What are the benefits and cautions of retinol?

Retinol is a form of vitamin A that has gained popularity in recent years for its ability to improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and even out skin tone. 

What are the benefits of retinol?
Some of the key benefits of retinol include:

1. Reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles: Retinol can help to stimulate collagen production, which can improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
2. Brightening the skin: Retinol can help to improve the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation, giving the skin a brighter and more even tone.
3. Improving skin texture: Retinol can help to smooth out rough patches of skin and improve overall texture, giving the skin a more youthful appearance.
4. Treating acne: Retinol can help to unclog pores and reduce inflammation, making it an effective treatment for acne.
5. Boosting cell turnover: Retinol can help to speed up the skin's natural exfoliation process, which can help to remove dead skin cells and promote the growth of new, healthy skin cells.

What do you need to be cautious of with retinol?
While retinol can be an effective skincare ingredient, it's important to use it with caution:

1. Start Slowly: When introducing retinol into your skincare routine, it's essential to start slowly. Begin by using it once a week and gradually increase the frequency as your skin adjusts. Overuse of retinol can cause redness, flakiness, and irritation.
2. Protect Your Skin: Retinol can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Therefore, it's crucial to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day, even if you're indoors. Wear protective clothing and avoid prolonged sun exposure when possible.
3. Avoid Using With Other Active Ingredients: Retinol should not be used in combination with other active ingredients, such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs). These ingredients can increase skin sensitivity, which can lead to redness and irritation.
4. Use at Night: Retinol should be used at night because it can break down when exposed to sunlight, making it less effective. Apply retinol after cleansing and before moisturizing. Wait at least 20 minutes after applying retinol before applying other skincare products.
5. Avoid During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Retinol should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding because high doses of vitamin A can harm the developing fetus or baby. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your healthcare provider before using retinol.
6. Be Cautious with Sensitive Skin: If you have sensitive skin, it's essential to be cautious when using retinol. Start with a low concentration and use it every other night to avoid irritation. If you experience redness, flakiness, or itching, stop using retinol and talk to your dermatologist.
7. Consult with Your Dermatologist: If you're unsure whether retinol is right for you or have any concerns about its use, consult with your dermatologist. They can help you determine the best way to incorporate retinol into your skincare routine and recommend other products that may be beneficial for your skin.

With proper use, retinol can help you achieve smoother, healthier-looking skin!

Where to buy retinol
This is our favourite retinol product from The Ordinary. It can be bought from The Ordinary or at Sephora. This particular retinol is added to Squalane which is a excellent ingredient for skincare itself. Learn more about the benefits of Squalane here!