Retinol has been called the holy grail of skincare products. A miracle cream that can help with acne, texture, and aging, all in one. But how true are these claims? And is it safe to use?
Let’s start with the basics. Retinol is derived from Vitamin A and is available in prescription and over-the-counter formulas. Certain formulas, like tretinoin, have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) since the 1970s.
So, what’s all the hype about? When used appropriately, retinol has many benefits for patients of all ages.
- Smooths skin texture and improves pigment
- Reduces acne breakouts
- Lessens the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Increases production and retention of collagen
- On a cellular level, retinol increases cell turnover of the skin and minimizes dilated pores, making them less likely to trap oil and dirt
It is important to note that retinol should not be used during pregnancy.
For best results, retinol must be applied correctly. Follow the tips below and become a pro!
- Only a pea-sized amount is needed to cover the entire face. Applying too much can lead to dry, red, and irritated skin.
- For best results, start by applying retinol just 2 times per week, tapering up over time to every other day, and then every day.
- Sandwiching retinol between facial moisturizers can make the ingredient less irritating.
- Retinol products should always be applied in the evening. Many of these products contain ingredients that become more unstable in the sunlight. Meaning, retinol won’t be as effective if applied during the daytime.
- Retinol can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight and UV damage, so daily use of SPF 30+ is a must.
And keep in mind, it can take 6 weeks or more to start seeing retinol’s benefits. However, the sooner you start applying this ingredient, the sooner you can improve your overall skin health.