An anti-aging powerhouse, retinol is a skincare tour de force, loved for its smoothing, firming, and radiance renewing benefits. Unsure why you need retinol or if it’s right for your skin? We’ve got all the expert answers to your retinol questions here.
Retinol is skincare’s top anti-aging ingredient—along with suncare of course. Brightening, firming, smoothing, and boosting collagen production, retinol is a must for every skin type, tone, and texture. So, what actually is retinol? Along with other retinoids, retinol is a derivative of vitamin A—a key nutrient for boosting cell turnover. It works by diving deep into skin getting rid of dead cells, promoting collagen, plumping, and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Consistent retinol skincare use improves skin’s radiance, elasticity, and treats any pigmentation issues too.
Retinol for acne is also a powerhouse both in treating and preventing breakouts, as it gets into pores to clean out blackheads and any other blemishes that might be brewing under the surface. Retinol and salicylic acid make the dream team for breakout-prone skin. Some experienced retinol users might want to try an anhydrous (waterless) retinol serum, while for more sensitive skin, retinol tolerance may need to be built up over time. It may feel tingly or cause redness to begin with, so it’s best to start slow and low. You can also use a moisturizer to buffer your retinol serum, adding a few drops to your face cream, or adding your moisturizer first, then applying a retinol serum on top. And, as retinol can make skin photo-sensitive, so it’s best to only apply it at night.