Retinol is a form of vitamin A that is used in skin creams, lotions, and serums to promote skin renewal, brighten skin tone, reduce acne, and boost collagen production. Here are some tips on how to use retinol:
Positive effects:
- Improved skin texture
- Boosted collagen production
- Unclogged pores
- Exfoliated and smooth skin
- Diminished the appearance of hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles
- Improved skin hydration
- Treated acne
Negative effects:
- Retinol can be very irritating if used too frequently or if the formulation is too strong for your skin
- Retinol can cause redness, flakiness, and dryness
Ingredients or materials:
- Encapsulated retinol: This means the ingredient is housed in a carrier system within the cream or serum, which can help reduce irritation
How to use retinol:
- Start with a low percentage over-the-counter formula (around 0.01% to 0.03%)
- Apply a small amount of retinol product every other night to avoid side effects
- Clean your skin with a gentle cleanser and pat it dry
- Apply retinol in a thin layer to your entire face, being careful not to get it in your mouth, nose, and eyes
- Use a dose thats about the size of a pea
- For the first couple of weeks of treatment, apply retinol only every other day
- Finish with a facial moisturizer that wont clog your pores
- Start slow and gradually increase usage to give the skin a chance to acclimate
- If the product makes your skin red and flaky, mix the retinol formula with your moisturizer
- Use retinol once or twice a week at first to see how your skin reacts, and gradually work up to every other day or three times a week
Before using a retinol product for the first time, try a little bit on a small area of skin (a patch test) to see if you have any negative reactions. If, after a couple of days, your skin patch isnt very red or itchy, you can add retinol to your skincare routine at bedtime. If you have sensitive skin, its best to work with a dermatologist or skin care professional to find a good, lower concentration retinol to try.
