Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A and is a very powerful ingredient for minimizing early signs of aging, smoothing skin texture and more. But are you really sure you know him well?
If you have an Instagram account, you’ve probably already heard of retinol, a skincare active that helps many skin imperfections but to be used in moderation and especially by following a few rules.
But let’s take a step back, in this article I will explain the benefits and how to use retinol.
What are the benefits of retinol?
Stimulates collagen: retinol increases the production of collagen, a protein that gives firmness and elasticity to the skin. This is makes it the most powerful anti-wrinkle active in skincare.
Helps treat acne: this ingredient is also effective in treating acne, as it stimulates cell turnover and regulates sebum production.
Smoothes skin texture: Retinol smooths skin texture, making it smoother and minimizing pore size. It also diminishes dark spots, making the skin look brighter.
How is retinol used?
Gradually incorporate it into your skincare: retonol is very potent but can also be very irritating. Supplement it gradually, with a low-dose serum or cream. Use it one or two evenings a week for a month and then increase it slowly according to your skin’s needs.
P.S. remember to introduce retinol during winter and avoiding sun exposure!
Always use a moisturizer: retinol can cause skin dryness during the first few weeks, always use a rich moisturizer. If you have very sensitive skin, you can also try the sandwich technique. Apply a layer of moisturizer, then apply a layer of retinol and finish with another layer of moisturizer. This method minimizes its irritating power!
Sunscreen, every day! retinol is photosensitizing, which means daily sunscreen use is absolutely necessary!
Beware of the eye area and lips: the eye area and lips are very delicate areas. Avoid using your retinol serum and opt for specific products to treat the areas.
Do not use it with other exfoliating actives: retinol has exfoliating power, which means you cannot use it together with actives such as vitamin C or salicylic acid. You may severely irritate the skin. If you don’t want to give up your exfoliating products, try building a “skin cycling” routine, a four-day cycle in which we alternate between exfoliating actives, retinol, and moisturizing and repairing products.
P.S. if you are interested in the Skin Cycling routine, see your dermatologist!
Be patient and consistent: retinol can give incredible results, but these take time. Be consistent in your application. Within a few months, you will see your skin definitely improved.
Results are subjective, in some cases you may see them as early as one month, in other cases you will have to wait at least four months. Be patient!
In synergy with peptides
If until now we have talked about retinol as an indispensable ingredient for the care and beauty of our skin, I have not yet told you that for an additional anti-wrinkle treatment, you can use it in combo with peptides.
These two ingredients work in synergy for excellent resultalti. Retinol is a very powerful antioxidant, which stimulates collagen production and cell turnover. Peptides, on the other hand, moisturize and give elasticity to the skin because of their ability to “build” skin cells.
But how to use these two assets in practice?
You can introduce a retinol serum along with the
Essential Cream
, a moisturizer based on hyaluronic acid and peptides. Alternatively, you can combine a retinol serum with the
Essential Serum
, its moisturizing and soothing power will help you prevent all irritation!
Using these two ingredients together represents the perfect proage skincare routine, ideal for those who want to work on numerous aspects of skin care. This combo will make your skin smoother, smoother, brighter and with less pronounced wrinkles.
If you still have concerns about retinol or your skincare routine, don’t hesitate to ask your dermatologist for help.
Article written by. Paola De Nicola
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