RETINOL FOR SKIN

Retinol is a type of vitamin A added to skincare products to target various skincare concerns, including ageing skin, blemishes and persistent breakouts, hyperpigmentation and uneven skin texture. It’s found in skincare products like creams, gels and serums, varying in concentration and potency.

Retinol benefits the skin by supporting the skin at a cellular level to address various skin concerns. By promoting skin cell turnover and collagen production, retinol can be used to address ageing skin, breakouts and hyperpigmentation.

• Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles: Retinol products speeds up and supports the skin cell renewal process, revealing fresher skin.
• Improves skin elasticity and suppleness: Comparative clinical studies indicate that retinol serum promotes the skin's collagen production (based on comparative clinical studies, Z. Draelos, R. Peterson, 2020).
• Reduces breakouts: Retinol products help reduce excess sebum production and help clear away dead skin cells that clog pores.
• Reduces hyperpigmentation: By speeding up the skin cell cycle to clear away surface level spots and redness retinol helps with the breakdown of pigment cells that cause hyperpigmentation.

Retinol is suitable for almost all skin types — the key is tailoring how you use it to your specific needs:

Oily Skin: Retinol helps regulate excess sebum production and keeps pores clear, making it a particularly effective addition to an oily skin routine.
Acne-Prone Skin: By accelerating cell turnover and clearing away dead skin cells, retinol helps prevent the congestion that leads to breakouts.
Dry Skin: Opt for a retinol cream or balm formula, which delivers the active ingredient alongside moisturising agents to minimise dryness and flaking.
Sensitive Skin: Start low and go slow — introduce retinol gradually, beginning with a low concentration once or twice a week. The "retinol sandwich" method (applying moisturiser before and after your retinol) can help buffer the skin and significantly reduce irritation.

If you're using retinol for the first time, you may notice side effects such as redness, dry skin and some discomfort, sometimes referred to as retinol burn. These effects can usually be alleviated with the use of hydrating skincare products. Retinol also increases the skin's sensitivity to sun exposure, which is why nighttime application is recommended, in addition to a daily sunscreen. Side effects typically go away within a couple of months as your skin builds tolerance. If discomfort persists, it is recommended to decrease the frequency of use or try a product with a lower retinol concentration. Healthcare professionals also advise against using retinol during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Retinol is widely used in skincare for its anti-ageing benefits, but it can also help to reduce blemishes, excess oil, and hyperpigmentation. It’s available in serum, cream, or gel form. Serums offer a more concentrated formula for deeper penetration and quicker results, while creams and gels often include complementary ingredients.

If you're new to retinol, start with a lower concentration and apply it 1–2 times a week in your evening routine, gradually increasing to daily use. Always follow with a moisturiser to balance out retinol's drying effects, and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day.

You can use retinol with other active ingredients like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide for different benefits.

Retinol and vitamin C

Retinol and vitamin C work in unison to both reduce visible signs of ageing skin and prevent premature ageing. Vitamin C protects from harmful free radicals that damage the skin while also supporting retinol's ability to promote skin cell renewal.

Retinol and hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that helps to restore moisture for more supple, plumper skin. When used in unison with retinol, the two ingredients help visibly reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while supporting a strong skin moisture barrier and a more even skin texture.

Retinol and niacinamide

Retinol and niacinamide work to target anti-ageing skin concerns like wrinkles, skin texture and hyperpigmentation. Niacinamide helps to tighten pores, visibly fade dark spots and soothe the skin, while retinol supports the skin cell turnover for clearer, tighter skin.

Yes, retinol is a vitamin A derivative, like retinoids or retinoic acid.

Retinol and retinoids are both derivatives of vitamin A. The term “retinoid” is usually used to refer to more potent prescription medications, while retinol is a milder, over-the-counter formula.