Different skin types respond differently to different retinols. Make sure you find the right retinol for your skin.
What is Retinol and Why Is It So Popular?
Dr. Brendan Camp, a double board-certified dermatologist, explains:
“Retinol is known for its anti-aging benefits, improving skin texture, firmness, and reducing fine lines and wrinkles.”
Retinol works by accelerating cell turnover, which helps shed dead skin and reveal fresher, smoother skin underneath. It also stimulates collagen production, helping to plump the skin and reduce signs of ageing over time.
Key Benefits of Retinol:
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
- Evens out skin tone
- Helps unclog pores and prevent breakouts
- Boosts collagen for firmer skin
But here’s the catch: retinol can be intense, especially for first-time users. That’s why choosing the right product and applying it correctly is crucial
Why Is Retinol a Skincare Must-Have?
Dr. Brendan Camp, a double board-certified dermatologist, highlights its versatility saying how “Retinol is known for its anti-aging benefits, improving skin texture, firmness, and reducing fine lines and wrinkles”.
So if your chasing a youthful glow or battling uneven skin tone, retinol works by accelerating cell turnover.
This means it helps shed dead skin cells faster, revealing fresher, smoother skin underneath. It also stimulates collagen production, which helps plump the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines over time.
The catch? It can be a little intense … especially if you’re new to it. But that’s where picking the right product makes all the difference.
How to Use Retinol Without the Burn
Here’s the secret to making retinol work for you, not against you:
- Start slow. Use it 1-2 times a week, then gradually increase as your skin adapts.
- Always moisturise. Hydration helps buffer potential dryness and flaking.
- Never skip SPF. Retinol makes your skin more sensitive to the sun, therefore sunscreen is non-negotiable.
- Listen to your skin. Redness, peeling, or stinging? Scale back.
Choosing Your Perfect Retinol Match
Not all retinols are created equal. The key is finding one suited to your skin type and goals:
For Sensitive Skin
Start gentle. Look for formulas with retinyl palmitate or encapsulated retinol, which release the ingredient slowly to avoid irritation.
Bonus points if the cream contains soothing ingredients like niacinamide, ceramides, or hyaluronic acid.
Try: A hydrating retinol serum or cream with added calming agents.
PRODUCT EXAMPLE: CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum
For Acne-Prone Skin
Retinol is a game-changer for clearing pores and reducing breakouts. Opt for lightweight gels or serums containing retinaldehyde this is a stronger but still gentle form of vitamin A.
Look for non-comedogenic labels to avoid clogged pores.
PRODUCT EXAMPLE: Avène Cleanance Night Blemish Correcting Cream
: Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6
For Mature Skin
If smoothing fine lines and boosting elasticity is the goal, reach for higher-strength formulas (0.5% to 1% retinol) with added antioxidants like vitamin C or peptides to tackle multiple signs of aging at once.
Consider a night cream packed with nourishing ingredients to combat dryness.
PRODUCT EXAMPLE: Paula’s Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment
: RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream
