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“I never use retinol,” she says.
It’s commonly prescribed for acne, fine lines, and sun damaged skin.
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“Korean consumers generally prefer low-irritation ingredients over those that may stress the skin like retinol.
have launched retinol products catering to overseas customers' needs.”
“I don’t view anti-aging as something one product can deliver.
It’s more a holistic approach to skincare (and nutrition and lifestyle).
“First, skin needs to be properly cleansed.
“I find thedouble-cleansingritual that’s so popular in Korea to be very effective,” she explains.
“Korean skincare is all about consistency and achieving results over time, rather than dramatically and instantly.”
In response to retinol “thickening” the skin, Dr. Mark agrees that this is factual.
“Just like retinol helps with wrinkles, it thickens the skin by stimulating collagen production.”
Retinol helps exfoliate superficial dead layers of the skin, bringing on new,fresh skin.
It helps stimulate new collagen production and delays the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.”
“There is no such thing as using retinol too long.
In fact, the longer a retinol product is used, the better.
The beneficial effects of this ingredient are enhanced when it’s used for an extended period of time.
Yoon’s Retinol-Free Regimen
Have we scared you away from retinol?
If so, know that you don’t have to use the buzzy ingredient to reap its age-reversing benefits.
However, it’s important to note that acids still have the potential to irritate sensitive skin.
Find her full routine below.
“[This toner] has no alcohol, tons of antioxidants, and royal jelly.
All in all, it balances pH, hydrates intensively, and nourishes skin,” she says.
Lately, Yoon is also reaching for Cremorlab’s Mineral Treatment Essence.
“One of my go-to serums is the Shangpree S-Energy Long Lasting Concentrated Serum.
Since Yoon has dry skin, she incorporates oil into her beauty routine.
“I have been using the Peach Slices Citrus Honey Aqua Glow as a serum plus moisturizer.
It’s formulated to soak into the skin and help create a barrier to seal everything in.
For the skin, it helps to boost collagen, lighten discoloration, and fight free radicals.
Once a week, she uses a vitamin C treatment for a brightening effect.
“It really helps fight free radicals and lighten dark spots.
This formula is used in many skin clinics in Korea for how potent it is,” she says.
“Sometimes, I do serums even after masking to better absorb product.
According to the brand, the serum contains bakuchiol and 0.1% retinol for gentle effectiveness.
If you’re looking for a gentle K-Beauty retinol, try the cult-favorite MEDIHEALRetinol Collagen Lifting Pad.
According to the brand, the formula is dermatologist tested for sensitive skin.
Another gentle option includes a retinol alternative like bakuchiol.
Zasada M, Budzisz E.Retinoids: active molecules influencing skin structure formation in cosmetic and dermatological treatments.Postepy Dermatol Alergol.
2018;23(4):863. doi:10.3390/molecules23040863
Telang PS.Vitamin C in dermatology.Indian Dermatol Online J.
2013 Apr;4(2):143-6. doi: 10.4103/2229-5178.110593
