Retinol is a hot ingredient in the skincare community, and for good reason! Retinol has several benefits for the skin, but it is important you know how to properly use this powerful ingredient in order to get the desired results. This week in the blog, we are discussing how to start using Retinol, what to expect, and how to advance your skincare to see the best results with this mega-popular ingredient.
What is Retinol?
Before we get into the ins and outs of Retinol, what is it? Retinol is a form of Vitamin A that is most frequently used to help with anti-aging and blemish-prone skin. Retinol in higher doses must be prescribed by a dermatologist, but Retinol in lower doses is available both online and in stores over the counter.
Where to Start
When starting on your Retinol journey, it is best to start slowly to try and avoid any excess dryness. We suggest starting with Serum 16 Rapid Renewal Serum every three nights to ease your skin into the new routine. Serum 16 is formulated with 2x the Vitamin A of Retinol & Retinal and 16% Microencapsulated Retinol Complex to help improve the appearance of an uneven skin tone and smooth the look of fine lines and wrinkles. Some ways to ease into Retinol is to create a barrier between your skin and Retinol. First apply moisturizer, then Retinol, then moisturizer again. The Retinol will still work this way but will not penetrate your skin directly.
What to Expect
When starting to use Retinol, it is normal to experience “purging”, which is when your skin is getting cleansed from the deepest level. Retinol helps shed dead skin cells as it pushes oil and/or skin impurities to the surface to help create a healthier-looking complexion over time. But don’t fret! This is totally normal and *should* pass once your skin has adjusted to the ingredient. However, if your skin becomes red and sensitive and it does not improve after 2-3 months, you may be too sensitive for Retinol. If this is the case, we recommend using Bakuchiol Complete Plant Based Retinol Alternative Serum, which is similar to Retinol but is formulated with gentler, Retinol alternatives that give similar results.
How to Upgrade
Once your skin has adjusted to Retinol and you feel like you are ready for the next step, it may be time to upgrade to Serum 24 from our Elite line! Think of Serum 24 Rapid Renewal Complex Featuring LG-Retinex as the older sister to Serum 16. Serum 24 is similar to Serum 16, but it has a higher level of Retinol and Retinal for more dramatic results. Serum 24 is clinically proven to help visibly reduce the look of medium to deep lines while encouraging a complexion that appears brighter and firmer.
To shop more skincare products to pair with your Retinol journey and other bestselling skincare to add into your routine, head to cosmedix.com
