OHLAMOUR STUDIO/ Stocksy
In This Article
Every era has its own iteration of magic in a bottle.
The one thing wearesure of?
We’re all interested but uninformed.
OHLAMOUR STUDIO/ Stocksy
What Is Retinol?
It’s converted to retinaldehyde, and then to the active form retinoic acid, she explains.
In other words, retinaldehyde is strongest, then retinol, then retinol ester.
Who should use it:In general, anyone looking to reduce the signs of skin aging.
How often can you use it:Start with twice a week to prevent irritation.
Because sunlight deactivates retinol, apply it at night, followed by a moisturizer.
Works well with:Hydrating cleansers, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides.
It can stimulate the metabolism of skin cells and encourage collagen production, explains Rouleau.
Its magic is in its ability to resurface the skins texture for a smoother, more even-toned look.
What’s the Difference Between Retinol, Retin-A, and Retinoid?
Nazarian says that bothRetin-Aand retinol are in the class of medications known asretinoids.
You will need to speak to a dermatologist about getting a prescription.
It also improves the look of wrinkles by retexturing and smoothing the skins surface and reducing pore size.
It can make your skin more sensitive to other products, procedures, and sunlight, notes Mikhail.
And, if you must go in the sun, there are some important sun-exposure precautions.
If you have oily skin at baseline, you might start with a gel or spray.
For combination skin, a lotion or serum might be best.
If you’re dry,choose a cream.
She says these are general guidelines that can vary according to the season and climate as well.
You might need a cream in the cold and something lighter in warm, humid weather, Mikhail explains.
In addition to the various forms, retinol also comes in varying strengths.
Generally, if the concentration isnt specifically labeled, it probably means it’s less than 0.25 percent.
you might work your way up the ladder as tolerated.
In the morning, use a gentle cleanser, and then a moisturizer and a sunscreen, she advises.
At night, wash with a gentle cleanser, and then apply the retinol, followed by moisturizer.
Our experts all say its essential to give your skin a chance to adjust to retinol.
Begin with applying it just once or twice a week on non-consecutive nights.
Gradually increase how often, but not how much, you are using based on how your skin responds.
And, she has some advice if your skin isnt taking well to retinol alone.
If you find your skin is sensitive, peeling, or irritated, don’t lose hope.
Gently rub it in to evenly distribute it over the face.
Use a second pea-sized amount for the neck and decolletage.
Just tread carefully into this fountain of youth, gradually building up tolerance to its famed potency.
Retinol reduces the signs of aging by increasing skin cell turnover and creating a more youthful appearance.
Hyperpigmentation and sun damage may also fade over time.
It may be especially irritating to sensitive skin conditions like eczema or rosacea.
If your skin can tolerate retinol, you’ve got the option to apply it every night.
For beginners, we suggest starting starting slowly, applying once or twice a week on non-consecutive nights.
Gradually increase to alternating nights and, finally, nightly applications.
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