What is retinol?
It’s one of the most well-renowned skincare ingredients thanks to its powerful benefits, but what is retinol? As a form of vitamin A, retinol penetrates your skin and works to speed up the rate at which your skin cells turnover. This impressive ingredient also boasts the ability to stimulate collagen production. These properties mean retinol is a potent anti-ageing ingredient that’s also great at helping manage acne-prone skin.
When it comes to retinol, the specific formula, composition and concentration has a big influence on the level of skin absorption and therefore skin benefits. That’s why we created our Pro Retinol formula for optimal efficacy.
What are the benefits of retinol?
Retinol can take between a few weeks and a few months to start producing visible skin benefits; however the wide range of possible results are definitely worth the wait. Retinol’s benefits for skin can be divided into two main categories: anti-ageing benefits and benefits for helping manage skin prone to acne blemishes. Let’s explore both sides of this powerful ingredient.
Anti-ageing
- Helps firm the skin by stimulating collagen synthesis
- Visibly minimises the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Helps refine skin texture and even out skin tone
For blemish-prone skin
- Helps regulate excess sebum (skin oil) production, minimising clogged pores
- Helps prevent dead skin cells from clogging pores
How to apply retinol
Learning how to apply retinol correctly is crucial because temporary side effects such and dryness, redness, peeling and discomfort are more likely if you don’t follow the proper usage advice.
In terms of how often to use retinol, we recommend starting by using your retinol serum once or twice a week. You skin will go through a process of adaptation called ‘retinisation’ and moving too fast can result in unwanted symptoms. Keep applying sparingly for two weeks and gradually increase frequency according to your skin’s comfort until you’re applying retinol every second day or even daily.
Retinol causes increased photosensitivity, so you should apply your serum or cream at night and always wear sunscreen during the day. Always apply to dry (never damp) skin for optimal efficacy.
How to use retinol for different skin types
The versatile benefits of retinol mean that almost all skin types can benefit from this ingredient, however each skin type requires a slightly different approach to help achieve the best possible results. Keep reading to learn our expert application advice and special considerations for each skin type.
Retinol for dry skin
Those with dry skin can see positive changes from retinol while ensuring they take steps to minimise the risk of exacerbating existing dryness. We recommend choosing a day cream containing a retinol derivative rather than a serum to maximise hydration. Our Revitalift Classic Day Cream SPF15 has a has a rich cream texture suitable for dry skin. In addition to retinol, this cream is formulated with our Fibrelastyl firming complex to help reinforce skin elasticity for firmer skin and added SPF for further protection against premature ageing.
Retinol for oily skin
Retinol can have powerful benefits for people with oily skin thanks to its ability to help regulate sebum levels. We recommend opting for a lighter serum formula instead of cream, as heavier formulas can be too much for this skin type. Our Laser X3 Pure Retinol Night Serum uses our highest concentration of pure retinol in a light formula well suited to oily skin.
Retinol for combination skin
Combination skin types should also opt for a retinol serum rather than a cream to avoid adding too much heaviness to your skincare routine. Our Revitalift Classic Concentrated Serum is potent with anti-gaeing actives and a retinol derivative. Apply after cleansing and follow up with your regular moisturiser.
Retinol for mature skin
If you have mature skin, that means you’re likely a prime candidate for using retinol for wrinkles and to help re-plump your skin. If signs of ageing are your primary skin concern, all our retinol products are suitable for you. However, we also recommend using a retinol eye cream to target fine lines and wrinkles around this especially vulnerable area. Our Revitalift Classic Eye Cream was developed to hydrate and tone the eye contour while providing powerful wrinkle benefits. Pat gently into the eye area each night.
Retinol for sensitive skin
If you have sensitive skin, you might think retinol isn’t for you. The good news is that’s not true. Gently introduce your skin to retinol by following the frequency outlined earlier and using a hydrating night cream formula. Our Revitalift Laser X3 Retinol + Niacinamide Pressed Night Cream would work well for this. The combination of retinol and niacinamide works to visibly reduce wrinkles and even skin tone, however do avoid using this cream with other retinol-based products and always apply a sunscreen with a minimum of SPF15 the following morning.
Now you know everything you need to get the most out of your retinol cream or serum, why not learn more about how to take care of mature skin? Read our next article Seven Signs of Ageing Skin and How to Address Them.
