Any skincare product shelf at a store would be incomplete without a retinol cream or serum. From advertisements to beauty magazines to dermatologists, the recommendation for this ingredient follows everywhere you go. Especially, if you're on the lookout for a product that counters the effects of hyperpigmentation and ageing. This derivative of vitamin A boosts the production of collagen (a protein responsible for providing structure and strength to the skin) to improve skin elasticity and moisture. You can use it to treat hyperpigmentation, acne, fine lines, and wrinkles.
As retinol is a scientifically backed ingredient, you must consult a dermatologist before using it. However, there are some general ways to make the most of a product with this ingredient. Keep reading to learn more about the nature of retinol, its benefits, the best time to use it, and the most efficient way to incorporate it into your skincare routine.
What are retinoids and retinol?
Retinoids are the general derivatives of vitamin A. Their main purpose is to increase the rate of cell production in the skin. This derivative increases the production rate of collagen in the deep layers to give you freedom from fine lines and wrinkles. Also, it brings out the natural glow of your skin to give it a radiant and youthful glow. This ingredient is only available through prescription as it is stronger in concentration.
On the contrary, retinol is safe to use for everyone. It comes in weaker concentrations to provide the same benefits without side effects like skin irritation. Your body naturally produces this derivative of vitamin A. But, after a certain age (30s), its level of production in the body goes down. This leads to visible signs of ageing and skin problems like hyperpigmentation. With the topical (on the surface) application of retinol, you can replenish the supply of this ingredient in your body.
Is retinol safe for all skin types?
Generally, retinol is safe to be used by people of all skin types. However, people with fair and sensitive skin types are advised to consult their dermatologist before using this ingredient as it could negatively impact their skin depending on other conditions. Also, if you have already treated your skin with exfoliation treatments at a dermatologist's office or at home, your skin might be sensitive to retinol. Pregnant women must also avoid using a retinol cream or other products with this ingredient. Thus, it's always advised to visit a doctor to confirm the safety of this ingredient on your skin.
Benefits of retinol
The common benefits of retinol-based products like DermDoc 0.1% retinol face serum are reducing visible signs of ageing like fine lines and wrinkles. But, that's not it.
Listed below are the additional benefits of retinol for people of all skin types.
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Skin brightening: Retinol not only produces collagen in your skin, but it also slows down the process of collagen breakdown, thereby making your skin naturally appear brighter. Regardless of the factors responsible for skin dullness (pollution, stress, lifestyle changes, or pregnancy), it decreases the production of melanin. Melanin is a naturally occurring pigment in skin that causes dark skin.
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Exfoliation: Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells, dirt, and dust. This trio of the three 'D's is responsible for stealing the brightness of your face by accumulating on the top layer of the skin. Retinol gently removes this layer to give you soft and clear skin that's ready for the next steps of your skincare routine.
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Reducing acne scars: Whether it's acne scars or hyperpigmentation marks, retinol helps in combating them. It reduces the frequency of skin breakouts and helps in reducing the visibility of acne scars. As it naturally increases the cell turnover of your skin, scars start disappearing after weeks of regular use.
What can go wrong while using retinol-based products?
While retinol is generally a safe ingredient, it could cause some reactions in some people such as skin irritation, dryness, itching, or redness. This usually happens when you use the product too often or too much. It can also happen if you use retinol-based products along with other harsh treatments for acne or skin brightening. As retinol-based products can increase the sun sensitivity of your skin, you must use them at night. Also, sun exposure can deactivate retinol, thereby keeping you away from getting its benefits. Thus, even when you apply this product at night, you must use sunscreen during the day to shield your skin from side effects.
If you wish to make the most of this ingredient without triggering any unwanted reaction, read the following sections to know the correct order of incorporating it into your skincare routine.
How to incorporate retinol into your skincare routine?
The use of retinol in skincare is highly beneficial. However, you can extract its benefits only if it is applied in the correct order. The most efficient skincare routine with retinol is listed in the following subsection.
The correct order of product application is given below:
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Cleansing: Start by cleansing your face with a mild cleanser. Remove all your makeup with a makeup-removing solution if required.
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Retinol product: Apply a retinol serum or cream like the DermDoc 1% Retinol Cream in small quantities all over your face 30 minutes after washing your face.
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Moisturizer: This step is optional. People who experience skin irritation after applying the product must follow it. You must wait for the retinol-based product to dry completely before applying a moisturizer. Select a good quality moisturizer like DermDoc pH Rebalance face cream and apply it generously over your face.
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Sunscreen: On the following day, you must wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30 like the DermDoc Sun Protection Gel Cream with SPF 30. Protection from the UV rays of the sun is essential to save your skin from premature ageing and the potential side effects of using retinol. This product also offers the benefit of no white cast and a non-greasy texture. Do not forget to reapply sunscreen every
2–3 hours.
How often should you apply retinol serum?
If you're using a retinol-based product for the first time, start by applying a pea-sized amount on your face. If your skin reacts by causing itching, redness, or any other problem, use it with a high-quality moisturizer such as DermDoc vitamin E day cream. Generally, you must apply retinol every other night on your face. However, it is good to consult your dermatologist to get the best opinion.
Conclusion
Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A that brightens your skin, reduces the visibility of acne scars, and gently exfoliates the skin. Generally, a retinol-based product is good for all skin types. However, to get the most out of the product, you must remember to apply it during the night followed by sunscreen during the day. Your choice of retinol cream or serum also affects the efficiency of treatment.
Products like the DermDoc Retinol Serum and DermDoc Retinol Cream are made by professionals in the safest concentration to protect you from side effects. These products increase the elasticity of your skin, reduce the signs of ageing, and give you a youthful glow.
Curious to know more? Head on to DermDoc's official website to explore highly informational blogs regarding skincare.