Why does “Retinol Dermatitis” occur when using “Retinol” (Vitamin A) in dermocosmetic products, and how should the condition be managed?

Retinol is a powerful anti-aging ingredient that maximizes the skin’s cell renewal rate. However, if the skin is not accustomed to the retinol molecule or if it is started at a very high dose, the skin barrier temporarily collapses as cells multiply too quickly and try to shed the dead skin layer rapidly. This condition is called “Retinol Dermatitis”; its symptoms include widespread redness, extreme dryness, flaking, burning, and sensitivity. To manage the process, retinol should be discontinued immediately, and creams containing ceramides, which repair the skin barrier, should be applied. After the skin has healed, retinol treatment should be gradually restarted using a “sandwich method” (moisturizer + retinol + moisturizer) with very low doses, only 1-2 nights a week.