Yes, we get how it might be overwhelming to know where to start when so many skincare components are making headlines, and new ones seem to emerge every month. And as we speak, there is no substance in skincare that is more highly praised than retinol, a member of the vitamin A family that has been used for more than 40 years to treat fine lines, wrinkles, and roughness. But unlike your typical active ingredient, it takes a deliberate plan to get it correctly.
The following is a very found high guide that explains all you need to know about this wonder ingredient, including what it is, how it works, how to use it, when to use it, and a list of our best-loved retinol deals.
Understanding its’ benefits
Firstly, you need to know how retinol works to ensure it’s right for you. Retinol is one form of vitamin A (the most well-known), but all forms are known as the gold-standard of anti-aging. Highly regarded by dermatologists and skin therapists alike, it is second to none when it comes to improving signs of photo-aging. Vitamin A can stimulate cellular turnover in the skin, pushing fresh skin cells to the surface for a smoother, youthful-looking complexion. This also helps to clear pores for blemish-free skin.
Before going any further, let’s first clarify the distinction between retinol and retinoids. Both retinoid and retinol are types of derivatives of vitamin A, while retinol is a weaker substance.
Retinol requires fewer conversions than retinoids do in order for vitamin A to be metabolized by your skin. This indicates that it is available without a prescription, in contrast to retinoids, the most potent derivative of vitamin A, which may only be obtained via prescription.
When should I start using retinol?
Most dermatologists agree that retinol should be introduced into your skincare regimen around the age of 25 or so. Basically, this is when the skin starts to lose vital compounds that help it to remain structurally supple.
When introducing a retinol product into your routine for the first time, choose a formulation that is suitable for all skin types. Start by using your product 2-3 times per week and gradually build up to daily use. You will see exceptional results.
How to incorporate retinol into your skincare routine?
It is not uncommon for beginners to initially experience slight irritation or a few breakouts. To lessen or avoid this from happening, you should start with the less frequent application ( no more than two or three times a week)-
Furthermore, here’s your skincare routine ft. Retinol-
- After washing your face, put on an eye cream. The sensitive skin around your eyes will be better protected by an eye cream.
- A few minutes should pass before your skin is entirely dry. This is crucial because retinol will be able to penetrate your skin more deeply if it is moist, which could irritate it. On somewhat damp skin, we want to apply serums and moisturizers but never retinol.
- Apply retinol with a pea-sized amount using upward and outward motions with your fingertips, beginning at the chin.
- Apply your moisturizer last.
- The next morning, remember to reapply a broad-spectrum sunscreen because retinol increases skin’s sensitivity to the sun.
The “sandwich approach” is a retinol routine trick that you can do if you have sensitive skin. Apply some moisturizer, a layer of retinol the size of a pea, and then another layer of moisturizer after cleansing, toning and applying your serum.
Retinol functions best at night for a variety of reasons. Even if the body temperature is lower at night, more sweat is evaporated from the skin. The rate of cell healing for sun-damaged skin is dramatically increased. The skin has a low pH and is more permeable than other tissues.
How often should I use retinol?
Retinol functions as a mild chemical exfoliator, which is excellent because it hastens the turnover of skin cells. Brighter, firmer skin results from increased skin cell renewal. Retinol can be used to treat uneven skin tone and texture. However, not everyone can immediately manage this exfoliation on a nightly basis.
When first using retinol, a beginner should only use it two to three times a week. If your skin accepts it well, you can gradually raise this amount. Our Renewal Retinol is one of the best retinol treatments after your skin develops a resistance to it and is mild enough to be used every night.
What products can I use with retinol?
Retinol makes the skin age faster if used during the day because it makes it more sensitive to the sun. When using retinol at night, your skin needs extra protection during the day. So besides sunscreen, a high-quality vitamin C serum will help protect your skin, fight free radicals and not have adverse reactions when in contact with sunlight.
- Another easy method for beginners who find the sandwich method a bit complicated is to skip the first layer of moisturizer. After putting on the retinol, promptly follow it up with a moisturizer containing glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and antioxidants to relieve dryness.
- Regardless of your skin type, the main rule for a retinol routine is to incorporate something hydrating and nourishing on top in order to avoid dryness and irritation.
Beginner-friendly retinol recommendations-
Never make these mistakes!-
- Do not apply retinol before facial peel, threading/waxing/laser hair removal sessions to avoid irritating your skin. Start using retinol again after one or two days.
- Do not apply retinol right after exercise to avoid stinging sensation or irritation.
- Avoid retinol while traveling. Concentrate on maximum sun protection and moisturization while traveling. Resume your retinol routine after two to three days upon arriving home.
- Do not layer retinol with benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and alpha-hydroxy acids as they may deactivate retinol’s effects and can be super drying to your skin.
FAQs
1. Does retinol cause skin thinning?
There are so many myths about retinol, but there are two that really need debunking. Retinol does not thin the skin, despite popular belief. In fact, because retinol stimulates the collagen-producing cells in the dermis, it helps to thicken the skin, the process just takes time.
2. Is retinol only for older people?
Second, people often say retinol is only for older people – wrong. Vitamin A is a great treatment for acne, which is an issue any age group can struggle with. We forget that collagen production stops quite early, so using retinol from our mid to late twenties can keep our ‘collagen bank’ topped up, slowing down the skin’s aging process.
3. How much time until one can see visible results of retinol?
It can take at least 12 weeks to see the effects of your retinol treatment. So patience is key. Chopping and changing too frequently is what causes irritation and damage, so stick with it and you’ll reap the benefits.
4. Can all skin types use retinol?
Any skin type can use retinol. However, retinol newbies with fair or sensitive skin should be extra careful as they may experience irritations. It may take more time for your skin to adjust to this powerful ingredient.
5. How to apply retinol if my skin is dry and sensitive?
For dry skin, build up your use of retinol slowly, starting from twice a week and gradually building up to daily uses once your skin has built up a tolerance. The same applies if your skin is sensitive, as retinol can potentially exacerbate any existing skin concerns, such as flakiness and peeling. So again, it’s best to approach with caution and seek professional advice if you’re unsure.
6. If My Skin Cannot Adapt to Retinol, Which Alternative Should I Use?
Bakuchiol, a plant-based ingredient, can help you achieve bright skin. It has 3 functions: to calm, soothe, and heal, as well as anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial effects. It protects the skin from environmental stresses and pollutants as a powerful antioxidant, while also combating the primary indicators of aging by targeting free radicals.
Key Takeaways
Retinol, you either love it or fear it, and we can understand the latter. After all, there’s no shortage of horror stories about peeling dry skin as a result of retinol product misuse. But retinol, and really the entire retinoid family, doesn’t have to be scary at all. We just need to use it safely and correctly.
As with all skincare products, it’s advisable to do your homework when purchasing retinol and start with a low-strength formula, we have mentioned a few in this guide along with the concentrations so might wanna take a look at those.
That said, we hope this might take a toll on your confused thoughts, and well, do make the right use of retinol to get the skin you’ve always dreamt of!
