Can You Use Tretinoin in The Summer?

Can You Use Tretinoin in The Summer?

• There’s a lot to love about living in the Middle East, and the weather is certainly high up on the list. With sunshine practically all year round, every day feels like a beach day. But whether you’re a devoted sun worshipper or prefer to hide in the shade, everyone needs to take care of their skin.
• As we transition from the cooler months into steadily rising temperatures, now’s the perfect moment to rethink your skincare strategy. At ilik, we understand that abundant sunshine comes with unique skincare challenges – especially when powerful ingredients such tretinoin enter the picture. If you've heard whispers (or loud warnings) that tretinoin and the Middle Eastern sun don't mix, you might wonder if it’s time to pause your favourite skincare routine. But before you stash your product away, let's uncover a few facts together.

First things first: what is tretinoin?

• If you're remotely interested in skincare, it’s hard not to have heard about tretinoin. Tretinoin is a powerful skincare ingredient from the retinoid family – derived from vitamin A, but around twenty times stronger than retinol. It's prized for effectively tackling acne, reducing signs of ageing, smoothing skin texture, and minimising pigmentation. Its potency means tretinoin isn't available over the counter, but with ilik, you can access personalised, prescription skincare carefully created for your skin’s unique needs. Sounds dreamy, right? And it is – but tretinoin can have its occasional diva moments. It’s all about easing into it.

Getting the best out of tretinoin

• Tretinoin is a skincare powerhouse – but like any powerful ingredient, it requires a gentle, patient approach. When starting tretinoin, it's important to ease into it gradually to help your skin adjust comfortably. You might initially experience a bit of redness, dryness, peeling, or increased sensitivity – think of these as signs that tretinoin is hard at work boosting your skin’s cell turnover.
• This peeling often leads people to assume that tretinoin is thinning their skin, but the reality is quite the opposite. Because tretinoin actively stimulates collagen production, it actually helps thicken and strengthen your skin over time. So, rather than weakening your skin, tretinoin builds resilience and structure from within.
• Still, don’t worry – these initial reactions typically fade within a few weeks as your skin adapts. One key tip for using tretinoin properly, especially in our sunny climate, is being mindful of sun protection. Tretinoin can make your skin temporarily more sensitive, so it makes sense to be extra diligent with SPF to prevent sunburn, irritation, or hyperpigmentation. Proper usage, consistent sun protection, and a gentle approach will help you achieve the best possible results from your tretinoin routine.

Tretinoin and sun exposure: staying smart in the sun

• At first glance, sun exposure and tretinoin might seem like a tricky duo. Because tretinoin accelerates cell turnover, that fresh, radiant layer of skin is more delicate, sensitive, and vulnerable to UV rays. However, this doesn’t mean you need to shelve your beloved tretinoin entirely. The truth is, consistency is key to achieving your skincare goals. So, as long as you’re committed to proper sun protection, you can absolutely continue your tretinoin routine throughout the summer. It's all about being smart, strategic, and committed to your SPF.

Using tretinoin in the summer: your guide

• Yes, you absolutely can (and should!) continue using tretinoin during the warmer months, provided you follow a few simple rules to keep your skin safe, happy, and glowing:

1. SPF is your BFF

• This should go without saying, but here it is again for the people at the back: SPF every day, without fail. And we mean every day – even the occasional cloudy ones. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (at least SPF 30, though 50 is ideal) generously, and reapply throughout the day, especially if you're spending significant time outdoors.

2. Timing is everything

• ilik formulas come on the shape of a night cream – which mean you’re applying your tretinoin in the evening. Not only does this limit sun sensitivity during daylight hours, but your skin is also better equipped to repair and regenerate overnight. Basically, let tretinoin work its magic while you catch some beauty sleep.

3. Ease into it

• If you’re new to tretinoin, summer may be a good time to start slowly. Consider beginning with a lower concentration or applying every second or third night until your skin acclimates.

4. Keep calm and moisturise

• Summer heat can already dry your skin out, and tretinoin might add to that dryness. Use a gentle, hydrating moisturiser to soothe any irritation and keep your skin’s moisture barrier in top shape.

The takeaway: you can have your tretinoin and your summer too

• Tretinoin doesn’t need to go on a summer holiday. The key lies in vigilant sun protection, mindful skincare routines, and a little bit of planning. Keep your SPF game strong, apply tretinoin at night, and pay close attention to how your skin reacts. With these simple steps, you can confidently keep your skin goals firmly on track without missing a single sunny terrace brunch.
• After all, summer skincare shouldn't be about compromises – it should be about smart choices. Here’s to a summer of beautiful, protected, and tretinoin-enhanced skin.