Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, has become a holy grail in the skincare world. It's lauded for its ability to combat acne, reduce wrinkles, and improve overall skin texture. But before you dive headfirst into the retinol pool, there are some crucial things you should know.

1 | Choose your retinol product wisely.

Retinol is a powerful ingredient that requires a slow introduction. Your skin needs time to adjust to its potency to avoid irritation and dryness. It’s important that you approach retinol with caution and possibly under the guidance of an expert that can help you identify the right product for you.

When I used a retinol serum for the first time, despite I started with the minimum concentration, twice a week, I still experienced dryness, scaling and burning, it was unbearable and I had to stop quiet soon.

My second time around, it was Clare Tylor, my Aesthetic Derm NP at Skin Pharm, who gave me a serum (Night Watch Serum) they have developed specifically for people who have issues tolerating retinol and I could finally start my retinol journey.

I had still had some side effects that I’m going to uncover in the next points, but no more burning sensations that prevented me to use the product.

2 | Buckle for the purge.

After using the Skin Pharm retinol serum for a while I’ve started noticing breakouts all over my face and I panicked. My first reaction would have been to immediately quit retinol, but once again Clare saved me from a big mistake and she educated me on how retinol works.

Breakout after starting retinol is a normal purging process where deeper impurities are brought to the surface, it typically lasts 4-6 weeks and signifies that the retinol is working its magic. And guess what I just had to be patient and resist the urge to pick or scrub my skin and I could finally see the actual benefits of using retinol.

3 | SPF is your BFF.

Retinol increases sun sensitivity, making daily sunscreen application non-negotiable. I have the habit of wearing a broad-spectrum SPF 50 daily and the day following retinol application I try to reapply multiple times a day.

Here you can find some of my favorite sun protection products that I use regularly, including some options that make it easier to reapply it throughout the day, even if you wear makeup.

4 | Be mindful of what you pair retinol with.

Not all ingredients play nicely with retinol. Avoid using harsh exfoliants, AHA/BHAs, and benzoyl peroxide simultaneously as they can exacerbate irritation. Stick to gentle cleansers and hydrating moisturizers to support your skin's barrier function.

5 | Consistency is key.

As with any skincare regimen, consistency is vital for reaping the rewards of retinol. Make it a part of your nightly routine and avoid skipping applications, even when you don't see immediate results. Patience and dedication are key to unlocking the transformative power of retinol.

Bonus tip

Listen to your skin. If you experience persistent irritation, scaling, or discomfort, reduce the frequency of application or consult a dermatologist. They can guide you on adjusting your regimen or recommend alternative solutions.

By understanding these essential points, you can embark on your retinol journey with confidence and achieve the glowing, youthful skin you desire. Remember, slow and steady wins the race!

by Sara Avans — Fashion Content Creator at @saraavans