RETINOL AND PIMPLES: BENEFITS AND HOW TO USE
Retinol discussions tend to focus on the anti-ageing properties of this vitamin A derivative, but topical retinoids are actually equally as beneficial for blemish-prone skin as they are for visibly reducing fine lines and wrinkles. Retinol boosts cell turnover which means it helps clear the pores.
So, how do you take advantage of retinol for your breakouts? In this article, we'll discuss using retinol for pimples, how it helps, and how to incorporate it into your acne-prone skincare routine.
WHAT IS RETINOL IN SKINCARE?
Retinol and topical retinoids are vitamin A derivatives found in skincare products such as serums and creams. This active ingredient works to target a number of skin concerns by supporting the natural skin cell renewal cycle and promoting collagen production. While it's popular with those wanting to address ageing skin concerns, retinol has also shown to benefit blemish-prone skin by minimising pore size, regulating sebum production and reducing the redness and irritation that comes with breakouts.
HOW DOES RETINOL BENEFIT ACNE-PRONE SKIN?
Retinol products can be quite helpful for minimising pimples and reducing the risk of future breakouts. Here's how it works:
CLEARS OUT PORES
Retinol boosts cell turnover, meaning it helps your skin shed dead skin cells more effectively. This prevents the dead skin cells from clogging your pores and creating a breeding ground for blemish causing impurities.
REDUCES IRRITATION AND REDNESS
Pimples are often red and irritated. Retinol products have soothing properties that can calm down and lessen redness caused by pimples.
MANAGES OIL PRODUCTION
Excess oil (sebum) production plays a major role in breakouts. Oily skin is more prone to clogged pores, which can trigger blemishes. Retinol helps to control excess sebum production, leading to fewer breakouts.
FADES POST-ACNE SCARS
Oftentimes a pimple will be followed by a dark mark or red spot. This is due to the skin irritation caused by the pimple. Post-blemish marks can fade over time, but sometimes they'll stubbornly remain. Retinol's power to promote collagen and skin cell turnover helps to fade these marks, giving you a more even skin tone.
HOW TO USE RETINOL FOR PIMPLES
Retinol can be a great tool for fighting pimples, but there are some important things to keep in mind to use it safely and effectively:
GRADUALLY INTRODUCE RETINOL
Retinol can cause skin irritation, which is why it's critical that you gradually introduce the product into your routine. Always begin with a low concentration and use only once or twice a week. Depending on your skin type you can gradually increase the frequency and concentration as your skin tolerates it.
APPLY RETINOL AT NIGHT
Retinol can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, which is why it's always recommended that you apply it at night. This helps to support the skin cell turnover process that occurs overnight. If you do increase frequency of use to twice daily, always ensure you apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen at the end of your skincare routine.
HYDRATION IS KEY
Retinol serums can dry the skin out, so moisturise well! Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser both morning and night. You may need to add extra hydration to your skincare routine to counterbalance your retinol serum.
USE THE SANDWICH METHOD
If you have overly sensitive or dry skin, balance out the skin drying effects by sandwiching your retinol serums in between moisturisers.
BE PATIENT
Retinol works by promoting the skin cell turnover process and removing dead skin cells to reveal smoother, fresher skin. Blemishes, spots, and post-blemish marks will visibly fade as new skin cells reach the epidermis, but this can take time. It can take several weeks or even months to see significant results from retinol, so don't give up if you aren't noticing visible improvements right away!
LISTEN TO YOUR SKIN
The best way to determine how you use retinol products is by listening to your skin. If you experience excessive dryness, redness, peeling, or irritation, reduce the frequency of use or stop using retinol altogether and consult with a dermatologist.
AVOID PAIRING CERTAIN INGREDIENTS
Some ingredients formulated for blemish-prone skin shouldn't be used in unison with retinol. Be cautious when using retinol with other acne treatments, like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, as it could cause skin irritation.
RETINOL AND SENSITIVE SKIN
Because of its skin-drying effects, retinol can cause irritation to very sensitive skin, which is why it's generally recommended to be very careful with retinol products. You may only need to use a retinol serum once or twice a week if you have sensitive skin. Also ensure you balance out the effects of retinol with a hydrating serum and nourishing moisturiser. Try the Toleriane Ultra Dermallergo Hydrating Serum, a hydrating product formulated for very sensitive and irritation-prone skin.
WHAT ARE THE BEST INGREDIENTS TO PAIR WITH RETINOL?
HYALURONIC ACID
You can rehydrate the skin after retinol with a potent hyaluronic acid serum. The Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Acid Serum helps to balance out the drying effects of retinol to keep the skin moisture barrier intact.
VITAMIN C
Vitamin C and retinol work in harmony to achieve brighter, more even skin-tone. But make sure to use the two ingredients at opposing times of the day. Vitamin C is best suited to the morning, as it helps to protect the skin against environmental aggressors, while retinol works best when applied at night. Try out the Vitamin C 10 Brightening Serum.
RECOMMENDED RETINOL SERUM FOR BREAKOUTS
For managing breakouts as well as the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, we recommend La Roche-Posay's Retinol B3 Anti-Ageing Serum. This retinol serum is formulated with niacinamide to soothe the skin, and is suitable for sensitive skin types.
Remember, everyone's skin is different. What works for one person may not work for another. It's always best to consult with a dermatologist before starting any new skincare regimen, especially one that includes retinol.
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