What is Retinol? How does it help your skin?

Well fun fact, Retinol is technically a retinoid, which is a vitamin A derivative. But what you really need to know is that Retinol helps your skin by soaking deep into it and increasing the amount of collagen you produce. It also makes your skin cells regenerate faster. Which means it helps with anti aging and reducing other skin issues like acne, uneven skin texture, fine lines, wrinkles and more.

Remember I am by no means an expert. What has worked for me, may not work for you! Consult your doctor if you have questions or concerns.

All products I use are linked at the end of this post.

1
When should I start? Am I behind?

It’s never too late to start! But from my research, I have learn most experts recommend starting in your mid twenties. So technically, I started late as I am i’m closer to 30 than 25, but I still have noticed a difference in my skin.

2
Slow and Steady Wins the Race

Like with most new things you have to ease into it and retinol is no exception. When I started using retinol, I applied a very small (pea sized amount) twice a week spacing it out evenly. Some experts recommend waiting a whole week before applying again after your first time. I use a vegan, high grade Retinol and felt my skin handled it well so I could apply it again sooner. But give your skin a few days and see how it feels. Some side effects include dryness, redness and flakiness. So the next tip I learned has really help me avoid those.

3
Mixing is Magic

While retinol can give you amazing results, it can also dry out and irritate your skin. So for me I apply my retinol, then brush my teeth/use my mouthwash and for my final step, I apply a hydration serum and a thick moisturizer. This way the retinol has time to soak in while I brush my teeth and I feel like the serum/moisturizer combo gives my skin an extra layer of protection and moisture.

4
The Sun is not your friend

Retinol decreases your skins natural protection from the sun and makes your skin more sensitive to UV rays. So, when applying retinol it’s best to apply at night. While sleeping we are not touching our face so the retinol has the ability to fully sink in. Also, make sure you are using a great SPF while using Retinol. I use an SPF 46 that is great with sensitive skin. Finally, it’s not that you can’t use retinol and go in the sun. You just need to protect your skin and be careful. But if going on a week long tropical or sun filled vaca, it’s probably best to stop using retinol.

5
Good things come to those who wait

No, I did not see results right away. For me to see some real changes it has been about 7 months. I notice I have less acne, my skin feels smoother and looks overall more healthy/glowy. But I did not get here easily. You have to make sure you stick to your routine. There were many nights I got out of bed because I realized I forgot to put my retinol on. But if you stick with it and figure out the right routine for you, hopefully you will see the changes you want!