❄️ Retinol vs. Tretinoin: Why Your Skin Needs One (Yes, Even Now)
- Terri Miller
- Jan 25
- 3 min read
Happy Sunday, friends 💛 If you’re reading this from the Northeast, chances are you’re bundled up, indoors, and watching the snow fall—because today is a real New England snowstorm. And while the snow looks pretty, your skin? Not so much.
Between freezing temps, harsh winds, indoor heat, and dry air, living in New England can seriously compromise our skin barrier. Think: dryness, dullness, flaking, fine lines looking extra noticeable, and breakouts acting up for no reason.
That’s exactly why today we’re talking about retinol vs. tretinoin—and why I truly believe everyone should be on one of the two.
And yes, this is coming straight from me—not in a preachy way, but in a “your aesthetic nurse who wants your skin to win” kind of way 😉
First Things First: What’s the Difference?
✨ Retinol
Retinol is an over-the-counter vitamin A derivative. It works by increasing cell turnover, smoothing texture, improving tone, helping with acne, and softening fine lines—but in a gentler, more gradual way.
This is perfect if you’re:
New to vitamin A products
Sensitive or reactive
Focused on prevention + glow
My go-to:
iS Clinical Retinol+ Emulsion 0.3% (great beginner option)
iS Clinical Retinol+ Emulsion 1.0% (for experienced retinol users ready to level up)
✨ Tretinoin
Tretinoin is prescription-strength retinoic acid. It’s more potent, more direct, and backed by decades of clinical research.
Tretinoin is amazing for:
Acne
Hyperpigmentation
Texture + pores
Fine lines and skin aging
My fave:
Obagi Tretinoin Line – reliable, effective, and medical-grade results without the guesswork.
If retinol is the slow-and-steady glow-up, tretinoin is the intentional transformation.
Why Winter in New England Makes Retinoids a MUST
Let’s talk real life for a second.
Cold weather + indoor heat =
Compromised skin barrier
Increased dryness
Slower cell turnover
More inflammation
Retinol and tretinoin help counteract all of that by:
Encouraging healthy skin renewal
Improving hydration retention over time
Strengthening skin when used correctly
The key is how you use them—especially during winter.
My Professional Take (and Personal Truth)
If you’ve ever told me:
“My skin is dull.” “Nothing works.” “I want aging prevention but I’m scared.”
Nine times out of ten, the missing step is a retinoid.
I don’t believe in overdoing skincare—but I do believe in using the right active, the right way.
How to Use Retinol or Tretinoin (Step-by-Step)
🌙 Night Routine Only
Cleanse – Gentle, non-foaming cleanser
Pat skin completely dry (this matters!)
Apply a pea-sized amount of retinol or tretinoin
Dot onto forehead, cheeks, chin
Gently spread
Moisturize (yes, always)
You can moisturize before and after if you’re sensitive
⏳ How Often to Start
2 nights per week for 2–3 weeks
Increase slowly as tolerated
More is not better—consistency is
🚫 Where NOT to Apply
Avoid these areas:
Eyelids
Corners of the nose
Corners of the mouth
Directly under the eyes
These areas are thinner and more prone to irritation—trust me here.
☀️ The Non-Negotiable Rule
If you use a retinoid at night, you must wear SPF during the day. Even in winter. Even when it’s snowing. Even when you’re indoors near windows.
No SPF = wasted progress.
My Favorite Products (Available In-Store & Online)
✨ Obagi Tretinoin – for real results, acne control, and long-term skin health ✨ iS Clinical Retinol+ 0.3% – gentle, glow-boosting starter ✨ iS Clinical Retinol+ 1.0% – advanced correction + texture refinement
You can always purchase:
In-store at The Skincare Studio
Online through our website (easy + trusted)
Not sure which one is right for you? That’s literally what we’re here for.
Final Thought
Great skin isn’t about having a million products—it’s about having the right ones.
If you’re living in New England, battling winter skin, and serious about your skin long-term… retinol or tretinoin isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Your skin deserves intention. And I’ve got you every step of the way 💛
— Terri
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