The So-Called Retinol Ban: Who Decides What Our Skin Can Handle?

Retinol has been the backbone of clinical skincare for decades. It reprogrammes skin cells, stimulates collagen and visibly transforms texture and tone. Yet the EU has decided women need protecting from it. From 2026, over the counter retinol will be restricted to 0.3% for the face and 0.05% for the body. Not banned, they say, simply reduced to the point where results may take far longer.

I find this difficult to understand. Yes, retinol is powerful. Yes, if used carelessly it can cause irritation. But the same can be said for acids, vitamin C and almost every active ingredient that genuinely works. Instead of educating women on how to use it properly, the answer seems to be restricting everyone’s choice. The nanny state strikes again and I cannot help but roll my eyes.

Here in the UK, higher strengths are still available. At SkinGoal we have built a retinol pathway that gives women choice, precision and results.

Power R1% is our strongest retinol product, a serum1% retinol, created with stabilisers and supporting actives so women who want maximum results can achieve them with clinical safety.

Cream Repair is our powerful retinol night cream at 0.6% designed to renew, smooth and hydrate while you sleep. It bridges the gap between a high strength serum and a gentler daily cream, making it transformative yet wearable.

Cream Revive is non retinol but powered by bakuchiol, often described as the plant based alternative to retinol. It works to improve pigmentation and signs of ageing with far less risk of sensitivity.

And because not every skin is ready for high strength retinol, we are preparing a new 0.3% retinol cream. This will be a compromise, yes, but a necessary one. It will be clinically precise, effective and of course aligned with the future regulations.

It is important to understand what these new rules mean. Prescription retinoids such as tretinoin, adapalene and others will remain available through doctors. Stronger retinol formulations above the new EU caps will also only be accessible under medical supervision. Which means that for most women, the choice of effective over the counter retinol products will narrow dramatically.

What troubles me most is not the percentages but the principle. Women deserve choice. The ability to decide what their skin is capable of when supported by education and expert guidance. Taking away that choice does not feel like progress.

At SkinGoal we will always believe in education over restriction. Real results are not about diluting ingredients, they are about understanding them and using them intelligently. Retinol is not banned in the UK, but the pressure from Europe will shape what is available. Which is why now, more than ever, it matters to place your trust in brands that put skin health first.

💜 Because true transformation comes from choice, not compromise.