All You Need to Know About Retinol

When it comes to defense against fine lines and maintaining a healthy glow, there is no I ingredient that is more lauded, than the gold standard, one and only retinoid! Topical or oral, this ingredient is a one in a million, irreplaceable and powerful!

• What is retinol?

To bring it back to the basics, retinol—alongside other retinoid, such as retinoic acid and retinol palmitate—is essentially a derivative of vitamin A, the group of fat-soluble vitamins common in carrots, eggs and sweet potatoes , which is one of the body’s key nutrients for boosting cell turnover.

There are two common types of retinol serums: pure retinol serums with highly concentrated formulas that should be introduced gradually into a skincare routine and used just once a day; and milder retinol serums that blend retinol with other skincare ingredients and can be used morning and night. Both can visibly improve the appearance of the tone and texture of the skin. 

• Benefits of Retinol

Applying vitamin, a topically in the form of retinol can include the following benefits:

1. Prevent wrinkles due to its minimizing effect, as well as smooth out existing fine lines and wrinkles.
2. Brighten dull skin by exfoliating at a cellular level, which results in brighter and smoother new skin.
3. Regulate oily skin and minimize breakouts.
4. Fade dark age spots, sun spots and hyperpigmentation and even out complexion over time.

– How often should you use retinol serum?

A serum that blends retinol with other key ingredients can be used twice a day (morning and night) from first use, while a pure retinol serum should be gradually introduced into a skincare routine. Apply every third evening to build skin’s tolerance, then gradually increase to nightly application. 

A skin care routine at age 30, three to four times a week. By the 40s, every other night is beneficial and in the 50s, 60s and beyond, incorporate a retinol product five to seven times per week.

–      How to use retinol serum?

A retinol serum should be used after cleansing and toning, as part of your regular skincare routine. Follow with a hydrating night cream and apply SPF moisturizer the next morning. When applying, don’t stop at your face, apply on your neck as well.

–       When to Expect Results

As with any other skin care product, the key to seeing results is consistent use. a brighter, smoother skin tone is noticeable after 2-3 weeks of consistent use, retinol serum also helps to smooth skin’s texture, reduce the appearance of pores and pigmentation, and brighten skin tone

–       What about oral retinoid?

Oral retinoid are with no doubt the most effective solution to sever acne, however due to their possible side effects and effective action, along with prolonged duration they have to be prescribed by your doctor before use.

Retinol serum is an absolute must, but a proper skincare routine consists of several elements, including vitamin c and hyaluronic acid, for maximum benefits and a healthy glow, take care of your skin and body, it’s your only long lasting investment!