The general recommendation for retinol use is to start slow and gradually increase frequency as your skin builds tolerance. It is commonly advised to begin with applying retinol every other day or about 1-2 times per week for the first few weeks. As your skin adapts without irritation, you can increase usage to more nights per week, such as "2 nights on, 1 night off," and eventually to every night if desired and tolerated. Most experts recommend using retinol only at night and always pairing it with daily sunscreen during the day to protect sensitive skin. The exact frequency depends on factors like your skin sensitivity, the retinol concentration, and your skincare goals (e.g., anti-aging or acne treatment). Here is a typical suggested schedule:

• Start with 1-2 times per week for the first couple of weeks.
• Increase to every other night for about two weeks.
• Then move to 2 nights on, 1 night off.
• After about a month or if no side effects occur, you may use it nightly.

If irritation such as redness, dryness, or flaking occurs, reduce frequency or intensity and allow your skin time to adjust. Using a gentle moisturizer alongside retinol can help mitigate irritation. Overall, most people can eventually use retinol daily or almost daily, but starting slow and monitoring skin response is key to safe and effective use.