Retinol is a magical ingredient that has become increasingly popular in skincare products of late due to its numerous skin rejuvenating effects.
But what exactly is retinol? And why is it so good for your skin? In this article, we will explore the science behind retinol and its potential to enhance your skin's health and appearance.
We’ll also explain how to incorporate it into your skincare routine, explore how it works alongside other ingredients, and recommend some great products.
What is retinol and what does retinol do for your skin?
Retinol is a type of vitamin A that is commonly used as an ingredient in skincare products. When applied topically, retinol is converted into retinoic acid, which interacts with skin cells to produce beneficial effects such as improving the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone by boosting cell turnover and promoting collagen production. It is also sometimes used to treat acne.
Benefits of retinol
Retinol is commonly used in skincare products due to its potential to improve skin texture and appearance. It can help:
- Boost cell turnover - by encouraging the skin to renew itself more quickly, retinol can improve the look of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone
- Promote collagen production - collagen is a protein that gives skin its firmness and elasticity. By increasing collagen production, retinol can firm up and tighten your skin
- Unclog pores - retinol can help to unclog pores, which can help to reduce the appearance of acne and blackheads
- Brighten skin - retinol can improve skin tone by reducing the production of melanin, the pigment that gives your skin its colour
How to use retinol
Here’s how to safely incorporate retinol into your skincare routine:
- Start slowly - if you’ve never used retinol before, it’s best to start slowly and build up usage over time to allow your skin to adjust
- Use at night - retinol can make skin more sensitive to sunlight and sunlight can limit the effect of retinol, so it’s best to apply it at night before bed rather than in the morning
- Cleanse first - cleanse your skin thoroughly before applying retinol and wait until it’s completely dry. Use a gentle cleanser
- Apply a pea-sized amount - use a small amount and gently massage it into your skin, focusing on areas with fine lines and wrinkles
- Wait a few minutes - allow the retinol to absorb into your skin for a few minutes before applying any other skincare products
- Follow with moisturiser - retinol can be drying, so it is important to follow up with a moisturiser to hydrate your skin
- Use SPF in the morning - if you have used retinol the night before, be sure to wear a broad-spectrum SPF in the morning to protect your skin from further damage.
How often to use retinol
How often to use retinol depends on several factors, including your skin type, tolerance, and the strength of the product. Best practice is to start with a low concentration of retinol and use it once or twice a week, gradually increasing the frequency as your skin adapts. Here are some general guidelines:
- Beginners - start with a low concentration of retinol (0.5-1%) and use it once or twice a week, gradually increasing frequency as tolerated
- Intermediate users - for those who have been using retinol for a few months, you can use a stronger concentration (1-2%) and apply it 2-3 times a week
- Advanced users - if you have been using retinol for several months and have built up a tolerance, you can use a higher concentration (2-3%) and apply it every night
Remember that everyone's skin is different and what works for one person may not necessarily work for you. That’s why,if you experience any redness, flaking, or irritation, reduce your usage or take a break until your skin returns to its normal state.
Best products containing retinol
Mad Hippie Vitamin A Serum
Mad Hippie Vitamin A is a powerful serum that uses a form of vitamin A that is twice as bioavailable as retinol. That means it can act fast to reduce the appearance of your skin’s wrinkles and discolouration. It also contains a hydrating cocktail of phytoceramide, sodium hyaluronate, oat beta glucan, and aloe vera.
Mad Hippie Vitamin A Serum
Mad Hippie Vitamin A is a powerful serum that uses a form of vitamin A that is twice as bioavailable as retinol. That means it can act fast to reduce the appearance of your skin’s wrinkles and discolouration. It also contains a hydrating cocktail of phytoceramide, sodium hyaluronate, oat beta glucan, and aloe vera.
Skin and Tonic Daily Renew Bio-retinol Moisturiser
Containing dew bean, aloe vera, and geranium, Daily Renewal is a skin-firming, rejuvenating moisturiser that promotes cellular renewal and boosts collagen to reduce the appearance of fine lines. As it doesn’t use a high concentration of retinol, it’s great as an introductory or everyday product, and as an alternative for people with sensitive skin.
Olixa Cacay Oil
Using potent Columbian Cacay, Olixa Cacay Oil is a lightweight facial oil that contains three times as much Vitamin A as Rosehip oil, and more Vitamin E and F than you’d find in Argan oil. It helps to encourage skin cell renewal while nourishing and replenishing the skin, leaving your face smooth, bright and glowing. It’s also a great everyday product or for those with sensitive skin.
