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Retinol can be a tough ingredient for anyone, much less those prone to irritation and redness. But the best retinol for sensitive skin can offer all of the benefits of the vitamin-A derivative—think smoother, firmer, and clearer skin—without the requisite side effects, which can include dryness, redness, flakes, and other forms of inflammation. "Those with sensitive skin can definitely try using retinol, although they need to take certain precautions," says Lauren Penzi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York City. Check out the FAQs below for a more detailed breakdown but three important factors to look out for are a low concentration of retinol, a gentler variation of retinol (like retinyl palmitate), and encapsulated retinol that releases the active over time.