Retinol: A Magic Potion

What is retinol?

Retinol, also known as vitamin A1, is a fat-soluble vitamin of the vitamin A family. It is found in food and is used as a dietary supplement.

Retinol and its other forms of vitamin A are required for vision, cellular development, maintenance of skin and mucous membranes, immune function, and reproductive development.

Its dietary sources include dairy products, fish, and meat. 

As a supplement, it is used to treat and prevent vitamin A deficiency, such as in xerophthalmia.

Topical forms of retinol

Retinol is a topical treatment, which means that you apply it on the top of your skin. Retinol comes in many forms, such as:

1. Retinol Creams.
2. Retinol Gels.
3. Retinol containing lotions.
4. Retinol Ointments.
5. Retinol Serums.

What does retinol do to your skin?

Retinol increases the cell production (proliferation) of the skin. It not only helps unclog the pores but also exfoliates your skin and increases collagen production, which can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, giving your skin a fresher, plumper appearance.

As a powerful ingredient in skin-care products, it is used to reduce wrinkles and other effects of skin ageing. 

When should you start using retinol?

For anti-aging, you can start using it in your mid-20’s to early 30’s. If you are using it for mild acne, you can start younger.

How do I use retinol?

 Start slow: Apply a pea-sized amount to your entire face (excluding your eyes and mouth) every other night for the first few weeks till your skin starts to tolerate it.

Moisturize: Retinol can cause dryness and skin purging, so finish with a non-comedogenic moisturizer.

Another method of incorporating retinol into your skin care is using the sandwich method.

Apply a layer of moisturizer.

Apply your retinol product on top of the moisturizer (retinol serum or retinol cream). This will dilute the strength and reduce the potential for irritation.

Allow the retinol to absorb into your skin for 10–20 minutes and  finish by applying another layer of moisturiser

Sun protection: Retinol, being a photosensitive ingredient, makes skin more sensitive to sunlight, so daily SPF 30 to 50 is essential. (Preferably a broad spectrum SPF 50, PA +++ with protection against both UVA and UVB)

Be patient: It can take 12 weeks to see results. If you experience irritation, reduce use or consult a dermatologist.

What are the best combinations for retinol?

Retinol is a magical molecule, but what makes it magical is its high potency.

It is important to combine it with the right ingredients for maximum benefit and minimal side effects.

Best combinations

• RETINOL and HYALURONIC ACID: Hyaluronic acid is a powerful hydrator and is the best companion for retinol.
• HA+MOISTURISER+RETINOL (Night routine)
• Retinol and Vitamin C: This is a match made in heaven. Vitamin C not only protects but also supports collagen production, while retinol helps renew and stimulate collagen production.
• Vitamin C: Morning
• Retinol: Night
• RETINOL and NIACINAMIDE: Niacinamide is a friendly molecule that you can combine with almost all ingredients. It is not only gentle and calming but also has anti-inflammatory properties.

You should avoid combining high strength niacinamide (10% and higher) with retinol. It can make your skin dry and dehydrate it.

Can retinol be combined with AHAs & BHAs (glycolic acid, salicylic acid, etc.)?

It is a common misconception that retinols cannot be combined with AHAs & BHAs but the  truth is, when used in the right strength and formulation for the right skin type, this combination can work wonders for your skin.

Is Retinol for everyone ?

Though retinol is considered the holy grail when it comes to skin care, especially as an anti-aging molecule, it is not suitable for everyone!

Who shouldn’t use retinol?

People with overly sensitive or hypersensitive skin should avoid using retinol for younger looking skin.

If you have very dry, sensitive skin, rosacea, psoriasis, or eczema, then it’s best for you to stay away from retinol.

So what are your options if this miraculous anti-aging ingredient does not suit you?

Hyaluronic acid:

It is a natural component of the skin. It binds to water and helps retain moisture, but with age and environmental pollutants, we start losing our natural hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid, when applied to skin in the form of creams or serums or injected as dermal fillers, absorbs water and makes the skin supple, smoother, and wrinkle-free. 

• Peptides are amino acids that serve as building blocks for new collagen and elastin fibers, too.
• Including peptides in your skincare helps with the formation of collagen and elastin, which add elasticity and firmness to the skin.
• Bakuchiol is an antioxidant that helps in cell regeneration and reduces inflammation of the skin. Though considered the organic alternative to retinol, it’s not as potent as retinol but is a good substitute if retinol doesn’t suit you.
• Glycolic acid: This alpha-hydroxy acid is a multitasker. It helps in the exfoliation of skin, increases cell turnover, and boosts collagen production. It comes in various strengths and formulations and can irritate the skin when not used properly, so it’s best to consult a dermatologist before starting glycolic acid.

Is Retinol pregnancy-safe?

Retinol is absolutely contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation as it causes fatal damage to the foetus and also causes fetal retinoid syndrome (FRS), a condition caused by taking retinoids during pregnancy.

It is very important to know your skin type before introducing anything to your skin, and you should consult a dermatologist before starting with any skin-active products .

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