What is Retinol?

Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A. It works to stimulate the growth of new cells, boost collagen production and even up skin tone. The product is also highly effective at reducing fine lines and wrinkles, evening out skin tone, fighting acne and preventing signs of aging such as sun spots, age spots, and pigmentation problems. Retinol creams can be used in a myriad of ways, including in conjunction with other treatment methods such as microdermabrasion or chemical peels (which penetrate deep into your skin). They are best used at night before bedtime since they can make your skin more sensitive to daylight exposure while they do their work during the night. Retinols have been proven to be very effective for anti-aging.

How long does it take retinol to work?

Retinol starts to work in your cells right away, but it will take several weeks before you see an improvement in the look and feel of your skin. In fact, your skin condition may look worse at first as you adjust to the new regimen.

Is retinol good for your skin?

Retinol is a powerful tool against aging skin and acne, but it’s not for everyone. If you’re prone to allergies or have sensitive skin, you might want to try skincare products with alternative anti-aging or skin-clearing ingredients. Importantly, retinol makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight so be sure to use sunscreen and avoid the sun as much as you can while you use retinol products.

How do you use retinol?

Before you use a retinol product for the first time, try a little bit on a small area of skin (a patch test) to see if you have any negative reactions. If, after a couple of days, your skin patch isn’t very red or itchy, you can add retinol to your skincare routine at bedtime. To use retinol, follow the instructions on the package or your provider’s recommendations for application. In general, here are a few tips to begin with: 
- Clean your skin with a gentle cleanser and pat it dry. Don’t scrub your skin while using retinol products.
- Apply retinol in a thin layer to your entire face (be careful not to get it in your mouth, nose and eyes). You should use a dose that’s about the size of a pea. For the first couple weeks of treatment, apply retinol only every other day.
- Finish with a facial moisturizer that won’t clog your pores (non-comedogenic).

A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Use Retinol:

1. Start Slowly

If you're new to retinol, it's crucial to introduce it into your routine gradually. Begin with a lower concentration to allow your skin to acclimate. Starting with a pea-sized amount once or twice a week can help minimize potential irritation.

2. Cleanse Thoroughly

Before applying retinol, ensure your skin is clean and free of makeup, sunscreen, or any other products. Use a gentle cleanser to remove impurities and create a clean canvas for the retinol to be absorbed effectively.

3. Apply on Dry Skin

Pat your face dry and wait a few minutes before applying retinol. Applying it to slightly damp skin can increase the risk of irritation.

4. Pea-Sized Amount

A little goes a long way with retinol. Start with a pea-sized amount for your entire face. Applying too much can increase the risk of irritation without providing additional benefits.

5. Layering Order

If you use other active ingredients in your routine, it's crucial to understand the proper layering order. In general, apply retinol before heavier creams or moisturizers but after lighter serums. Avoid using products with benzoyl peroxide, vitamin C, or other potentially irritating ingredients at the same time as retinol, especially in the beginning.

6. Follow with Moisturizer

Retinol can be drying, so it's essential to follow up with a moisturizer to lock in hydration. This helps mitigate potential dryness or flakiness associated with retinol use.

7. Use Sunscreen Daily

Retinol can increase sensitivity to the sun, making sunscreen a non-negotiable step in your daytime routine. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every morning, even on cloudy days.

8. Be Patient

Results from retinol take time. It might take several weeks to a few months before noticeable changes occur. Be patient and consistent in your application for the best results.

How often can you use retinol?

Since retinol can irritate your skin, it’s best to start slow. After a patch test, you might use a product once every few days, and then gradually ramp up to once or twice per day. At first, you might experience redness, itching or burning, but these symptoms go away as your skin gets used to the treatment.

What are the benefits of retinol?

Retinol has many skin-clearing and anti-aging benefits. Retinol increases the thickness and elasticity of your skin, slows the production of melanin, reduces inflammation and prevents clogged pores.

What are the side effects of retinol?

Side effects from topical retinol treatment are usually temporary. They include:
- Dry, irritated skin.
- Itching or burning.
- Redness, peeling, flaky or scaly skin.
- Sunburn.
These side effects should gradually go away as your skin gets used to the new treatment.

How can you manage the side effects of retinol?

Making small adjustments to your skincare routine may help reduce the redness and irritation that can come with using retinol. It might help to:
- Use only one retinol product at a time.
- Use retinol every other day rather than every day.
- Wait 30 minutes after washing your face before applying your retinol product.
- Avoid retinol products if you have a sunburn, broken skin or other skin irritations.
- Use SPF 30 and wear sun protective clothing and hats to reduce your exposure to the sun.

Ready to create your own retinol product? 
Send us an inquiry below to get started with a consultation!