Retinol and skin treatments: when to stop and when to restart
TL;DR
Retinol speeds up skin renewal, so it can make skin more reactive to treatments. Stop retinol before a chemical peel, microneedling or dermaplaning, usually for several days, and pause it afterwards until your skin has fully settled. Prescription retinoids and isotretinoin need longer, so always tell us what you use. We'll give you exact timings for your treatment.
Knowing when to stop retinol before a chemical peel, or any resurfacing treatment, is one of the most important parts of preparing your skin. Retinol is brilliant for long-term skin health, but using it right before or after a treatment can lead to stinging, redness and irritation.
This guide explains why retinol and treatments need careful timing, when to pause it before peels, microneedling and dermaplaning, when to restart, and what to do if you use prescription retinoids. Gina has over 10 years' experience in the beauty industry and specialises in skincare, so this is the advice we give clients every week at our Sutton Coldfield salon.
Quick facts
- Why pause
- retinol speeds up cell turnover, making skin more reactive
- Before treatment
- usually pause for several days, we'll confirm exact timing
- After treatment
- restart once skin feels completely settled
- Prescription retinoids
- need longer, so always tell us
- Isotretinoin
- usually a wait of months after finishing, so speak to us first
- Restarting
- slowly, a few nights a week at first
- First step
- a free skin consultation to plan your routine around treatment
Why do you need to stop retinol before a chemical peel?
You need to stop retinol before a chemical peel because both work by speeding up the skin's renewal. Retinol thins the outer layer of dead skin cells over time, so adding a peel on top can make the treatment work more strongly than intended, which increases the risk of stinging, redness, flaking and irritation.
The same applies to microneedling and dermaplaning. Pausing retinol for a short time lets your skin's surface recover, so the treatment works evenly and safely.
When should you stop retinol before a treatment?
Most people need to stop retinol several days before a chemical peel, microneedling or dermaplaning. The exact timing depends on the strength of your retinol, how long you've used it and which treatment you're having, so we'll confirm it for you before your appointment.
- Before a chemical peel: pause retinol and exfoliating acids for several days. Stronger peels may need a longer break.
- Before microneedling: pause retinol for several days so your skin isn't already sensitised.
- Before dermaplaning: pause retinol for a few days, as both treatments exfoliate.
- Before SKINSTORM: tell us what you use, and we'll advise on timing.
The American Academy of Dermatology's guidance on preparing for a chemical peel also recommends telling your practitioner about any retinoids you use.
Gina's tip: Set a reminder on your phone for the day you need to stop your retinol, and another for the day you can restart. It's the easiest step to forget.
What about prescription retinoids and isotretinoin?
Prescription retinoids, such as tretinoin or adapalene, are stronger than over-the-counter retinol and usually need a longer break before treatment. Isotretinoin (Roaccutane), taken as a tablet for acne, affects how the skin heals, and resurfacing treatments are usually delayed for several months after finishing a course. Always tell us about any prescription skincare or acne medication, and check with your prescriber if you're unsure.
When can you restart retinol after a treatment?
Restart retinol once your skin feels completely normal again, with no redness, tightness, flaking or stinging. For a light peel or dermaplaning this is often around a week, and after microneedling or a stronger peel it may be longer. Reintroduce it slowly, a few nights a week at first, and stop if it stings.
Until then, keep your routine simple: a gentle cleanser, a good moisturiser and SPF 30 or higher every day. Our aftercare guides for chemical peels, microneedling and dermaplaning explain what to use in the meantime.
Why retinol still matters
Retinol is one of the best-researched ingredients for fine lines, texture and uneven tone, which is why we don't want you to stop it for longer than necessary. The AAD explains the difference between retinoids and retinol and how to use them. Used alongside a course of treatments, with the right timing, it can help you get even better results.
Who should avoid retinol
Retinoids aren't recommended during pregnancy or while trying to conceive. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, tell us and we'll recommend suitable alternatives and treatments.
How much do treatments cost?
At Gina Rose Beauty, chemical peels start from £40, dermaplaning £40, microneedling from £100 and SKINSTORM from £175. We'll explain when to stop retinol before a chemical peel or any other treatment at your free consultation.
About the author
Gina is the owner of Gina Rose Beauty in Sutton Coldfield and has over 10 years' experience in the beauty industry. She specialises in advanced skincare and runs a fully accredited training academy for aspiring beauty professionals. Meet Gina and the team. Last reviewed: October 2026.
Book a free skin consultation in Sutton Coldfield
Not sure how to fit retinol around your treatments? Book a free, no-obligation consultation and we'll plan your routine with you. Book your free skin consultation on Fresha
You can also read more about what happens at a skin consultation, how to prepare for a skin treatment, or explore all our skincare treatments.
Frequently asked questions
When should I stop retinol before a chemical peel?
Most people need to stop retinol before a chemical peel for several days. The exact timing depends on your retinol and the peel's strength, so we'll confirm it before your appointment.
Why do I need to stop retinol before a chemical peel?
You need to stop retinol before a chemical peel because both speed up skin renewal. Using them together can make the peel work too strongly and cause irritation.
Should I stop retinol before microneedling?
Yes. Pause retinol for several days before microneedling so your skin isn't already sensitised.
When can I use retinol after a peel?
Once your skin feels completely normal, often around a week for a light peel. Reintroduce it slowly, a few nights a week at first.
Do I need to stop retinol before dermaplaning?
Yes, for a few days, as both treatments exfoliate the skin.
Can I have a peel if I've taken Roaccutane?
Treatments are usually delayed for several months after finishing isotretinoin. Speak to us and your prescriber first.
Is retinol safe in pregnancy?
Retinoids aren't recommended during pregnancy. Tell us if you're pregnant and we'll suggest safe alternatives.