Last week we already talked about 6 effective beauty ingredients that can improve your skincare routine, but in all the excitement, we forgot to mention another superstar that has been particularly touted this year. Allow us to introduce you to: retinol.
However, while some praise its merits, others fear the side effects and do not dare to use it. So, what is it really? Well, before the rumors spread any further, we've concocted the perfect "retinol wake-up" recipe for you.
It's got everything you need to know: what retinol is, what it can do for you, how to apply it, what you should watch out for, and how long it takes for it to take effect. . Have fun !
The most important first: what is retinol?
Simply put, retinol is a form of vitamin A that can be applied to the skin. To be more specific, we're actually talking about retinoids, because retinol is usually an umbrella term. However, there are a variety of different retinoids available in different concentrations. They all derive from vitamin A, but what differentiates them is their concentration.
The strongest form is retinoic acid, also called retin-A or tretinoin. It is prescription-strength and is often used to fight acne or prevent skin aging. Other retinoids, having a lower concentration, can be purchased without a prescription and are therefore called over-the-counter retinol.
To allay concerns: Yes, it's safe to use (but with some precautions)
In general, retinol can be used by all skin types. However, sensitive or easily irritable skin should be careful! It is important to note that retinol is absolutely safe to use, but the skin needs to get used to it first. In people with sensitive skin, it may therefore take longer to get used to this powerful ingredient.
It is also wise to exercise caution with sun damage or heavily damaged skin, as this could cause increased irritation, redness, or flaking. In these cases, it is wise to consult a professional dermatologist to assess the condition of your skin and determine which products are best for your skin.
Every Light Casts a Shadow: Side Effects
If we're already talking about redness, peeling, and skin irritation, we're already onto the next topic: side effects. According to experts, there are a few reasons why your skin may react adversely after applying retinol.
In summary, there are 4 main points:
- Too frequent and too rapid use, without giving the skin time to adapt
- Using too much of the product
- Not properly preparing your skin
- Mix with other harmful ingredients, such as acne treatments or peels
The Golden Rule When Your Skin Reacts to Retinol: Don't Panic
As mentioned earlier, skin reactions are quite common and are not too difficult to manage. If you notice any skin irritation, we recommend reducing the amount of retinol or taking a break for a while and letting your skin rest from any other skin care products you may be using. Instead, go back to basics using a gentle cleanser and a very simple, pure moisturizer, until your skin calms down again.
Once everything returns to normal, you can gradually return to retinol. However, be sure to apply it less frequently and at a lower concentration - follow a regular schedule to gradually increase tolerance.
Okay, let's get down to business: How does it work?
So what makes retinol so special? Compared to many other skin products that only work on the surface, retinol works at a much deeper level, penetrating beyond the top layer to the dermis.
In the middle layer of the skin, molecules neutralize free radicals and support the production of elastin and collagen, responsible for the elasticity and firmness of the skin. The pumping effect thus triggered results in a reduction in the appearance of wrinkles, lines and larger pores. Yes, you heard right - it's the perfect anti-aging ingredient.
In addition, it also has an exfoliating effect. It removes dead skin cells and thus can improve the texture and tone of your skin.
Almost finished, but there is one thing worth mentioning. Retinol is also a great way to combat acne and the scarring that results from it. It unblocks pores by forming comedolytic substances that prevent the formation of blackheads and pimples.
Okay, the last point, we promise! Retinol is also helpful in balancing your skin's moisture level. By removing dead skin cells, it prevents moisture loss. This can also be helpful for oily skin as it controls excessive oil production in the pores.
Retinol is your best friend if...
...you want to treat the following skin problems:
Wrinkles Fine lines Acne Sun spots, freckles or other sun damage Premature aging Rough skin texture Dull complexion Hyperpigmentation Enlarged pores due to acne, excess oil production or loss of collagen Please note that retinol must be applied daily and regularly to achieve satisfactory results. Plus, it takes some time to see results. For complex skin problems, it is always best to consult a dermatologist
How to use it ?
We've said it before: your skin needs time to get used to retinol. Experts therefore recommend slow and gentle application. In other words, use small amounts and low concentration first. To test, you can use a small, pea-sized amount and then wait to see how your skin reacts. If your skin accepts the new ingredient well, you can further integrate it into your skincare routine.
If your skin reacts poorly, you can try mixing retinol with your moisturizer and only using it once or twice a week to see how your skin copes with it. Take it slowly and gradually increase the frequency of application per week.
Alternatively, you can apply retinol only at night, which has another benefit because retinol also makes your skin more sensitive to the sun. So if you choose to use it in the morning, it's important to also use a sunscreen of at least 30. You should be doing this daily anyway. Make sure you use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects you against UVA and UVB rays. If you need more information about this, you've come to the right place.
In a world where everything has to move quickly - how long should you wait to see results?
Like everything in this world, retinol is not a quick fix. It takes time to see significant results. On average, this takes around four to six weeks. In some cases, like severe acne, it can even take up to three months.
However, if you're using it to prevent skin aging, retinol also works faster because it opens pores and improves skin tone for a healthy skin glow.
If you want to achieve significant results in improving collagen and elastin production, you need to use it long term, i.e. for at least six months. At that time, your wrinkles and pigmentation will fade.
What if I don't want to wait that long to enjoy clear, wrinkle-free, radiant skin?
Then we have something for you! Luckily, retinol isn't the only magical skincare ingredient that works so well. Hyaluronic acid, anti-aging peptide AHP-8 and vitamin B also work wonders! Especially when they are applied exactly where they are needed.
Like retinol, AND SHINE's microneedle patches penetrate beyond the top layer of skin and deliver active ingredients to a deeper level to truly nourish your skin from the inside out. There's a patch for every scenario with simple, pain-free overnight application. All you have to do is stick the patch , sleep, and wake up in the morning with a healthy-looking face.
And yes, compared to retinol, they work much faster - they are even clinically proven to work from the first application.
Sources: Healthline , Healthline , Chateleine , Glamor , Glamor