Skincare ingredients are so confusing! Let’s break it down. Today…Retinol.
What Is It?
Retinol, AKA Retinoids or Retinoic Acid, is an anti-aging ingredient. Made from Vitamin A and found in skincare in varying percentages. In every concentration it’s a pretty potent ingredient so can cause irritation (redness or even peeling).
What Does It Do?
Increases collagen production (to plump skin and minimise fine lines) speeds up cell turnover (for smooth skin) and unclogs pores (to fight spots).
What’s It In?
Serum, moisturiser.
- Indeed Labs Retinol Reface Serum, £19.99.
- La Roche-Posay Redermic R Anti-Wrinkle Treatment, £29.50.
- The Ordinary Advanced Retinoid 2%, £8.
- Sunday Riley Luna Sleeping Night Oil, £85.
When to Use?
After cleansing.
Start off slowly. Every third night for 2 weeks, building up to every night.
Push on through the dryness and light peeling stage. It’s part of the process.
Stick with it. It can take 12 weeks to see results.
Don’t:
Use with AHAs as they reduce effectiveness.
Use during pregnancy.
Forget the sunscreen. Retinol makes skin more sensitive to sun exposure, so is best used at night.
Hayley
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Previously on Skincare 101…
Skincare 101: Hyaluronic Acid
Skincare 101: Salicylic Acid (BHA)
Skincare 101: AHAs