Retinol which is a retinoid (a form of vitamin A) is arguably the best ingredient for fighting the signs of skin aging. It can help to accelerate skin renewal and reduce wrinkles, fine lines and pigment spots, providing firmer and softer skin with a more even skin tone. It is not without reason that retinol is an ingredient we see in many anti-aging skin care products. At the same time, it has also shown good results in reducing acne and preventing clogged pores.
It’s a natural part of life that our skin ages, however, there is external influences that can speed up the aging process and cause the skin to age faster, such as sun exposure, stress, too little sleep, alcohol and smoking. Therefore, retinol has become one of the most preferred ingredients when it comes to antiaging, because it can precisely accelerate skin renewal and reduce sings of aging in the skin.
Retinol works by stimulating cell renewal and promoting the production of collagen and elastin, which naturally decrease with age. Since collagen gives the skin a fuller and more youthful appearance, fine lines and wrinkles can be seen more clearly when production is declining. You may also notice that your skin may look thinner, and dark spots and sun damage may form.
How do you use retinol?
As retinol for some can take time getting used to using on the skin, it is recommended to gradually start using skin care products that contain retinol. If you for example just have bought a serum that contains retinol, start by using the serum 1-2 times a week to avoid skin irritation or redness. If you experience no reaction on the skin after a few weeks, you can increase the frequency by using the product 3-4 times a week.
If you suffer from sensitive skin, you need to be extra careful, and it may be good for you to start with a product with a very low percentage of retinol, or a product that specifically says it is suitable for sensitive skin. Wait 30 minutes after cleansing the skin before applying the product to limit irritation. As retinol can promote sensitivity to the sun, it is very important that you apply it in the evening and follow up with sunscreen the morning after. Over time, retinol can help your skin look plumper and more youthful, but it may take time to notice the results. That is why it is recommended to use retinol for at least six weeks if you want to see some results.
With that said it is important to follow the instructions on the package, but here are the steps you should take in general.
First off you should clean your skin with a gentle cleanser and pat it dry. Afterwards you can apply retinol in a thin layer to your entire face. You should use a dose that’s about the size of a pea and remember not to scrub your skin while using retinol products. At the end finish off with a facial moisturizer that won´t clog your pores.
skincare products with retinol?
If you are on the fence about which product to use, I have compiled a list below of products for everyone that contains retinol.
- One of the best serums with retinol
Revitalift laser pure retinol night serum (L´Oréal Paris)
- The best serum with retinol on a budget
Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion 30 ml (The Ordinary)
- Best crème with retinol
No. 2 day crème SPF 30 (Verso)
- Best smoothing serum with retinol
Blue Retinol Serum Night (Biotherm)
- Best night creme with retinol
Symphonique Night Time (Beuté Pacifique)
Side effects of retinol
Side effects from retinol treatment are usually temporary and should gradually go away as your skin gets used to the new treatment. The side effects can vary from person to person, and they include dry and irritated skin, itching or burning, redness, flaky or scaly skin and sunburn.
To manage the side effects of retinol, you may want to make small adjustments to your skincare routine, so that you can reduce the redness and irritation. If you don’t know how to manage the side effect, I have a few adjustments you can make. You can wait around 30 minutes after washing your face before you apply your retinol product. You should avoid retinol products if you have a sunburn, broken skin or other skin irritations and try to use retinol every other day rather than every day.
And please note, that if you use retinol, you’ll sunburn more easily, which can damage your skin. Using a high dose of retinol may also be associated with the development of skin cancer, so be sure to wear sunscreen and avoid direct sunlight (with clothing/hats) while you use retinol products.