21 May 2025
Kay
United Kingdom
This product has been a must buy for years. I change other skincare often to try new things but never changing this. Makes my skin glow and helps fade pigmentation.
Triphala Pigmentation Corrector - 30ml
16 May 2025
Velma C.
United Kingdom
My skin feels and looks so much better since I’ve been using this range of skin products. I’m now layering CCA & UAR together, which is an added bonus. 😍
Complexion Clarifying Accelerator - 30ml
05 May 2025
Marichu
United Kingdom
No doubt this is the bestseller from Sachi Skin's range. The TPC is that GOAT product for me! I have been consistenly using the product for the past 2 years and it has massively helped with my hyperpigmentation. Highly highly recommend!
Triphala Pigmentation Corrector - 30ml
05 May 2025
Marichu
United Kingdom
Another staple product in my skincare routine. I've been repurchasing the CCA for the past 2 years now and it's of those products I can't live without. It has helped with my congested acne-prone skin. I've been using it twice a week alternating with my UAR.
Complexion Clarifying Accelerator - 30ml
05 May 2025
Marichu
United Kingdom
I've been repurchasing TPC and UAR duo for the past 2 years now. These products are staple in my routine. They've helped with my acne-prone skin, fade hyperpigmentation, and smoothes the texture of my skin. Highly recommend!
You Set the Tone Duo II
01 May 2025
Steve
United Kingdom
Just opened another bottle of this and wow. It’s just fantastic. Nothing else calms and plumps my skin like this does. It really is insanely good.
Pro Resilience® Serum - 30ml
30 Apr 2025
Yvonne O.
Ireland
It’s quite a good experience
Triphala Pigmentation Corrector - 30ml
28 Apr 2025
Kateryna H.
Estonia
I really enjoyed using this product. The texture is lightweight and absorbs quickly without leaving any sticky or heavy feeling on the skin. Even after the first few uses, I noticed my skin felt smoother, firmer, and my complexion looked more even. It works gently without causing major irritation,...I really enjoyed using this product. The texture is lightweight and absorbs quickly without leaving any sticky or heavy feeling on the skin. Even after the first few uses, I noticed my skin felt smoother, firmer, and my complexion looked more even. It works gently without causing major irritation, which is especially important when using retinal. In the morning, my skin looks refreshed, well-rested, and hydrated. Overall, this product exceeded my expectations — it effectively renews the skin overnight and is suitable for regular use.
Ursolic Acid & Retinal Overnight Reform - 30ml
27 Apr 2025
Olivia L.
United States
Using this consistently has definitely helped with the congestion in my skin, which in turn is reducing the amount of breakouts I have. The ones that do pop up are much more manageable. The texture itself is lovely and doesn’t irritate my skin. Would highly recommend!
Complexion Clarifying Accelerator - 30ml
REVIEWS