Obagi Retinol 0.5 vs 1.0 vs Retinol + PHA: how to choose and how to start

Written by Dr Elif Benar, dermatologist at Dr Elif Clinic, 54 Harley Street, London. Our doctors use and recommend these products in clinic every day.

Retinol is one of the best-studied ingredients for fine lines, uneven texture and dullness. Obagi offers three non-prescription retinol creams. Choosing the right one, and starting slowly, is what makes the difference between great results and an irritated face.

The three options

• Obagi Retinol 0.5: our usual starting point. Suitable for people new to retinol or with sensitive skin.
• Obagi Retinol 1.0: for people who have used retinol for a few months without irritation and want a stronger step.
• Obagi Retinol + PHA Refining Night Cream: combines retinol with a gentle PHA exfoliant and hydration. A good choice if your main concern is rough texture and you prefer a creamier, more comfortable formula.

How to start without irritation

1. Weeks 1–2: apply a pea-sized amount 2 nights a week on clean, dry skin.
2. Weeks 3–4: increase to every other night if your skin is comfortable.
3. After that: use nightly if tolerated.
4. Always moisturise. Obagi Hydrate Luxe or Obagi Rebalance work well with retinol.
5. Wear SPF every morning. Retinol makes the skin more sensitive to the sun.

Mild dryness or flaking in the first weeks is normal. If your skin becomes very red, sore or swollen, stop and let it recover before restarting at a lower frequency.

Who should not use retinol

Do not use retinol if you are pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding. If you have eczema, rosacea or very reactive skin, speak to a doctor first.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use Obagi retinol with vitamin C?

Yes: vitamin C in the morning, retinol at night.

Should I start with 0.5 or 1.0?

Start with 0.5 unless you have used a retinol product regularly for at least 2–3 months without irritation.

Can I use retinol around the eyes?

Keep retinol creams away from the eyelids and the corners of the nose and mouth, where skin is thinner.

Is there anything stronger than retinol?

Prescription retinoids are stronger and are only available after a consultation with a doctor.

Need help choosing?

Every skin is different. If you are unsure which product suits you, book a consultation at Dr Elif Clinic on Harley Street, or send us a message through our contact page. This article is general information and is not a substitute for personal medical advice.