Retinol is the gold standard in skincare for tackling fine lines, acne, and uneven skin tone, but let’s be honest—it can be a little rough on the skin. 

If you’ve ever experienced peeling, redness, or irritation, you know the struggle. That’s where a calming and soothing product comes in. Prepping your skin with soothing ingredients before applying retinol can make all the difference between irritation and a smooth, glowing complexion.

1. Why Soothing Before Retinol Matters

Retinol speeds up cell turnover, which is fantastic for long-term skin health but can also cause dryness, sensitivity, and flaking in the process. When your skin barrier is compromised, retinol can feel more aggressive than necessary. 

We recommend using a hydrating, barrier-supporting toner (such as our Mushroom B5 Toning Cocktail) beforehand to help:

• Reduce redness and irritation
• Strengthen the skin’s protective barrier
• Improve moisture retention
• Enhance retinol absorption while minimizing side effects

2. Key Ingredients That Soothe and Protect

Ectoin – The Ultimate Skin Shield

Ectoin is a powerful stress-protection molecule that helps your skin retain moisture and defend against environmental aggressors. It’s particularly beneficial before retinol because it reinforces the skin’s natural barrier, reducing sensitivity and dryness. 

Product we recommend: Cactus Ceramide Fortifying Milk

Bisabolol – The Skin Soother

Derived from chamomile, bisabolol is a natural anti-inflammatory powerhouse. It helps calm irritation, making retinol use much more comfortable—especially for those with sensitive skin.

Product we recommend: Cactus Ceramide Fortifying Milk 

Vitamin B5 / Panthenol – The Hydration Hero

Also known as panthenol, Vitamin B5 provides deep hydration and helps heal the skin. It prevents dryness from retinol, keeping your skin soft, smooth, and nourished.

Product we recommend: Cactus Ceramide Fortifying Milk, Mushroom B5 Toning Cocktail, La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum

Cactus Extract – The Hydration Booster

Rich in antioxidants, amino acids, and fatty acids, cactus extract locks in moisture and prevents water loss. Since retinol can sometimes lead to dehydration, cactus extract helps keep your skin balanced and resilient.

Product we recommend: Cactus Ceramide Fortifying Milk

3. How to combine steps in your retinol routine?

1. Cleanse with the Higher Capacity Cleansing Fluid, a water-based, rich-foaming cleanser that removes impurities while maintaining the skin’s natural moisture balance.

2. Tone with the Mushroom B5 Toning Cocktail, an essence-like texture that contains all the nutrients in supporting the skin barrier. Gently pat it in and let it absorb fully.

3. Treat with your retinol—now that your skin is prepped and fortified, it’s less likely to experience irritation.

4.Moisturize with the Purslane Prebiotic Moisturizer, a nourishing, barrier-supporting formula that hydrates and balances the skin’s microbiome.

Your skin will feel calm, resilient, and deeply hydrated~

The Takeaway: Balance is Key

Retinol is amazing, but it doesn’t have to come with irritation. Prepping your skin with the right soothing ingredients can help you get all the benefits without the discomfort. If you want to build a retinol routine that actually works—without the peeling and redness—a calming toner is a great first step.

Are you ready to make retinol a breeze? Start soothing first, and watch your skin thrive~