Read on for what they shared with us.

Meet the Experts

What Is Retinol?

Think ofretinolas your skin’s ultimate multi-tasker.

a woman applies serum to her face

Artem Podrez / Stocksy

Belkin adds that retinol “helpskeep pores clear… and even helps prevent precancerous cells,” too.

In other words, it’s an MVP in the skincare world.

Is There a Best Time of Year to Start Using It?

“Retinol should only be applied at night,” says Engelman.

Additionally, your skin’s natural repair process is most active while you sleep.

Everyone has different tolerance levels, so Belkin recommends starting with an over-the-counter encapsulated retinol.

(Prescriptionretinoidsare stronger than over-the-counter options.)

Start by using it once a week over moisturizer.

As your skin adjusts, increase to twice a week, then apply it before your moisturizer.

For best results, apply retinol to dry, clean skin.