No doubt you’ve heard of Retinol, but do you know what it does or how to use it? .

WHAT IS RETINOL?

Retinol is a form of Vitamin A, known for its anti-aging benefits. It accelerates cell turnover, improves skin texture, and diminishes wrinkles and hyperpigmentation.

Speeding up cell turnover means, letting go of old skin cells that are no longer needed. As we get older cell turnover slows down, leading is to dullness, dryness, breakouts and overall lack of radiance.

By removing these redundant skin cells and increasing new cell turnover, skim becomes clearer, pigmentation fades, fine lines are reduced and over skin radiance is renewed!

DO I NEED RETINOL?

If you're worried about signs of aging then Retinol is a must have for your skincare routine. Not to mention the added benefits of helping with breakouts/acne and Hyperpigmentation.

However, If you have rosacea, psoriasis, or are eczema prone, then retinols are not ideal for you!

WHAT AGE DO I NEED TO START USING RETINOL?

It is recommended to start using Retinol in your mid- 20s to early 30s, as this is when early signs of aging, such as fine lines may start appear.

If you're already in your late 30s and beyond, fear not. You will still benefit greatly and see a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles.

DO I NEED TO USE RETINOL EVERY DAY?

It is possible to use Retinol daily, BUT it is important to build up to this gradually. As will all new ingredients introduced to the skin, irritation is a possibility. Therefore start using your retinol 1-2 times per week, with a minimum window of 72 hours between applications.

If your skin is reacting well then this can be increased to 3-4 times per week and after 12 weeks, use daily.

IS IT BETTER TO USE RETINOL AT NIGHT?

YES! Only use your Retinol at night.

CAN I USE VITAMIN C WITH MY RETINOL?

Yes! These two ingredients work wonderfully when used together.

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that defends the skin from things like UV rays and pollution, both of which can trigger pigmentation and break down the skins collagen and elastin. Retinol works to minimize the appearance of dark marks, so when used PM with Vitamin C these two go hand in hand!

Looking a powerful Vitamin C serum; HydroPeptide Firma-Bright - 20% Vitamin C

WHAT ELSE CAN I USE ALONGSIDE MY RETINOL?

You can use Hyaluronic Acid alongside your Retinol. As you likely know Hyaluronic Acid is forever being praised as a moisturising skincare must have and the better hydrated your skin is the better other active ingredients like Retinol will work!

If you're suffering with angry breakouts or just want a brighter, clearer complexion then why not use Niacinamide alongside your Retinol. When used together they reduce oil and old skin cells, which in turn reduces spots and breakouts. Niacinamide also helps to brighten and improve skin tone. Layer these ingredients back to back before bed!

HOW CAN I TELL IF MY RETINOL IS WORKING?

Within the first few weeks of using Retinol, you may notice your skin feels smoother. This is due to the Retinol increasing cell turnover and shedding dead skin.
After using Retinol for a few months, fine lines and wrinkles should start to reduce.
As the Retinol stimulates collagen production, plumping the skin to improve signs of aging.
Your skin tone will begin to even as Retinol helps to fade hyperpigmentation, dark spots and sun damage. This can be visible within a few weeks to months of use.
If you suffer with acne or breakouts, you’ll notice a reduction as Retinol helps to unclog your pores and prevent spots.
It's very common to experience some skin changes when you start using Retinol, such as redness and dryness when you first start using Retinol. This is often referred as the “Retinol uglies”, although inconvenient and uncomfortable to start with, it is a good indication that your skin is adjusting and cell turnover is accelerated.