This perspective comes from Dr. Valerie Hanft, dermatologist and former Chief Medical Officer of AO2 SKIN, who continues to serve on our advisory board.

“In my career in dermatology, I have done extensive research on topical retinoids, including working with the dermatologist who pioneered the original Retin-A. Because of this background, I know retinoids are invaluable in the management of acne, sun damage, precancers, natural aging, and overall skin health.”

“However, I personally have had a long difficult journey with topical retinoids. As a teen, it was prescribed for me for acne. I was a very non-compliant patient because I quickly became frustrated with the redness and irritation.

When I began my career in dermatology, I knew I had to try again. I had access to countless over-the-counter and prescription retinoids with different delivery vehicles designed to improve tolerability. No matter how gradually I tried to acclimate to the various retinoids, I still struggled with irritation, sometimes so severe.”

This is a common experience, even among patients who understand the benefits of retinoids.

Retinoids increase cell turnover, but they can also:

• • Disrupt the skin barrier
  • Trigger redness and flaking
  • Lead to sensitivity that limits consistent use

Retinol irritation often occurs during the adjustment period when the skin barrier is still adapting.

At the same time, acne-prone skin often exists in a low-oxygen environment at the follicle level. This can:

• • Contribute to clogged pores
  • Support the growth of acne-causing bacteria
  • Increase inflammation

Improving tolerance to retinol irritation often depends on supporting the skin environment, which can be just as important as increasing turnover.

“When we developed AO2 CLEAR, I was very excited because I knew my sensitive skin would tolerate it. I was hopeful it would clear the occasional acne that still annoyed me.

I postulated that the oxygen, with its healing properties, would improve my ability to tolerate a topical retinoid.”

AO2 CLEAR delivers oxygen at the pore and follicle level using patented oxygen nanobubble technology.

Oxygen supports:

• • Healthy skin cell function
  • A more balanced follicular environment
  • Reduced visible inflammation

This is oxygenation, not oxidation. AO2 CLEAR delivers stable molecular oxygen without generating free radicals.

“I started very cautiously using an over-the-counter retinol twice weekly layered with moisturizer. To my surprise, I quickly advanced to nightly undiluted Retin-A at the highest strength.”

Her experience reflects a key idea: when the skin environment is supported, tolerance to stronger treatments may improve.

“Not only did AO2 CLEAR finally take care of my acne, but it enabled me to add the powerful topical retinoid that I had tried and failed to use for decades. AO2 CLEAR, Retin-A, and sunscreen will forever be my skincare trifecta. Anything else, topical vitamins, growth factors, and the like, are helpful additions, but I know that, with these three, my bases are truly covered.””

This approach reflects a broader shift toward:

• • Simpler routines
  • Better tolerance
  • Consistency over intensity

If you have struggled with retinoids, it does not mean they are not effective. It may mean your skin needs support.

Consider:

• • Introducing retinoids gradually
  • Supporting your skin barrier
  • Avoiding unnecessary irritation
  • Creating a balanced skin environment

AO2 CLEAR can be layered into existing routines and does not contain acids, actives, preservatives, or fragrance.

Retinoids remain one of the most effective tools in dermatology.

But results depend on consistency and tolerance.

For some, supporting the skin first can make all the difference.

Try AO2 CLEAR for yourself—with our money-back policy, there’s nothing to lose (except the breakouts).