Retinol Complex 0.5
SkinMedica Retinol Complex 0.5 is a 0.5% retinol formulation.
It uses PhytoShield™ Complex, which is an antioxidant system meant to reduce irritation and protect the skin while delivering retinol.
It’s a “mid‑strength” retinol, intended for people who have already used retinol at a gentler strength (like 0.25%) or another mild retinoid product.
Benefits advertised include: improving skin tone & texture, diminishing fine lines & coarse wrinkles, promoting resiliency & radiance, helping with dark spots, etc
| If you’ve not used retinol much (or at all), start with 2 nights per week (e.g. every 3–4 nights). Let the skin build tolerance. SkinCrew+2SkinMDs Store+2 |
| PM | Use it at night, after cleansing & toning, before moisturizer. Skin should be dry (wet skin can increase absorption and risk irritation). |
| Use a pea‑sized amount for face, or follow “single pump” instruction (if the packaging uses a pump). Avoid eye area. |
Moisturizer buffering | If it’s irritating, buffer with moisturizer (apply moisturizer first, then retinol, or vice versa, depending on your sensitivity). Alternatively, use moisturizer over it. |
| Sun protection | Very important. Retinol increases sun sensitivity. Use SPF 30+ daily. Avoid too much sun exposure while using. |
| Avoid during pregnancy / nursing | It’s not advised for people who are pregnant, lactating, or planning to become pregnant. |
Instructions for use:
Apply in the evening after cleansing and toning and before applying your moisturizer. If a retinol product has never been used before, begin twice a week 2-3 days apart, gradually increasing frequency to every other night, and then advancing to each evening or as tolerated.