What's The Deal With Retinol Body Lotions? Your Guide To The Trendy Product

But it's also an addition that comes with a healthy dose of usage tips and cautions—the ingredient isn't for all skin types and definitely has an adjustment period for most people. This all raises the question: What do you need to know about using retinol-spiked body creams? Well, here's a helpful mini-guide. 

Finally, there's another group of individuals who will not be able to use retinol body lotions. In general, many derms agree that you should not use retinol if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. While the primary concern is ingesting oral retinoids, doctors and derms recommend ceasing topical use as well1—as a precaution since we don't yet know how much is absorbed into the bloodstream, especially when using it on a large surface area.

However, from there, many of the same skin care rules apply:

"Just be aware that it is always best to start slowly," says board-certified dermatologist Loretta Ciraldo, M.D., FAAD, in this retinol dossier. "Consider applying the product sparingly—only Monday, Wednesday, Friday—for the first two to three weeks. If no redness, peeling, or irritation develops, you can increase frequency" Some people may find that they will be happy with the results at this level, while others will opt for more frequent usage, and still others will find that it's not for them at all. 

Retinol makes your skin photosensitive, increasing the likelihood of burns and damage. You should never—we repeat, never—apply retinol on the skin and then step out to the sun unprotected. As is the case with any retinol use, you will need to prioritize sunscreen and safe sun practices even more than you already do. 

If you choose to use a retinol body lotion, you'll need a second one in your lineup to reach for on the days you're skipping the active. Opt for extra-hydrating and repairing options to account for any increased dryness and irritation. "It's like when you go to the gym, you need days to recover. The same thing holds true for the skin barrier and the microbiome," says board-certified dermatologist Whitney Bowe, M.D., on the mindbodygreen podcast. "You want to use a retinol? Go for it, but give yourself two nights off when you're just using nourishing, hydrating ingredients." 

You can even use them together: You may find that you want to use a hydrating number in addition to your retinol lotion to buffer any unwanted effects and optimize your skin's appearance. 

Perhaps it's just the chest and neck that are giving you pause–well, then you can feel free to only use the lotion in those areas and then use your hydration elsewhere. Or if you're experiencing acne on your back and shoulders, just tend to those locations. You don't need to apply it everywhere if you don't need to. 

Retinol body lotions may be trendy right now—as retinol is (often, rightfully) hailed as a super active. However, they're not right for everyone and you should proceed with caution when folding it into your personal care practice: Only use the product a few days a week, buffer with other hydrating body lotions, and practice safe sun exposure. And if your skin can't deal with it at all? That's OK too—here are some of our other favorite body lotions to try instead.