Written by Victoria Shelton, Skin Expert
Retinol is known as the gold standard in skincare, due to the decades of clinical research behind it. Retinol has been proven to diminish fine lines and wrinkles, smooth texture, refine pores and brighten the complexion. However, it is not an overnight fix. It is a long term investment that requires (and rewards!) patience, consistency and proper use.
What Is Retinol, and How Does It Work?
Retinol is derived from Vitamin A. Once applied, it converts to retinoic acid, an active form that works with the skin cells to increase cell turnover, stimulate collagen production and regulate melanin production. Over time, you can expect smoother, firmer and more even skin. Most people are tempted to overload their skin with this ingredient expecting faster results, but that is not how retinol works. In fact, doing so can cause irritation and sensitivity. Improvements can be expected after several weeks, with the best results becoming noticeable after a few months.
How to Ease Into Retinol Use
Retinol is a powerful ingredient, but too much too soon can be irritating to the skin. Overdoing retinol is called a retinoic reaction, and often presents itself as redness, dryness and flaky skin. To prevent this, it is recommended to start low and slow. Introduce retinol to a clean, dry face, only 2-3 nights a week, and be sure to follow with a nourishing cream to protect the skin barrier. It is also imperative to apply an SPF daily as retinol can increase your sensitivity to the sun.
As your skin acclimates, you can use more frequently or graduate to stronger formulas.
How Long Does It Take?
Retinol works by accelerating the skin’s natural turnover rate. This process depends on the individual. Some individuals with acneic skin have a higher than average turnover rate, which is why they benefit from more exfoliation, and older individuals tend to have a slower rate, which is why some treatments take them longer to see results. Because of this, the timeframe to see results can vary by individual. If your main concern is wrinkles, those with fine lines, can expect faster results than someone with deeper, static wrinkles. Same goes for those looking to correct pigmentation. Dark spots caused by one sunny beach day will fade faster than dark spots caused by years of sun exposure or tanning booths. However, after about 8-12 weeks, most people note significant skin improvements. Best anti-aging results can take 3-6 months of consistent use. However, don’t let the timeframe discourage you from retinol- the results are well worth the wait.
Factors that can impact results:
- Depth of wrinkles
- Frequency of sun exposure
- Consistency of application
- Retinol strength (strength can be increased over time)
Our Favorite Retinol Formulations
These products are designed to provide the collagen boosting, refining effects retinol is known for, all while prioritizing skin health and resiliency.
Alastin Renewal Retinol 0.25
A gentle retinol designed to improve skin texture and tone all while maintaining a healthy skin barrier. Created with the brand’s TriHex Technology®, it encourages cell turnover without irritation, making it especially effective for those with sensitive skin.
Environ Tri-Retinoid Complex Retinol Serum
With three forms of vitamin A, this serum targets fine lines, texture and firmness. Added antioxidants and barrier boosting ingredients promote radiance and skin longevity.
Augustinus Bader The Retinol Serum
Ideal for sensitive skin that needs extra hydration, this serum includes potent botanicals and Bader’s signature TFC8® technology to boost the plumping and refining benefits.
Alastin Renewal Retinol 0.25
A gentle retinol designed to improve skin texture and tone all while maintaining a healthy skin barrier. Created with the brand’s TriHex Technology®, it encourages cell turnover without irritation, making it especially effective for those with sensitive skin.
Environ Tri-Retinoid Complex Retinol Serum
With three forms of vitamin A, this serum targets fine lines, texture and firmness. Added antioxidants and barrier boosting ingredients promote radiance and skin longevity.
Augustinus Bader The Retinol Serum
Ideal for sensitive skin that needs extra hydration, this serum includes potent botanicals and Bader’s signature TFC8® technology to boost the plumping and refining benefits.
111Skin Black Diamond Retinol Oil
A luxurious oil that combines encapsulated retinol to soften signs of aging and improve skin radiance, all while delivering comfort and hydration to dry skin types.
iS Clinical Retinol+ Emulsion 0.3
A time-released retinol emulsion that helps to improve fine lines, blemishes, and skin tone while reducing the likelihood of irritation through controlled delivery.
Forlle’d RetiMoist Essence
A lightweight, hydrating retinol essence that supports skin renewal while maintaining moisture levels. Ideal for those seeking the benefits of retinol in a super lightweight formula.
111Skin Black Diamond Retinol Oil
A luxurious oil that combines encapsulated retinol to soften signs of aging and improve skin radiance, all while delivering comfort and hydration to dry skin types.
iS Clinical Retinol+ Emulsion 0.3
A time-released retinol emulsion that helps to improve fine lines, blemishes, and skin tone while reducing the likelihood of irritation through controlled delivery.
Forlle’d RetiMoist Essence
A lightweight, hydrating retinol essence that supports skin renewal while maintaining moisture levels. Ideal for those seeking the benefits of retinol in a super lightweight formula.
If You Are Pregnant, Sensitive, or Have Found That Retinol Isn’t for You, These Are Great Alternatives
Retinol is not for everyone. Some sensitive skin types, such as those with rosacea, can find retinol too aggressive, and retinol is not recommended for those who are pregnant or nursing. Luckily, there are several retinol free products available that firm, smooth and illuminate the complexion with gentler ingredients.
Valmont V-Lift Cream
Intensely hydrating and powered by bakuchiol, a plant-derived retinol alternative, this rich cream helps improve firmness and the appearance of wrinkles without the irritation associated with vitamin A.
Danucera Iconic Eye
This multi-tasking eye treatment is formulated with bakuchiol to soften fine lines, reduce crepiness, and brighten the under eye area. Designed to deliver visible results while remaining gentle enough for the delicate eye contour.
Biologique Recherche Serum VG Tensil
A targeted firming serum that helps improve skin tone and the appearance of wrinkles without retinol. Known for its tightening and smoothing effect, it’s a favorite for those seeking visible anti-aging results with minimal sensitivity.
Valmont V-Lift Cream
Intensely hydrating and powered by bakuchiol, a plant-derived retinol alternative, this rich cream helps improve firmness and the appearance of wrinkles without the irritation associated with vitamin A.
Danucera Iconic Eye
This multi-tasking eye treatment is formulated with bakuchiol to soften fine lines, reduce crepiness, and brighten the under eye area. Designed to deliver visible results while remaining gentle enough for the delicate eye contour.
Biologique Recherche Serum VG Tensil
A targeted firming serum that helps improve skin tone and the appearance of wrinkles without retinol. Known for its tightening and smoothing effect, it’s a favorite for those seeking visible anti-aging results with minimal sensitivity.
Retinol is a wonderful ingredient to incorporate into your routine, but it is not the only path to beautiful skin. Whether you decide to begin your retinol journey, or try an alternative, we are here to help you with your skincare journey!