pause it for this moment.
Pause retinoids 7–10 days before facial waxing.
how to use it. Stop retinoids 7–10 days before waxing. Restart 5–7 days after waxing (or wait until any irritation fully resolves). Consider dermaplaning as an alternative that does not require a long pause.
why it works. Retinoid-thinned stratum corneum tears under wax adhesion — dermatologists document skin-removal injuries, particularly on brow, lip, and cheek areas where facial skin is naturally thinner.
Reviewed with 2 sources on 2026-07-03.
Denatured Alcohol around Facial Waxing
Avoid denatured alcohol during the post-procedure recovery window.
also about waxingFragrance around Facial Waxing
Avoid fragrance during the post-procedure recovery window.
also about waxingGlycolic Acid (AHA) around Facial Waxing
Pause glycolic acid ~72 hours before waxing.
also about waxingSalicylic Acid (BHA) around Facial Waxing
Pause salicylic acid ~72 hours before waxing.
also about retinoidsHydroquinone with Retinoids
Under provider supervision, Kligman triple therapy (HQ + tretinoin + steroid) is a first-line prescription melasma regim...
also about retinoidsRetinoids around Chemical Peel
Pause retinoids 5–7 days before chemical peels and 7–14 days after.