Retinol: a basic guide to get started

You must be used to hearing about retinol and how it is a powerful asset in combating skin aging. But do you know what type of compound it is? How does it act? How should it be used?  We will explain everything to you in this guide and if you still have any questions, just leave your question in the comments.

What is Retinol?

Retinol (vitamin A of animal origin) is a precursor compound to retinoic acid. When retinol penetrates the dermis, it converts into retinoic acid (its active form), acting on the cells' DNA.

How does Retinol work?

Among its main actions are: cell renewal, collagen and elastin production, hydration retention, pore cleaning and antioxidant defense.

This makes retinol a highly desired ingredient in dermocosmetics as it acts effectively to anti-age the skin, as its use:

• Reduces wrinkles
• Smoothes fine lines
• Removes dead cells
• Reduces blemishes
• Regulates sebum
• Increases firmness
• Recovers texture
• Restores luminosity
• Minimizes enlarged pores
• Fight acne

Are there any contraindications/special precautions for using Retinol? 

The use of retinol should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as it can produce a teratogenic effect (capable of harming the embryo/fetus),  generating problems such as poor training. This is because retinoic acid promotes cell renewal through desquamation. In addition, the skin becomes more reactive during pregnancy and irritation can lead to dilated blood vessels. 

If you have sensitive skin, rosacea or retinoid intolerance, you should also be careful when choosing the product, which must contain some associated soothing active ingredient, capable of preventing skin sensitization. Innesfree's Retinol Cica Repair Ampoule is a great example, as it is a highly efficient hypoallergenic multifunctional ampoule, ideal for sensitive skin.

Other than that, anyone can use retinol. Even who  If you are not old enough, you can use it as a preventive measure.

Can I use Retinol every day? 

Some people may experience some redness, a sensation of heat or peeling on the skin during the first few applications. These reactions are normal and temporary, until  “retinize the skin”, which means “accustom” the skin to this powerful ingredient. 

Therefore, it is recommended that you use it progressively, once or twice a week and gradually increase it, depending on how your skin adapts.

How to use Retinol in my routine  skincare?

Retinol is an active ingredient, which usually comes in the form of a treatment (creams/ampoules), and should be used after cleansing and before hydrating your skin, when this is the case. Retinol 0.2% in Squalane from The Ordinary is an ampoule with a water-free solution, which contains 0.2% pure Retinol. 

Some By Mi Retinol Intense Advanced Triple Action Eye Cream is a specific cream treatment for the eye area.

As retinol can “thin” the dermis layer, it is recommended that it be used at night, as during the day you are more exposed to UV rays and it can react with solar radiation, causing damage. Don't forget to use sunscreen and hydrate your skin, to enhance the effects of the treatment and avoid sensitization. 

The interesting thing about retinol is that because it is a compound it can be present in different types of products, that is, it is not restricted to treatments. Which means you can benefit from various stages of your routine.

Mamonde's Retinol Ampoule Toner , for example, is a toner that contains retinol in its composition.

General tips for adding retinol to your routine:

• Do not use if you are pregnant/lactating 
• If your skin is sensitive, choose a product with a soothing additive.
• Start using it little by little (once/twice a week)
• Increase the frequency according to your skin's tolerance
• Apply at night in the treatment stage
• Double the application of sunscreen
• Moisturize your skin well

Now that you know everything about retinol, it's time to choose your products and follow our usage tips. If you still have any questions, just leave them in the comments ;)