Beauty Elixir

Can you use Benzoyl Peroxide with Retinal?

Don't mix

No, keep them apart.

Benzoyl peroxide is an oxidiser that can break down retinol before it has a chance to work, and together they are very drying. Use benzoyl peroxide in the morning (or as a wash) and the retinoid at night.

How to use them

Alternate nights, for example Benzoyl Peroxide on Monday, Wednesday and Friday and Retinal on Tuesday and Thursday, with a plain moisturiser night in between if your skin feels sensitive.

  1. 1
    CleanseGentle cleanser, pat dry
  2. AM
    Benzoyl Peroxide (day 1)then moisturiser and SPF 50
  3. PM
    Retinal (day 2)then moisturiser

What Benzoyl Peroxide does

It kills acne-causing bacteria (C. acnes) by releasing oxygen into the pore. It works fast on inflamed pimples, but it is drying and can bleach towels and pillowcases.

Typical strength
2.5% – 5%
When
AM/PM
Irritation
Best for
Oily And Combination skin

Everything that pairs with Benzoyl Peroxide →

What Retinal does

Retinaldehyde is one conversion step closer to retinoic acid than retinol, so it works faster than retinol while usually being gentler than tretinoin. It also has a mild antibacterial effect useful for acne.

Typical strength
0.05% – 0.2%
When
PM
Irritation
Best for
Normal, Oily, Combination And Dry skin

Everything that pairs with Retinal →

Trying to choose one? Read Benzoyl Peroxide vs Retinal: which is better for your skin.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use Benzoyl Peroxide and Retinal together?

No, keep them apart. Benzoyl peroxide is an oxidiser that can break down retinol before it has a chance to work, and together they are very drying. Use benzoyl peroxide in the morning (or as a wash) and the retinoid at night.

Which goes first, Benzoyl Peroxide or Retinal?

Apply Benzoyl Peroxide first, then Retinal. The general rule is thinnest to thickest texture, and lowest pH first. For this pair, though, it is better not to layer them in the same routine at all.

Should I use Benzoyl Peroxide in the morning or at night?

Benzoyl Peroxide: works morning or night. 2.5% works about as well as 10% and irritates less. Use as a short-contact wash or a spot treatment, and keep it away from fabrics.

Should I use Retinal in the morning or at night?

Retinal: best at night. Start at 0.05% two or three nights a week and build up slowly. Buffer with moisturiser if you are sensitive, and wear SPF daily.

Is Benzoyl Peroxide with Retinal safe during pregnancy?

Retinal is generally avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Ask your doctor about safer alternatives such as azelaic acid or bakuchiol.

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