Retinol is one of the most popular skincare ingredients.  It is touted to improve skin texture as well as diminish fine lines and wrinkles. It also has the ability to improve skin tone. However, using retinol for the skin can be tricky, picking up a retinol-based product and slathering it on your skin is definitely not the way to go about it.

Retinol is a vitamin A derivative. Vitamin A derivatives fasten the skin renewal process and stop dead cells from clogging pores and causing further problems. They stimulate cell repair and also boost collagen production. There are two different types of vitamin A derivatives. They are called retinol and retinoids.

Retinol is converted to the active form, 'retinoic acid', after absorption into the skin. It is milder and safe enough to be used in over-the-counter products. Retinoids, on the other hand, are very potent and are available only by prescription from a dermatologist.

One of the reasons why retinol is so popular in the skincare segment is because it offers more than one skin benefit. This includes but is not limited to;

  • Exfoliates skin
  • Reduces pigmentation and uneven skin tone
  • Makes skin bright and glowy
  • Offers anti-aging benefits
  • Prevents acne

What is the best age to start using retinol?

In small proportions and with the help of a dermatologist, you can start using retinol for your skin early on for better maintenance of your skin.

Retinol can be used to address different skin concerns, if you are using retinol for its anti-acne benefits, then you can use it at any age. Teenagers with skin congestion, blackheads and whiteheads do well on retinol. The ideal age for using retinol as a part of your anti-aging skincare is after 27 years. This is when your natural skin renewal slows down and makes your skin dull.  

How to use retinol for best results?

  • Use retinol at night

Include retinol in your night time skincare routine, and apply the recommended amount every night before going to bed to address your skin concerns. “Wearing it during the day will be a bad idea because sunlight deactivates retinoic acid and there will be no effect whatsoever.

  • Begin slow

Retinol can cause redness, dryness, and flaking when you first start using it. This is called ‘retinisation'. You can minimize this reaction by starting slowly. Use retinol every other night till your skin feels comfortable. Another way to ensure that your skin is safe is to use your moisturizer several times during the day.

  • Use sunscreen

As mentioned above, retinol can cause some dryness and redness, and going out without a layer of sunscreen will only make your skin susceptible to other skin problems. Plus, the results you are expecting with using retinol for the skin will be delayed further. Therefore, always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day.

Be cautious of these;

  • Overuse of active ingredients such as retinol can make your skin sensitive, therefore follow instructions as recommended by your dermatologist.
  • Inadequate hydration during retinol use can make your skin very dry, flaky, and red. 
  • Failure to use sunscreen can result in sunburn and pigmentation as retinol will expose your skin to harsh UV rays.
  • Retinol is not safe to use by pregnant and breastfeeding women. 

Yours beaute,

Kaosara.


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