May 14, 2025
Ever wondered why your dermatologist gets so worked up about sun protection when you're using retinol?
As a board-certified cosmetic surgeon with 38 years of experience, I've seen countless patients struggle with skin damage from improper retinol use during sun exposure. Retinol is a powerful skincare ingredient that can dramatically improve your skin's appearance, but it also makes your skin significantly more sensitive to sunburn.
Retinol works by accelerating cell turnover, which means it creates fresh, new skin cells more rapidly. This incredible process also makes your skin thinner and more vulnerable to UV damage. When you use retinol, your skin becomes:
Think of your skin like a delicate new layer of protection that's been freshly polished—it's beautiful but incredibly fragile.
When retinol stimulates skin cell production, it temporarily reduces the skin's natural protective barrier. This means UV rays can penetrate more deeply and cause more significant damage. Essentially, you're creating a superhighway for potential sunburn and long-term skin damage.
At Dr. Park Ave, we recommend a minimum of SPF 50 for patients using retinol, especially during peak sun hours.
Professional Advice: If you experience excessive redness or sensitivity, contact our medical spa for personalized guidance.
Every skin is unique. What works for one person might not work for another. At Dr. Park Ave, we provide personalized skincare consultations to ensure your retinol journey is safe and effective.
Curious about how retinol can transform your skin while avoiding sunburn? Book an appointment with our expert team today.
Ever wondered why your skin feels extra vulnerable after using retinol?
Let's dive deep into the world of retinol sunburn protection, straight from my 38 years of cosmetic surgery experience.
Personal Recommendation: Microneedling services can help rebuild skin resilience after UV damage.
Ever wondered why your skin feels like it's screaming after sun exposure when you're using retinol?
As a board-certified cosmetic surgeon with nearly four decades of experience, I've seen countless patients struggle with the delicate balance between achieving glowing skin and protecting it from sun damage.
Sarah, a 35-year-old marketing executive, came to our medical spa with significant sun damage. She was using a high-concentration retinol product without proper sun protection.
The result? Accelerated skin aging and uneven pigmentation. Her transformation began with a personalized skin protection plan that included:
