How To Use Retinol

AGELESS+ Retinol Trial Kit official Image Skincare stockist

Retinol has been considered the gold standard of anti-aging skincare ingredients for so many years. Most dermatologists, estheticians, and beauty experts will agree. It has the ability to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and help stimulate the production of collagen, all while helping to increase the speed of cell turnover, reducing the discolouration and acne, and help smooth fine lines.

Retinol can bring a range of impressive benefits to your skincare routine. Whether you are new to retinol or have used it in the past, learning how to apply it the right way is probably easier than you think.

What Are the Benefits of Using Retinol?

Retinol is mostly known for its ability to tackle all aspects of visible aging and acne at the same time. A variety of different retinoids can be used, including adapalene, retinyl palmitate, retinoic acid, and more. It’s a commonly found fat-soluble vitamin A derivative, naturally found in foods like sweet potatoes, eggs and carrots.

For skincare use, retinol can be found in a variety of over-the-counter products including our very own AGELESS+ Retinol collection. While prescription retinoids are available, you’ll find a range of anti-aging benefits in Image Skincare's retinol-based skincare serums,creams and more!

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Some of the biggest and most notable benefits of using retinol include:

Reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation
Reducing the appearance of age spots and sun spots
Reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines
Minimising the appearance of acne breakouts
Dramatically improving the appearance of collagen-deprived skin
Improving the balance of complexion and tone

When Should I Start Using Retinol?

As an anti-aging product, retinol can be added to your skincare routine at any age. However it seems to offer the most preventative benefits to individuals in their 20s. At this age, collagen production and skin restoration abilities are reduced by 1% annually.

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How Often Should I Apply Retinol?

It can be used daily. However, many experts recommend using retinol every two to three days to start. When beginning, ease into it slowly. Retinol can be intense and potentially very drying for your skin. This is especially true for skin that is dry, sensitive, or prone to acne breakouts.

Once the skin has acclimated to retinol, you can try using it more frequently. Everyone should apply a rich, heavily moisturising cream after using retinol. Depending on your level of dryness, you might even want to consider applying a hydrating serum before retinol to help ease into it. If your skin becomes dry or irritated, take a break for a day or two.

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When Can I Expect to See Results?

Patience is key. While this ingredient is highly touted as a powerhouse ingredient, it can take up to twelve weeks of consistent use to see positive results. Your skin will need several weeks to adjust to the ingredient and start reacting to it on a cellular level.

You may start to see some results within two months, but the best and most positive results will be seen around the third month. Take your time to find a retinol product that works for you such as Image Skincare's AGELESS+ Retinol Overnight Masque and try to stick with it over the long term to get the best results.

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How to Use Retinol Correctly

Retinol can be highly effective when it comes to reducing the appearance of blemishes, minor damages, and fine lines on your skin. However, proper application can directly affect the results of a retinoid routine. It is an intense ingredient and can potentially be very drying for your skin.

Many dermatologists will recommend starting slow with a lower percentage of retinol. This gives your skin the time to slowly ease into a higher percentage of the ingredient without experiencing too much drying, redness or irritation.

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Step 1: Be sure your face is thoroughly washed. Apply an eye cream to the delicate skin around your eyes.
Step 2:Ensure your skin is thoroughly dried. Damp skin can prevent the retinol from properly absorbing into your skin.
Step 3:Apply a very small pea-sized amount of retinol to your finger and start by applying it to your chin and moving upward into your cheeks.
Step 4: Place another pea-sized amount on your finger and apply it to your forehead by slowly smoothing it into the skin.
Step 5:Try to let the retinol absorb into your skin for 20-30 minutes before applying your favorite moisturiser in the evening.

Is Retinol Safe?

When used correctly and applied slowly, retinol products such as our AGELESS+ Retinol Treatment Créme are a safe and highly potent addition to your skincare routine that can boost the results of your anti-aging and blemish smoothing goals.