What is retinol? The skin GP’s take on this anti-ageing miracle
Retinol is pitched as the bottled answer to healthy, glowing and youthful skin. But how exactly does Retinol improve collagen, fine lines, tighten skin and provide a more youthful glow?
If you’re new to the world of retinol and vitamin A, this guide explains everything you need to know to figure out if retinol is worthy of your skincare routine.
What is retinol?
Retinol is a form of vitamin A that’s described as one of the most effective anti-ageing ingredients out there. It’s part of the retinoid family, that when used regularly can lead to smoother, plumper and younger-looking skin.
How does retinol work?
Retinol works upon application to the skin, where it breaks down and transforms into retinoic acid. This compound then gets to work with:
Enhancing the production of collagen;
Speeding up skin cell regeneration; and
Slowing down the process that makes pigment in the skin.
Few skincare products work on so many levels, which is why retinol has earned its reputation as the wonder vitamin.
What are the benefits of retinol?
Dermatologists often describe retinol as the “gold standard” anti-ageing ingredient because it significantly improves the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, scarring, pores and uneven complexion.
However, it also acts as a preventive measure, improving the skin’s barrier function, unclogging pores and refreshing skin.
From my personal use, I’ve experienced smoother and healthier skin that is far less irritated than before.
When combined with treatments such as Botox, Profhilo, or dermal fillers, retinol compliments these perfectly to help keep your skin looking its best from the very surface layer.
What are the side effects of using retinol?
Most users will experience mild, short-lived side effects when first using retinol. These include redness, peeling, and dryness, but they should subside once your skin becomes more tolerant. I experienced three days of redness and mild peeling.
Anyone experiencing these side effects for longer than a few days must reduce the strength of retinol used and the frequency of application. If you experience stronger irritations, stop using the product immediately and seek professional advice.
It’s also important to note that retinol increases sun sensitivity, so it’s imperative to wear a high-factor sunscreen during the day, which has its own preventative benefits.
I will explain this at length during my consultations with you at my aesthetics clinic in Tarporley and Hale.
Who can use retinol?
The skin’s natural production of collagen declines in your 30s, making this the perfect time to introduce retinol into your skincare routine. However, the powerful anti-ageing and preventative benefits of retinol mean that it’s never too early or late to start.
Retinol works on all different skin types, but, if you suffer from rosacea, eczema or psoriasis, seek professional advice first.
You should not use retinol when pregnant or breastfeeding.
When will you see results from retinol?
As with any new skincare product, visible results can take a little time to appear as retinol gets to work on your skin.
Most users notice brighter skin at 4-6 weeks, clearer skin at 12 weeks, and reduced lines and pigmentation after 6 months. However, everyone’s skin is different, and not all of retinol’s benefits are visible.
What strength retinol should you use?
Retinol comes in different strengths, with over-the-counter products being far weaker than prescribed retinol. However, that doesn’t mean you can jump in at the deep end.
If you’re new to retinol, start with a low-strength cream or moisturiser. As your skin becomes more tolerant, you can progress to a medium-strength serum and then a high-strength treatment.
How should you introduce retinol into your skincare routine?
You should use retinol at night because sunlight diminishes its effectiveness.
Start by using it every other night after cleansing, toning and exfoliating. Follow up with your usual serum and night cream. Once your skin becomes used to retinol, you can increase to nightly use.
Note, that while retinol is safe to use under your eyes, avoid use on your eyelids.
What are the best retinol products to use?
The best retinol products to use depend on your skincare goals.
Over-the-counter retinol products are readily available, but if you’re looking for retinol with more active properties, professionally prescribed products are best.
For example, I use ZO Skin Health’s Wrinkle Texture Repair, which is medium strength retinol (0.5%) in a micro-emulsion. This means it penetrates down to the dermis for more effective results. It also contains:
ZPRO, which is an exclusive blend of bioengineered plant stem cells that provide potent antioxidant effects and inflammation control;
Sericin, which regulates hyaluronic acid and collagen production; and
Beta-glucan, which offers DNA protection.
For this reason, it’s only available following a medical consultation from a trained clinician.
Find out more about ZO Skin Health products.
Where can I learn more about retinol?
If you want to learn more about retinol and the best strength, application and products for your skincare routine, get in touch for a bespoke skincare consultation at my aesthetics clinic in Hale and Tarporley, where I also offer Botox, dermal fillers and PRP, and start feeling better about your skin.
Dr Adam Cheong
Skinphinity Medical Director
Get in touch
About Skinphinity
Skinphinity is a cosmetic practice in Tarporley, run by the cosmetic GP, Dr Adam Cheong. Dr Adam is a qualified GP and specialist in non-surgical facial aesthetics. He is passionate about natural-looking enhancements and works hard to give the industry a good name, built on ethical, qualified and honest practices.
Skinphinity provides a range of non-surgical aesthetic treatments for patients in Tarporley, Chester, Northwich, Hartford, Hale, Manchester and across Cheshire.
