Retinol: the “miracle ingredient.” This might be a bold claim for any ingredient, but retinol truly is skincare’s closest thing to a miracle.
This Vitamin A derivative is a staple in skincare routines around the world because of its ability to renew the skin and stimulate collagen production. The perfect recipe to treat acne and fight signs of ageing.
There are many reasons to love retinol, after all it has the power to:
- Smooth and even out texture
- Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Fade sun spots and acne marks
- Keep your pores clear
While including retinol in your skincare routine is a no-brainer, you must know how to incorporate it so you can maximise its benefits.
New to retinol?
Start slow and keep it simple
Retinol is a powerful ingredient and your skin might need some time to get used to it. Start with a gentle form of retinol (we recommend retinol ester, more on that later) to build tolerance. Apply once to twice a week to start, and based on your skin’s reaction, slowly increase frequency.
If you use other active ingredients in your skincare routine, like glycolic acid, salicylic acid or physical exfoliators, skip them on the days you use retinol. Otherwise, your skin might get sensitized and feel irritated.
Less IS more
There is such a thing as too much of a good thing, especially when we’re talking about retinol. It’s tempting to add more than recommended in the hopes that we’ll wake up with the skin of a Vogue model. But, with retinol, when we say to use one pump or a pea-sized amount, we mean it. This little dollop is enough for to deliver the results you’re after.
Works while you Zzz
Add retinol as part of your PM skincare routine. After cleansing and toning apply your retinol before your moisturiser.
Retinol is photosensitive, meaning that it breaks down with light exposure. Additionally, retinol can increase your sensitivity to the sun, making you more susceptible to a burn or damage. Keep it to evening use only. On that note, don’t forget to wear your SPF in the daytime.
Choose the right retinol for your skin type and concern
Ok, now you know to start slow, apply at night and not more than what you need. Now’s time to choose the best one for your skin.
Get to know your retinols
Yes, there are different types of retinol available. You should choose based on your skin condition and goals. At facetheory, we use these three:
Retinoic Acid: Potent but not irritating
Encapsulated Retinol: Great for long-term benefits
Retinol Ester: The most gentle and best for newbies
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For mature skin
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Best for dry skin types
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Retinol Ester
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Your skincare routine with retinol
Where does retinol belong in your skincare routine?
Morning Routine
- Cleanse
- Toner
- Serum
- Moisturiser
- Sunscreen
Evening Routine
- Cleanse
- Toner
- RETINOL
- Moisturiser
Things to keep in mind throughout your retinol journey
Flakiness and dryness: Retinol speeds up the rate at which new cells reach the surface of your skin, it can take some time for your skin to get used to this and may result in flakiness and dryness at first (which is why we recommend you start slow and pair with a moisturiser).
Increased sensitivity to the sun: Renewed skin is more vulnerable to sun damage and irritation. To get the most out of your retinol routine, make sure you protect your skin with a good SPF. If you enjoy sunbathing in the summer or while you’re on holiday, avoid retinol during that time.
Pair with antioxidants, be cautious with acids: The ultimate anti-ageing routine includes retinol to repair and restore, and antioxidants to protect. Vitamin C and E are a wonderful complement to retinol. However, not all ingredients play well with retinol. Be cautious with exfoliating acids like glycolic, lactic, and salicylic. You may not need them as often.
If you experience a lot of sensitivity with retinol you can either try a more gentle formula or mix it with your moisturiser. Remember, slow and steady wins the retinol race.
Other considerations
Avoid retinol if you’re pregnant, and consult with your doctor if you’re breastfeeding.
Retinol – your skin’s new BFF
Whether you are looking to clear up your skin, even out your skin tone or reduce fine lines and wrinkles, retinol’s got you. Everyone can benefit from a little bit of retinol in their routine, it’s just a matter of knowing where to start and which one to use.
Find our entire retinol collection here.
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