The short answer is — yes, you can.
Summer itself is not a contraindication to using retinol or other retinoids. However, during the summer it is especially important to consider two factors: the intensity of ultraviolet radiation and the potential for skin irritation associated with retinoid use.
First of all: what do we actually mean by retinol?
In cosmetics, the word “retinol” is often used to refer to an entire group of vitamin A derivatives — retinoids. However, there are significant differences between them in terms of activity and tolerability.
The main forms you may encounter in cosmetic products include:
Retinyl esters — retinol esters
Retinyl Palmitate, Retinyl Acetate, and others. These are the gentlest, but at the same time the least active, vitamin A derivatives. You should not expect an effect comparable to that of classic retinol or retinal.
Retinol — retinol
The best-known cosmetic form. It is used to address signs of photoaging, uneven skin texture, and pigmentation.
Retinal / Retinaldehyde — retinal
One conversion step closer to active retinoic acid than retinol. It can be effective at lower concentrations.
Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate — HPR
A modern vitamin A derivative that is often used in products designed to provide better tolerability.
Retinyl Retinoate
A hybrid retinoid form that can also be found in modern cosmetic products.
So, can you use retinol in summer?
Yes.
However, retinoid use and proper sun protection should go hand in hand — especially during the summer.
Use a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen every day on exposed areas of the skin. If you spend a long time outdoors, sunscreen should be reapplied.
This is particularly important because skin irritated by retinoids may tolerate additional sun exposure less well, while ultraviolet radiation itself contributes to pigmentation and photoaging — working directly against the results we usually aim to achieve with retinoids.
The retinoid itself should be used only as part of your evening routine.
How should you start?
The main rule is — start gradually.
If you have never used retinoids before, there is no need to start with a high concentration or daily application.
An approximate schedule:
— first 14 days — once every 3 days;
— the following 3 weeks — every other day;
— thereafter, if well tolerated, gradually increase the frequency up to daily use.
However, daily use is not an obligatory end goal. For some people, individualized intervals may be more comfortable: for example, 2 days of use / 1 day off or 5 days / 2 days off.
Days off give the skin time to adapt. Especially at the beginning, there is no need to fill these days with other active ingredients such as acids, peels, or scrubs.
What concentration should you start with?
For beginners, it is more reasonable to choose lower concentrations.
For classic Retinol — approximately 0.1–0.3%.
For Retinal — approximately 0.05%.
The concentration should only be increased after the skin has fully adapted to the previous level.
And it is important to remember: more ≠ better. Redness, pronounced peeling, and burning are not indicators that a product is “working well.”
What if you have sensitive skin?
Retinoids require a well-established basic skincare routine regardless of skin type, but this is particularly important for sensitive skin.
During the adaptation period, avoid:
— harsh cleansing;
— scrubs;
— at-home peels;
— frequent use of acids;
— any products that already cause dryness or irritation.
Keep your routine simple: gentle cleansing, a moisturizer, and daily sun protection.
Ideally, a restorative moisturizer should contain physiological lipids — for example, ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids, which help support the skin barrier.
If your skin is very sensitive, you have rosacea or dermatitis, or you have repeatedly experienced significant irritation from retinoids, the form, concentration, and frequency of use are best selected together with a dermatologist.
What about pregnancy?
The rules change here.
Retinoids should not be used during pregnancy. This applies not only to systemic medications but also to topical retinoids: because of potential risks, their use during pregnancy is not recommended.
However, this does not mean that you have to completely stop using active skincare.
Depending on the goal, alternatives may include:
Azelaic acid — one of the main options for acne and hyperpigmentation during pregnancy.
Niacinamide — can support the skin barrier, reduce inflammation, and help improve uneven skin tone.
Vitamin C — an antioxidant and an additional component of skincare for hyperpigmentation.
Peptides — can be used as part of an anti-aging routine, although you should not expect them to fully reproduce the effects of retinoids.
Bakuchiol is often marketed as an alternative to retinol; however, there is significantly less data on its use during pregnancy. Therefore, I would not place it on the same level as better-studied ingredients simply because it is “plant-based.”