INGREDIENTS

3 min read

Retinol: The Main Character in Skincare

July 18, 2023

A pattern of cosmetic bottles

Where to begin with retinol? Let's start with the basics to get to know this wonderful product. 

 

Retinol is a vitamin A derivative that belongs to a category of chemicals known as retinoids. Because of its numerous benefits, it is widely used in skin care and adored by many. Once absorbed into the skin, retinol is transformed into retinoic acid, the active form of vitamin A. It interacts with specific receptors in skin cells, triggering a variety of biological processes that result in its positive effects.

 

Retinol is generally utilized topically in skincare products such as creams, serums, and lotions because of its potential to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and acne. Everything you require in a single product! Here are a couple of issues that retinol can tackle and make you feel better about your skin than ever before.

Benefits of Retinol

Acne? Never Heard of It

If you want to fight acne and say goodbye to it for good, retinol is the product for you. Retinol has been proven to minimize the visibility of acne and prevent the production of new spots and blemishes on the skin. It also improves the appearance of acne by stimulating cell turnover. Acne develops on our faces when dead skin cells and oil accumulate inside the hair follicles. That is why retinol is here to save the day by shedding those cells and preventing acne from forming. 

Wrinkle Reduction

A widely used and researched anti-aging ingredient, retinol eliminates fine lines and wrinkles and leaves your skin looking more youthful and plumper. When retinol increases collagen production, it begins to work its magic on the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles. By encouraging the formation of new blood vessels in the skin, it showed to improve skin pigmentation. However, be patient with retinol as the first results will be visible after constant use within the first 3-6 months; and for the best results, 12 months. Remember that beauty is worth the wait!

Retinol and Sun Exposure

It has happened to at least one of us that we have been overly exposed to the sun and have ended up with damaged skin. Keep in mind that retinol can help you improve sun-damaged skin, but it can't reverse all of the effects of sun exposure. The potential of retinol to repair UV damage is mostly due to its ability to stimulate collagen formation, improve cell turnover, and decrease pigmentation. Retinol can help reduce the look of fine lines, wrinkles, and skin texture by increasing collagen production, which is sometimes worsened by UV exposure. 

Retinol vs Retinoid

Consider retinoid to be the main character in the story, and retinol to be its companion. Retinol is much weaker than retinoid, which is used to treat serious skin problems. Retinol, on the other hand, still provides various benefits, but it is much more gentle, especially for those with sensitive skin. It also appears in many skincare products and has the ability to reduce the effects of aging. Whatever condition you are currently struggling with, it is best to consult a specialist to determine which of these two chemicals is best and safest for you to use. 

How to Use Retinol?

  • Apply a thin layer to the skin after it has been washed
  • Avoid areas around your eyes and mouth
  • Use moisturizer afterwards
  • Use retinol only at night to avoid unnecessary sun damage
  • For the first few weeks of treatment, use it every other day
  • Pair it with vitamin C to achieve healthy and glowing skin

Side effects

  • Skin irritation: redness, dryness and flaking
  • Sensitivity to sunlight: always wear sunscreen with it
  • Breakouts: in the first week of treatment, some may experience more breakouts than usual as retinol increases cell turnover, bringing clogged pores to the surface
  • Burning sensations: in case this happens, it is recommended to decrease the use or concentration of retinol

As you begin your retinol journey, you will see remarkable changes in your face. The effectiveness of it will make your skin look and feel like it has never before, and your daily routine will be unimaginable without it. Dive into this exciting adventure with retinol and don't miss out on its advantages. Your skin will be grateful!

Comments

2 comments

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Bethany 19/07/2023
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I've always been a bit scared of retinol, there's a lot of room for use to go wrong. However, I'm convinced that I could use this helpful guide to start my retinol journey. Thanks for sharing, it's quite helpful

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MYSA user avatar
erika 19/07/2023
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Dear Bethany, it is so exciting to hear about adding retinol to your skincare routine!

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