Ingredient spotlight - Retinol: Should you start using it?

Arguably one of the most lauded ingredients on the internet for anti-ageing right now, retinol is gaining all the spotlight. But what is the hype around this ingredient? Is it truly the most effective solution to fine lines and wrinkles? Especially for those new to introducing active ingredients in their skincare routine, there are a few considerations to be made for it. Let’s dive a little deeper into it. 

What is Retinol?

Derivative of Vitamin A, Retinol is a potent ingredient used to increase cell turnover, enhance collagen production and improve skin tone and texture. As a result, it reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, removes dead skin cells, improves acne and irritation, as well as enhances the skin’s elasticity. 

Considerations before starting retinol 

The first introduction of retinol into your skincare routine should always be in small concentrations and applied every few nights to let your skin adjust as frequent application of retinol in high percentages can be very irritating. Moreover, one should avoid exfoliating the same day retinol is applied as this may heighten the skin’s sensitivity, making the skin more prone to irritation. Follow up with sunscreen in the morning to protect your skin and prevent further sensitivity. 

While retinol boasts numerous benefits, they can also have some nasty side effects for certain skin types. When first incorporating the active into your routine, your skin may experience some irritation, dryness, and sun sensitivity. It also may not be recommended for those with eczema, rosacea or sensitive skin as experiencing flaking, redness, or burning sensations are common amongst them. In these cases, it is best to shy away from retinol-infused products. 

Alternatives to Retinol 

If you find that your skin cannot tolerate retinol, fret not, there are other gentler alternatives for sensitive skin. Try integrating Bakuchiol, a plant-based alternative to retinol that gives similar benefits, suitable for pregnant and nursing mommies too. Alternatively, peptides are an excellent ingredient to integrate into your routine to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. We recommend our Youth Beam Anti-Ageing Night Serum infused with more than 7 kinds of peptides, followed by our Dream Capsule Sleeping Mask, infused with Bakuchiol to achieve plumper, more lifted skin overtime without the harsh side effects retinol gives.