What is the best way to apply retinol serum?

hello.
These days, many people are trying to use retinol for skin elasticity, so I've been applying the retinol serum I have about twice a week as well. However, as I continued using it, I started to wonder if I was applying it correctly.
I usually pour some into my palm and apply it all over my face like a regular lotion, but I was wondering if that was okay. I was confused because it wasn't clearly stated on each product how to apply retinol cosmetics or how many times a week to use them.
Are there any useful tips or ways to adjust the frequency that I should keep in mind when using retinol for the first time?