Retinol
Regarded as one of the most efficacious ingredients, retinol can make a world of difference to many skincare routines. It may be known and celebrated for its ability to smooth fine lines and wrinkles, but a retinol cream and retinol serum can also help tackle breakouts and prevent dead cells from clogging pores. Shop our retinol and vitamin A offerings from Dr Dennis Gross, Sunday Riley, Medik8 and more.
Your Questions, Answered
Retinol is a vitamin A compound that encourages skin’s cell turnover – this is a process our skin does naturally but decreases as we age. Considered an A-list ingredient by many, retinol for skin can be found in all kinds of products and in a variety of strengths. From The Ordinary retinol to Medik8 retinol, Paula’s Choice retinol and more, you’re bound to find the right retinol formula for you right here!
Given that it offers multiple benefits, retinol is unsurprisingly considered an A-list ingredient. Firstly, because of retinol’s ability to stimulate cell production, it can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and deep wrinkles. But plumping and firming benefits aside, a retinol face cream can also help tackle acne, breakouts and congested skin by preventing clogged pores. Additionally, retinol can help reduce the inflammation that comes with breakouts and lighten hyperpigmentation.
Retinol and other vitamin A formulas are generally considered an excellent option for maturing skin types who want to tackle signs of ageing. However, it can also work wonders for those with oily, acne-prone and congested skin because of its exfoliating properties. Age wise, there is no need to start using a retinol face cream before your mid or late twenties – retinol is a powerful ingredient and it should be used with caution!
If you’re new to a retinol face cream, start slowly but steadily. Many retinol formulas are specifically formulated for vitamin A beginners, making your journey into retinol safe and easy. It’s best to start using retinol no more than once and twice a week and in the evening. Once your skin has built a tolerance, you can start using retinol every other night or even daily and in your AM routine – consistency and patience is key!
Retinoid is simply a form of vitamin A, which makes retinol a type of retinoid. The vitamin A family is a strong one when it comes to skincare as, now more than ever, there are more variations – and more powerful strengths than retinol – of vitamin A appearing in different formulas. If you’re a retinol enthusiast and feel ready for the next step in your vitamin A journey, you might want to try adding retinaldehyde into your routine.
