Are you scared of using retinol, or are unsure on how and when to use it? There is a lot of hype around this ingredient (and for good reason), the benefits are HUGE when used for the right reasons and correctly. Retinol can:

• Treat acne
• Clear pores
• Increase cellular turnover
• Increase collagen and promote elasticity in the skin
• Decrease hyperpigmentation
• Brighten the skin
• Diminish and prevent fine lines and wrinkles
• Refine skin texture and tone

Trying it for the first time or re-introducing it into your skin routine? Here are my top tips to get you started: 

1. Take it slow

When using retinol, some people make the mistake of going in too quickly. Regrettably, it can cause skin irritation such as redness and flakiness. To begin, use it three times per week; eventually, once your skin has developed the ability to tolerate the retinol, you can use it every night. If you do experience retinol irritation, that's okay; it's not necessarily harmful to your skin. What's important is that you keep your skin moisturised and protected so that it can heal and regenerate.

2. Apply to fresh clean skin

It goes without saying that applying retinol to clean skin is a no-brainer, but by doing so, you are allowing your retinol to do its thing with nothing in the way.

3. A little goes a long way

The strong nature of the product means you do not need to use much at all. Even though this may feel unnatural to some who loves to lather on their night cream before bed, only a pea-sized amount of your retinoid cream should be used and is more than sufficient.

4. Supporting ingredients

It is important to understand what to pair with your retinol for maximum skin benefits, as well as better healing and stronger skin. Niacinamide is an excellent ingredient to combine with retinol because it strengthens the skin barrier and acts as a wound healer, preventing many skin irritations. Moisturisers are essential for sealing in moisture and preventing dehydration so that your retinol can work a punch. SPF is always a non-negotiable; all I have to say is "protect thy skin."

Unsure if retinol is right for you or which products to start on? Book a free virtual consult with one of our Dermal Therapists here.