What is Retinol?
Hello Beautiful! I’ve gotten a few questions about this topic and I’m here to help you understand what retinol is, how to use it, and the benefits it gives you.
Retinol
Retinol is a type of retinoid that works to increase collagen production as well as increases the rate of skin cell turnover. They help treat acne, blackheads, and clogged pores by reducing the cells that clog pores. They also speed up the rate at which skin cells regenerate.
These wonderful benefits improve your skin’s overall texture by minimizing fine lines and wrinkles, evening out skin tone, and decreasing pore size.
Options
When it comes to retinol, I have an abundance of options for you, all with different benefits.
Calm: our most gentle Vitamin A Serum designed to rejuvenate deep into the skin - $78
Correct: one of the most powerful, non-inflammatory rejuvenation serums available - $86
Renew: Spoil your skin with the most advanced, age-reversing formula available - $96
Clarify: Blemish-prone skin has met its match with this powerful vitamin A serum - $60
How to Use
The best part about retinol is that it works on all skin types and should be used as a daily step in your skincare routine.
Step 1: Stick with a gentle cleanser. I have a few options for you linked here.
Step 2: Apply your retinol serum
Step 3: Always follow your retinol with a moisturizer, especially those with hyaluronic acid and ceramides. If you have sensitive skin, you should add your moisturizer before your retinol.
If this is your first time using retinol, I recommend easing it into your routine by applying once a week and working up to every other or every night, depending on how your skin reacts.
Step 4: Don’t forget your SPF daytime of course!
If you’re curious about how to layer other products in your skincare routine, I can help! Visit this blog: “How to Layer Skincare Products.”
Benefits
Anti-aging: Retinol prevents wrinkles due to its minimizing effect. It also works to smooth out existing fine lines and wrinkles because it helps your skin produce collagen, elasticity, and encourages cell regeneration.
Brightens: Retinol brightens dull skin by exfoliating at a cellular level. The results are brighter, smoother skin.
Decreases acne: Retinol can help regulate oily skin and minimize breakouts.
Improves skin tone: Retinol can help fade dark age spots, sun spots, and is proven to improve hyperpigmentation. It evens out your complexion over time.
Side Effects
Before adding retinol to your skincare routine, it’s my responsibility as an aesthetician to let you know some of the side effects.
Because of its exfoliating powers, when not used in moderation, retinol can cause the skin to redden, peel, or dry out. That is why it is crucial you follow retinol up with a hydrating moisturizer. This may occur even if you do not have sensitive skin. You may experience these side effects when you first introduce retinol, but your skin should stabilize over time. This is why I recommend slowly adding it to your routine.
I’m so excited for you to experience the benefits retinol has to offer and I’m happy to answer any other questions you may have. Just book a consultation with me :)
XOXO,
Tana Marie