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Retinol
A form of vitamin A, retinol may benefit acne-prone or sun-damaged skin. However, it’s most commonly known as a powerhouse anti-aging skincare ingredient for its ability to prevent and reduce fine lines and even deep wrinkles with continued use. Technically, it’s a type of retinoid, of which there are several variations that work at different levels.
What Are the Skincare Benefits of Retinol?
“Retinol binds to receptors in skin cells and tells them to increase cell turnover and rev up collagen production,” says Dr. Joshua Zeichner, Skincare.com consultant and Director of Cosmetic & Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in NYC. This process is known as retinizing the skin. Benefits include preventing dullness, promoting plumper, firmer skin, minimizing the appearance of pores and improving the signs of aging.
How to Incorporate Retinol Into Your Skincare Routine
Retinol can be found in varying quantities in serums, face cream, eye cream and spot treatments. Many of these treatments are found over-the-counter, with those with higher doses of the active ingredient — meaning its uses have been scientifically proven — usually prescribed in gel or cream form.
Because of its potency, irritation and overall skin sensitivity is common, especially when first incorporated into one’s skincare routine, but there are precautions one can take. “To minimize irritation, use just a small amount and start applying it every other night,” says Dr. Zeichner.
Dr. Zeichner also advises using SPF every morning after applying your retinol the night before. “While retinol thickens the deeper skin levels, it thins the outer layer. This explains the retinol glow patients experience but also increases your risk for a sunburn,” he says.
Our Favorite Skincare Products With Retinol
SkinCeuticals Retinol Cream 0.3
If you’re a retinol beginner, start off with a small concentration of the powerhouse ingredient, as found in this retinol cream from SkinCeuticals. This facial cream targets visible signs of aging, as well as acne and pores.
skinbetter science AlphaRet Overnight Cream
This overnight cream from skinbetter science is formulated with a retinoid combined with an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) to provide anti-aging skincare benefits without irritating the skin. In addition to minimizing the appearance of wrinkles, it moisturizes to counteract potentially drying effects typically associated with retinoids.
L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensifies Night Serum With Pure Retinol
Prefer a serum to a cream? The L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensifies Night Serum With Pure Retinol is an anti-aging serum enriched with soothing ingredients such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid. It promotes a luminous, youthful-looking complexion — and it’s available at an affordable drugstore price.
CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum
Another drugstore retinol serum we love is the CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum. If you are in pursuit of smoother, more even skin, this is the serum for you. It gently resurfaces to reveal brighter, more refined skin.
