Simple Skincare Science: What is the Point of Microdosing?

Simple Skincare Science: What is the Point of Microdosing?

September 12, 2025

If your skincare routine features active ingredients like retinol, azelaic acid, or vitamin C, you may have noticed their percentage listed directly on the product label. Some doses are very small and can be as little as 0.1% of an AHA or BHA, also known as microdoses. 

Using precise ratios of powerful ingredients ensures you get all the benefits for your skin without any unwelcome side effects. Below, we’ll discuss the “simple skincare” science behind microdosing, the benefits to your skin, and products from Isomers Skincare that feature microdose formulas. 

What is Microdosing in Skincare?

First, what exactly is microdosing? This term refers to the practice of using very small amounts of powerful, active ingredients. While some might think using a larger amount could only benefit your skin, the need for microdosing is proof of an undeniable truth: you can definitely have too much of a good thing. 

Focusing on a smaller concentration prevents adverse side effects that come with using too much of one active. In skincare, these can be negative reactions like skin dryness, redness, irritation, and flaking, common with high doses of AHAs and BHAs.

Retinoids, hydroxy acids, and vitamin C are generally ingredients that will be microdosed in skincare product formulations due to their potent effects. With the right dose, you can enjoy the benefits these ingredients offer, from protection against environmental stressors to reduced visible signs of aging. 

The Benefits of Microdosing 

Reduces irritation: As touched on above, potent AHAs and BHAs can cause adverse effects to your skin if you apply too much in one go. Reactions like dryness and redness will usually appear when you first introduce ingredients like retinoids to your skin, but microdosing significantly minimizes these effects, allowing those with sensitive skin to reap their benefits. 

Builds your skin’s tolerance to actives: Even if you don’t have overly sensitive skin, it takes time to build up a tolerance to powerful skincare ingredients. Microdosing is a great way to slowly introduce retinol, vitamin C, and/or hydroxy acids and let your skin get used to them. 

Better for day-to-day use: Smaller doses of powerful actives are more suitable for daily use, allowing you to introduce these beneficial ingredients in your regular skincare routine.

Supports skin health with lasting results: Harsh reactions from too strong a dose can create temporary setbacks in your skincare goals. Using minimal daily doses and building up a tolerance for active formulations can keep you on the right track towards visible results, like reduced fine lines, skin tone, and a more youthful appearance. 

Products that Feature Microdosing from Isomers Skincare

You can practice microdosing in a couple of different ways: using pure formulations and microdosing independently or selecting skincare products with pre-divided doses. At Isomers Skincare, we offer a few products with microdose formulations in our Simple Science product line. You can find the following in our Online Shop:


0.1% Retinol 1% Azelaic Acid 3% Niacinamide Serum

  • Formulated to provide skin-renewing and anti-aging benefits like reduced fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation without harsh side effects
  • Targets acne breakouts and visible pores
  • Helps fade dark spots, redness, and uneven skin tone


1% Salicylic Acid 1% Azelaic Acid 1% Niacinamide Serum

  • A triple-action microdose face serum formulated to refine the appearance of pores, improve uneven skin tone and texture, and reduce visible fine lines
  • Works deep into the pores to clear oil and debris, ideal for those with acne-prone skin
  • Controls sebum production to potentially reduce clogged pores and breakouts

Simple Skincare: Science-Based Products for Every Skin Type

Microdosing active ingredients is a great way to get the most out of your skincare: all the benefits without the side effects! Take our Skincare Quiz to learn which actives in our Shop work best for your skin type and concern. 

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