Retinol is a pure form of Vitamin A. Your skin uses Vitamin A to naturally regenerate and repair itself. It’s often considered the gold standard for anti-aging because of its clinically proven power to renew skin.
What It Does
The rejuvenating benefits of retinol include:
- visible reduction in the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines
- plus improvements in texture,
- improvements in skin tone
- increased skin radiance
So How Does It Work?
Instead of exfoliating skin and removing dead cells, retinol provides anti-aging benefits by stimulating cellular turnover. Bringing new, healthy cells to skin’s surface for a more youthful appearance. They are also amazing for fighting acne, as they unclog pores.
Here Are 6 Retinoid Rules
Rule #1: Always use your retinoid at night!
UV radiation breaks most retinoids down, rendering them ineffective. Even those which are considered light-stable are still best used at night. At night, skin is best resourced for repair and regeneration when it’s not battling with the daytime onslaught of UV exposure and pollution.
Rule # 2: Start slow!
Initially apply a pea-sized amount every 3rd night. Build up your tolerance to using retinol nightly over the course of 6 weeks, as tolerated.
6 weeks is a skin cycle so this is a sensible time-block over which to monitor your progress.
Rule #3: Have realistic expectations around progress!
This part is SO important.
In the first 6 weeks focus on building up your tolerance. If you’re breakout-prone, you might purge a bit. At least 25% of people do. Reducing frequency can help – so if you purge with nightly use, try using it every other night. But plod on, it gets easier.
Rule #4: Have a plan to manage dryness and irritation (because it will happen)
This is probably the biggest fear with retinoid use.
Easy work arounds include:
-Buffering it
-Use little amounts less often
-Incorporate Niacinamide into your skin care routine
-Using a moisturizer duvet – above and below!
Rule #5: Manage sun sensitivity!
Daily sunscreen use is a non-negotiable!
Most progress you make with your skincare products will be counteracted if you don’t use SPF.
Rule #6: Don’t use retinoids whilst pregnant!
Use azelaic acid instead it’s naturally occurring and has little risk of irritation or allergic reaction.
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