Retinol

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Bottle of Kiehl's Retinol Skin Renewing Daily Microdose

Model with a sample of Kiehl's Retinol Skin Renewing Daily Microdose on their face

Retinol Skin-Renewing Daily Micro-Dose Serum

A potent anti-wrinkle serum with Retinol that visibly reduces wrinkles, firms skin, evens skin tone, and smoothes texture with minimal discomfort.

15% off

Old price £75.00 New price £63.75

(£1,275.00/L.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Demystify anti-ageing with the perfect retinol serum for your skin care routine.

Which Kiehl's retinol serum is best for beginners?

If you're new to retinol, we recommend starting with our Skin-Renewing Daily Micro-Dose Serum, which delivers retinol in a gentle, daily-strength micro-dose alongside ceramides and peptides to support your skin barrier. This retinol serum is designed to visibly reduce wrinkles and smooth texture with minimal discomfort, making it a great starting point for first-time retinol users.

Can I use Kiehl's retinol serum every day?

How long does it take for a retinol serum to work?

Most people typically begin to notice improvements in skin texture and fine lines within 4 to 6 weeks of consistent use, with more significant results appearing around the 12-week mark. Patience is key here, as retinol works by gradually boosting cell turnover and collagen production beneath the surface. We recommend sticking with your retinol serum nightly and pairing it with SPF during the day for the best results.

What Does Retinol Serum Do for Your Skin?

Retinol serum works by increasing cell turnover and stimulating collagen production, which helps reduce fine lines, smooth uneven texture, and even out skin tone over time. It's considered the gold standard in anti-ageing skincare because it addresses multiple concerns at once, from wrinkles to dullness to enlarged pores. We recommend starting with a gentle formula and building up gradually to see the best results.

Can I Use Retinol Serum If I Have Sensitive Skin?

Yes, people with sensitive skin can absolutely use retinol serum, provided you choose a gentle, micro-dose formula with barrier-supporting ingredients like ceramides and peptides. The key is introducing it slowly, starting with just two applications per week and increasing frequency as your skin adjusts. Our Skin-Renewing Daily Micro-Dose Serum is specifically designed to minimise irritation while still delivering visible results.

When Should I Apply Retinol Serum in My Routine?

Apply your retinol serum in the evening after cleansing and before moisturiser, as retinol can increase sun sensitivity and works best during your skin's natural overnight repair cycle. A pea-sized amount is typically all you need for your entire face, and we recommend waiting a minute or two before layering your moisturiser on top. Always follow with SPF the next morning to protect your skin.

Can I Use Vitamin C and Retinol Together?

While both vitamin C and retinol are brilliant ingredients, we recommend using them at different times rather than layering them together in the same routine. Vitamin C works best in the morning to protect against environmental damage, while retinol serum is ideal for evening use when your skin is in repair mode. This approach maximises the benefits of both ingredients while minimising any potential irritation.

Does Retinol Help With Acne and Breakouts?

Yes, retinol serum can be genuinely helpful for acne-prone skin because it increases cell turnover to unclog pores and reduce the formation of new blemishes. Some people experience a temporary adjustment period (sometimes called "purging") during the first few weeks, but this typically settles as your skin adapts. Stick with it, and you'll likely see clearer, smoother skin over time.

Can I Use Retinol Serum Under My Eyes?

While retinol can be used near the eye area, we recommend using a dedicated eye treatment instead, as the skin around your eyes is significantly thinner and more delicate than the rest of your face. Standard retinol serums may be too potent for this sensitive area and could cause unnecessary irritation. Look for eye-specific formulae designed with gentler concentrations for the best results.

What Strength Retinol Should I Start With?

If you're new to retinol, we recommend starting with a micro-dose or low-concentration formula (around 0.1-0.3%) to allow your skin to build tolerance without irritation. This gentler approach still delivers visible results, just at a pace your skin can comfortably handle. Once your skin has adjusted over several weeks, you can consider moving to a higher-strength formula if desired.

Retinol for More Youthful Looking Skin