Retinol is a Vitamin A derivative that is popular for its anti-aging properties. In this blog, we will delve into understanding all the benefits of retinol face serum and everything else you need to know before adding it into your skincare routine.
Retinol serum benefits
Retinol serum offers multiple benefits such as:
Anti-aging benefits: Retinol serum boosts collagen production which leads to a firmer skin and visibly reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also helps to increase skin elasticity leading to firmer skin.
Anti-acne treatment: Retinol regulates sebum production which helps to clear clogged pores and hence reduce formation of acne.
Reduction of hyperpigmentation and dark spots: Regular usage of retinol face serum helps fade dark spots, acne marks, sun spots, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.
Improvement of skin texture: Retinol sheds dead skin at the cellular level leading to a smoother and evenly textured skin.
Brighter complexion: Regularly using retinol serum can lead to a brighter complexion.
How to choose the right retinol serum?
Concentration: If you are a beginner look for a retinol serum with lower concentration (0.2% to 0.5%) to avoid irritation.
Packaging: Retinol is sensitive to light and air so look for an opaque airtight packaging to ensure your retinol serum is stable and potent.
Added ingredients: Retinol serum can be drying so look for additional hydrating ingredients in serum like peptides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin.
Incorporating retinol serum in skincare routine
Retinol serum can be effectively incorporated into skincare routine by considering following factors:
Frequency: Apply retinol serum 1-2 times a week in the beginning and gradually increase the usage to every day. If you have sensitive skin then be extra careful in the first few weeks.
Amount: It might sound like a good idea to use the product more than recommended to get quick results but unfortunately it's not how skincare products work. Apply 2-3 drops of serum only to avoid irritation.
Time of application: While retinol serum can still be used in morning routine, it’s recommended to use it at night because retinol can make your skin sensitive to sun.
Follow the proper routine: Follow necessary steps before and after applying retinol serum for optimal results such as
Step 1: Cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser to remove any impurities off your skin and pat it dry afterward.
Step 2: Apply 2-3 drops of retinol serum to dry skin and avoid applying it near the eye area as it can be sensitive.
Step 3: Apply moisturizer after applying retinol serum to avoid potential irritation. If you have sensitive skin please apply moisturizer before as well as after applying retinol serum.
Step 4: Use a broad spectrum sunscreen. Retinol is to be used at night. But sunscreen should be applied in the morning routine especially if using retinol as exposure to the UV rays will break retinol molecules and will not give the desired results.
Be cautious of layering actives: Make sure you are not layering products like Vitamin C serum after applying retinol serum as it can cause irritation. Use them on alternate days or Use Vitamin C serum in morning and retinol serum at night.
FAQs
1. Can I use retinol with peptides?
Yes, you can use retinol and peptide serum. Peptides boosts collagen production and also helps with skin repair making it a good choice for combining with retinol.
2. Will retinol serum cause purging?
Retinol serum causes purging in the first few weeks of use as the skin needs time to adjust to retinol but it will go away later.
