Retinol, a form of vitamin A, is often recommended for various skin issues like acne and can also help reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Dermatologist Dr. Luigi L. Polla from Geneva highlights that retinol is a top-notch anti-aging ingredient because it boosts collagen production, which visibly reduces fine lines and wrinkles. It also speeds up cellular turnover, refining skin appearance by minimizing pores and removing dead skin cells, which can make skin look dull.
Choosing the right retinol formula can be confusing, but board-certified dermatologist Dr. Kim Nichols assures that it’s safe for all skin types. However, when you first start using retinol, you might experience peeling, dryness, redness, and irritation, as these are part of the exfoliation process. To ease into it, Dr. Nichols suggests applying retinol just once or twice a week during the first month, gradually increasing frequency as your skin adjusts.
Dr. Polla emphasizes the importance of sunscreen when using retinol because it makes the skin more sensitive to sunlight. This is particularly crucial for people with darker skin, as they are more susceptible to hyperpigmentation. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid using retinol.
Here are some recommended retinol creams and serums:
1. A favorite among editors contains retinol and niacinamide, which helps reduce environmental stress and hyperpigmentation while protecting the skin barrier.
2. L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Pressed Night Cream provides the exact dose needed for each application in its airless jar. It’s a sensitive skin-friendly option.
3. Dr. Nichols favors La Roche-Posay’s sensitive skin formula, which combines retinol and vitamin B3 with hyaluronic acid for maintaining skin moisture.
For those new to retinol, Dr. Nichols suggests starting with SkinCeuticals Retinols, which are available in different strengths to build tolerance.
If you have acne-prone skin, choosing the right product is essential. Dr. Polla recommends prescription retinoic acid or OTC Differin, which contains retinoid adapalene to treat and prevent acne.
Fragrance-, parabens-, mineral oil-, dye-, and phthalate-free night creams with hyaluronic acid are best for regular users, not beginners. Olay Regenerist Retinol24 Night Serum promises to reduce pores, dark spots, and fine lines in about four weeks, though improvements might be visible sooner.
As with all retinols, apply them to clean but dry skin to prevent enhanced penetration and possible irritation. Avène RetrinAL Intensive Cream contains retinaldehyde and vitamin E, offering a more potent form of vitamin A. Dr. Nichols recommends using moisturizers with vitamin E or aloe to soothe and hydrate the skin, along with using gentle cleansers and avoiding makeup when irritation occurs.
Womaness, founded by two women focusing on menopause, offers a product free from animal-derived ingredients and other potential irritants. It contains retinol, hyaluronic acid, and ceramide NG to protect the skin’s barrier and maintain moisture.
