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Derm-approved skincare that doesn’t break the bank.
Byrdie / Kevin Liang
Luxury Retinols
Theres no shortage ofover-the-counter retinol productsout there, and many of them are affordable.
Plus, its fragrance and dye-free, so sensitive skin types can proceed without caution.
However, this serum from L’Oreal Paris is different.
PHOTO: CVS
You get legit retinol in this featherweight serum.
We love how it absorbs quickly into the skin and goes to work right away.
It also contains too major hydrators (hyaluronic acid and glycerin) to help prevent dryness.
PHOTO: Amazon
Enter this innovative option, from RoC, one of the most beloved drugstore retinol brands.
Peptides smooth skin by increasing collagen production.
This creamy serum checks all of those boxes.
PHOTO: Amazon
Not to mention that its also fragrance-free, a must for sensitive skin types.
Everything you oughta know about the straightforward formula is right in the name.
That’s where this eye cream comes in.
PHOTO: Amazon
After testing it, we were very happy with the results, especially since they were evident almost immediately.
And our skin tends to soak up oil more readily than heavy creams.
Its slow-released to cut back on side effects, which we love for our sensitive-skinned friends.
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It’s also combined with hydrating hyaluronic acid and squalane to keep dryness at bay.
These ingredients can also help smooth skin and diminish fine lines, so it’s a win-win.
We just wish it came in a more hygienic container (aka not a screw-top).
PHOTO: Amazon
You’ll also get a dose of vitamin E to combat redness and inflammation.
Our only word of caution is it may be too heavy for the face, and subsequently cause breakouts.
Youll want to start slow withretinol creamor serum.
PHOTO: Amazon
Initially, applying it once a week at night is your best bet.
And youll want to follow it with a moisturizer because it can be drying.
Once your skin is used to retinol, you’re free to progressively use it more often.
PHOTO: Ulta
The same holds for aretinol body lotion.
Hyaluronic acid is neither better nor worse than retinol, as the two ingredients serve different functions.
Dont expect quick results from retinol.
Byrdie / Leigh Weingus
DermatologistMarnie Nussbaumtells Byrdiethat “Diligent use of Retin-A is needed for two to three months to see visible results.
Pending potency, OTC retinol can take up to six months to see results.”
You also may notice that your pores are less clogged than they were before you started using it.
PHOTO: Amazon
Shes a big fan, both personally and professionally, of drugstore skincare products, retinol included.
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Byrdie / Amelia Scwartz
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PHOTO: Byrdie / Bianca Lambert
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