Everyone talks about retinol, but how much is it really needed in facial care? Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A and is very useful in the fight against skin aging, pigmentation, fine lines, and acne.
How does it work?
This miraculous substance works at a deep cellular level, where it helps stimulate collagen and elastin production, reduce cellular aging and pore congestion, and regulate sebum production. Retinol can be included in skin care already in the twenties due to the skin’s ability to regenerate at that age.
When using retinol, it is very important to find a rhythm that suits your skin. For some, use 2-3 times a week is suitable, while for others, daily application is suitable.
Skin reactions
It is important to emphasize that you will not see the effect of retinol faster if you immediately take the strongest percentage, as it may cause irritation and redness, so start slowly with the introduction into the routine.
Some skin reacts to retinol with increased acne and peeling, but it is very important to continue using it for 2-3 days so that the skin gets used to it. You can alleviate these reactions by applying the serum using the “sandwich” method, i.e. moisturizing cream-serum-cream.
Use of serum
It is recommended to use the serum only at night with a moisturizing cream, and it is definitely necessary to introduce one with spf protection as a daily face care cream. Depending on the product you use, results are visible after 3-6 months.
If you are starting to introduce retinol into your routine, be careful not to combine it with hydroxy acids, benzoyl peroxide, and agents for treating hyperpigmentation, but it is preferable to combine it with hyaluronic acid to keep the skin moist.
Monitor changes
Preparations with retinol are available on the market without a prescription, but such preparations contain an extremely low concentration of retinol, while much more effective preparations with vitamin A can only be obtained with a prescription, as they belong to the group of medicines. Such cream-medications contain retinoic acid and their therapy is carried out strictly under the control of a dermatologist.
Remember: no single ingredient is universally suitable for everyone, so even in this case it is necessary to monitor changes in the skin and stop using it if you find that retinol does not have a positive effect on your skin. The use of retinol is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
