Medical-Grade Retinoids
Retinols and retinoids from professional brands, to support smoother, firmer-looking skin.
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ZO Skin HealthZO Retinol Skin Brightener 0.25%
$145.00
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ZO Skin HealthZO Retinol Skin Brightener 0.5%
$165.00
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ZO Skin HealthZO Retinol Skin Brightener 1%
$190.00
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AlumierMDAlumier Retinol Eye Gel
$125.00
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AlumierMDAlumier Retinol Resurfacing Serum 0.25%
$118.50
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AlumierMDAlumier Retinol Resurfacing Serum 0.5%
$139.00
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AlumierMDAlumier Retinol Resurfacing Serum 1.0%
$153.00
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ZO Skin HealthZO Wrinkle + Texture Repair Travel Size
$130.00
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About Retinoids & Retinol
What is medical-grade retinol?
Retinol and other retinoids are among the most studied active ingredients in skincare for the look of fine lines, wrinkles, texture and blemishes. Medical-grade retinol products from SkinCeuticals, ZO Skin Health and AlumierMD use stabilized, encapsulated forms that tend to be more refined and better tolerated than many over-the-counter creams.
Retinol vs. prescription retinoids vs. drugstore
Retinoid is the umbrella term for vitamin A derivatives. Drugstore retinols are often lower strength or less stable; prescription retinoids such as tretinoin are the strongest. Medical-grade retinols sit in between, offering meaningful results with better tolerability, which makes them a sensible next step for many people.
What retinol can help with
Used consistently, retinoids help refine the look of skin texture for a smoother-looking surface and can improve the look of fine lines, uneven texture, enlarged-looking pores, dullness and blemishes. Benefits build gradually over months rather than days, so patience and consistency matter more than strength.
How to start using retinol
Use a retinoid at night, starting two or three times a week and building up as your skin adjusts. Apply a pea-sized amount to dry skin and pair it with a moisturizer to reduce dryness.
What is retinol purging?
Some people experience temporary dryness, flaking or a brief increase in blemishes when starting a retinoid. Introducing it slowly and buffering with moisturizer helps. If irritation is severe or persistent, reduce frequency.
Retinol, sunscreen and what to avoid
Retinoids can make skin more sensitive to the sun, so daily broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential. Avoid combining a strong retinoid with strong exfoliating acids on the same night, and retinoids are generally not recommended during pregnancy, so speak with your doctor.
Shop authentic medical-grade retinol in Canada
BelleSkin is an authorized Canadian retailer, so every retinol product is genuine and fresh, shipped across Canada with free shipping over $99.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between retinol and a retinoid?
Retinoid is the umbrella term for vitamin A derivatives. Retinol is a common over-the-counter form; prescription retinoids are stronger. Medical-grade retinols sit in between.
How often should I use retinol?
Start two or three nights a week and increase gradually. Introducing it slowly reduces dryness and flaking.
Can I use retinol with vitamin C?
Yes, commonly vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night. Patch test and go slowly if your skin is sensitive.
What is retinol purging?
A temporary period of dryness, flaking or blemishes when starting a retinoid. Going slowly and using moisturizer helps; reduce frequency if irritation is severe.
Do I need sunscreen with retinol?
Yes. Retinoids can make skin more sensitive to the sun, so daily broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential.
Are these authentic and stocked in Canada?
Yes. BelleSkin is an authorized Canadian retailer, so every retinol product is genuine and fresh, shipped across Canada.