Table of Contents
What is Retinol?
Retinol in recent days has become the limelight worldwide. Being a derivative of Vitamin A, it makes your skin clear and perfect when used in the right proportion in your skincare regimen. It comes from the retinoid family which is also a derivative of Vitamin A. The very function of this is to speed up the skin turnover which will further result in smooth, bright, and even tone skin.
Benefits
- It stimulates collagen production in the skin, thereby clearing out the fine lines and wrinkles on the face.
- It has anti-inflammatory properties, which will help you fight against acne, clear breakouts, unclog the pores and finally minimize the acne scars on the skin.
- Since it accelerates the turnover of the cells, it provides you with brighter, smoother, and even younger skin.
- It will soothe your skin, and provide an even tone complexion radiating skin tone.
- Free radicals cause damage to your skin, but with the application of retinol which is an anti-oxidant, you can have damage-free skin.
How to Use?
Retinol must be slowly introduced to your skin as follows:
- Introducing it slowly like once or twice in week and then build a steady tolerance to your skin and then gradually make it your skincare routine.
- Pea nut amount of retinol is sufficient for the entire face.
- Make it your nighttime skin care. Since it may be not applicable for some people during the daytime due to sun exposure.
- It will cause dryness to the skin, henceforth you must proceed with the application of moisturizer as the next step.
- A broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is a must for retinol users to prevent UV damage.
Common Side Effects and How to manage them?
Usage of retinol in the initial stages can be challenging. If it irritates, apply it on the top of moisturizer to reduce it. If it causes dryness, combine it with hyaluronic acid or ceramide to smoothen.
Choosing the Right One
Here you have the tips to use the retinol in the right proportion. For beginners, a low concentration of 0.2%–0.5% should be used to avoid the risk of irritation. For experienced candidates, a 1% or more is applicable with a perfect skincare routine. It usually comes in serums, creams, and oils. Be aware that serums are effective whereas creams are gentler and worthy.
Myths
Breaking the stereotypes about the application of retinol,
Myth: It will thin your skin!
Fact: It will thicken the skin by increasing the production of collagen!
Myth: It is not applicable during summer!
Fact: You can apply it as long as you are applying sunscreen lotion in your daily skin routine!
Myth: Immediate visible results!
Fact: Results will be seen in 8 to 121 weeks when used consistently!
Combining Retinol into Your Skin Routine
Is it For You?
Retinol is not for everyone. If you have sensitive skin, use lighter formulations; a patch test before use is mandatory. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it should be avoided. If someone has Eczema or Rosacea, consult a dermatologist before application. For you to contact doctors virtually and to have the best experience, click here.
Conclusion
Retinol is such a powerhouse for the entire skin. You can get radiant and toned skin by knowing the right proportion and formulation for your skincare routine. Do remember it is a long-term investment into your skin. Start using it for your skin’s betterment. Explore our other blog posts for a better understanding of your skin. Click here to explore more about skincare and maintenance.