Beginner Skincare help plz

[MeadowLines]

I'm mid 30s and have never really had a skincare routine. I've bought myself a retinol cream and a collagen cream which Im looking forward to using. But I have quite dry skin on my forehead and it often feels flaky, so how often should I exfoliate my face? And should I start the retinol just 2 nights per week, and the collagen every day?

Thank you!

@MeadowLines Depends what kind of exfoliator you use. If you buy a chemical exfoliator such as Paula's Choice or Pixi Glow Tonic, I'd go every other day to start with (must wear SPF when using these due to AHA's) and build up to everyday. If you go for a physical exfoliation I.e a face wash with exfoliating particles go with 2 times a week initially and up to 3 when you are used to it.

If you are using retinol, you must wear SPF as it compromises your skin barrier and you are likely to do damage/burn your skin if you don't. Twice a week on an evening is good start for retinoids. After applying it, allow 5 mins or so to soak in before applying moisturiser otherwise it can compromise the retinol and make it ineffective. I've never used collagen so unsure what to advise on that