Many people say that retinol is a magical active ingredient that works miracles on the skin, such as improving premature aging, unifying the skin tone , stimulating collagen production and working as a protective barrier against acne.
In this blog you will learn how and when to add Retinol to your daily skincare routine.
What is retinol?
Retinol is the vitamin A in the form of a cosmetic active and is part of the retinoid family, it can be sold to the public in cosmetic and dermocosmetic products depending on its concentration or can also be prescribed by a dermatologist who in most cases prescribes Retinoic Acid which is much more effective than retinol as it is pure vitamin A form.
It is one of the most popular active ingredients in the world and its fame is justified since it is one of the most effective ingredients to treat acne, improve, and unify the tone of your skin, while fighting premature aging signs.
It has many benefits but it must be applied wisely, as many people have purchased dermocosmetic products or cosmetics with retinol without taking into account the use and application it requires, you must gradually adapt the skin to receive the retinoids.
What do dermatologists think about retinol?
Dermatologists love retinoids because they are a good option for treating oily and acne-prone skin, as long as it’s used in moderation. These are some of the benefits:
- Improves the texture and evens your skin tone.
- Best asset for reverse photoaging.
- Regulates sebum production in your skin.
- Closes pores.
- Helps with the cellular renewal of your skin cells.
- Promotes the collagen synthesis.
- Works as an antioxidant.
- Improves fine wrinkles.
- It fights against flaccidity and low collagen production.
When to start using retinol on your skin?
Add retinol to your daily skincare routine if you have oily skin or skin prone to acne skin. Also when you start to notice the first signs of premature aging on your skin such as fine lines and noticeable wrinkles that occur between the ages of 25 and 30.
How to start using retinol on your skin?
The key to get your skin to accept a new strong ingredient like retinol, is to know how and when to apply it. Here are a few things to keep in mind when adding retinol to your skincare routine.
- Look for a retinol cream with low concentration as these are better tolerated by beginner skins. Over time you can increase its concentration with the help of a dermatologist.
- Always moisturize your skin after using retinol.
- During the day apply and reapply sunscreen as the skin becomes more sensitive.
- Apply to clean, dry skin. Moisture on the skin beforehand may cause irritation.
- Use it every 3 to 4 days a week to see the skin’s reaction to this active ingredient. If you see that the application is healthy and effective, increase its frequency of use by 2 to 3 days.
- Avoid applying retinol if you are breastfeeding or pregnant.
How much retinol should I use?
Start with a minimal amount, 2 pushes, and spread it all over your face excluding the most sensitive areas(around the eyes, nose and mouth).The skin tends to absorb a certain amount of retinol, so applying a larger amount would be wasting the product and could increase the risk of allergies and irritations, be careful. When it comes to retinol, less is more. Remember to apply it gently all over your face while it is clean and dry.
Before we finish, let’s answer a couple of questions you may have about retinol and its use.
Can I use retinol during the day?
No, retinol can only be used at night.
Why use retinol only at night?
Retinol is a ligh t-sensitive ingredient, so it is recommended to use only in your night skincare routine and the next day you should use sunscreen during the day to avoid dark spots and burns.
What products can I NOT use with retinol?
You cannot use Retinol with salicylic acid, glycolic acid, nor vitamin C as they can cause skin blemishes, in addition, acids work as chemical exfoliants that prevent acne and when combined with retinol they become very strong actives that can cause allergies and irritations.
Can I use retinol every day?
Yes, you can use retinol every day in your nightly routine as long as your skin is already used to the product, otherwise it can cause irritations and allergies. That is why it is recommended to apply it from 3 to 4 days a week and increase its use after seeing effective results.
Meet our Retinol Moisturizer Cream!
Our Retinol Moisturizer Cream stimulates cell renewal and collagen synthesis, helping to diminish and prevent the appearance of blemishes, wrinkles, fine lines and enlarged pores. In addition, it hydrates, moisturizes and firms while improving the texture and tone of your skin. It also prevents and corrects signs of premature aging making your skin look healthy, radiant and youthful, it’s one of our favorites!
It is one of the favorites of our IK LOVERS also because it contains.
Now that you know how and when to use retinoids in your skincare routine, try our IK favorites to help you maintain and show a youthful, healthy and luminous skin.