Retinol is a true all-rounder in the world of skincare, firming the skin, refining the complexion, combating imperfections, and providing a fresh glow! Here, you'll learn everything you need to know about retinol and how it can transform your skin.
What is retinol?
Retinol is a form of vitamin A found in many anti-aging products and acne treatments because of its important role in building skin's structure. It is a retinoid, which can be found in various forms and strengths in skin care products.
How does retinol work?
Retinol penetrates deep into the skin and converts into retinoic acid, which becomes active at the cellular level. This acid binds to skin receptors and stimulates the production of new skin cells and collagen. This makes the skin appear more even-toned. However, patience is required. Initial changes are visible after 6-8 weeks. After 12 weeks, the skin already appears noticeably more even and smoother, and after about 6 months, long-term benefits such as minimized hyperpigmentation and smoothed wrinkles become apparent.
Benefits of Retinol
Retinol offers many benefits to your skin:
1. Anti-aging:
By stimulating collagen production, the skin appears firmer and smoother, helping to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
2. Skin renewal
Retinol promotes cell renewal by removing old skin cells and making room for new, healthy ones. This results in a more even skin tone and a smoother skin texture.
3. Acne treatment
By keeping pores unblocked and regulating sebum production, retinol helps fight acne. It also regulates inflammation and promotes the healing of acne scars.
4. Hyperpigmentation
The accelerated cell renewal process promoted by retinol can help lighten dark spots (colloquially known as age spots and pigmentation) and other forms of hyperpigmentation. This leads to a more even complexion and makes the skin appear fresher.
What is the Retinol Purge and how long does it last?
We often hear about the so-called "retinol purge," but what exactly is it? The "retinol purge" describes a phase at the beginning of retinol use in which the skin can become more sensitive and experience increased breakouts. This happens because retinol accelerates cell turnover and brings impurities to the surface. This phase typically lasts between four and six weeks. Despite this initial reaction, it is important to continue using retinol because the skin will improve and clear up over time. However, it is important to note that not everyone experiences this phase. Some people experience no or only minimal reactions, such as mild redness or dryness, and no significant increase in breakouts. This does not mean that retinol is less effective for them; rather, their skin is less sensitive to the increased cell turnover.
Tips for using retinol:
1. Insert slowly
It's best to start with a low concentration, such as in our custom cream, and use retinol only once or twice a week in the evening before gradually increasing the frequency and concentration, for example, by using it in our custom serum . This allows your skin to slowly acclimate to retinol.
2. Evening routine
It is best to use retinol in the evening, as it makes the skin more sensitive to sunlight.
3. Sun protection
Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 during the day, as retinol makes skin more sensitive to UV rays.
4. Moisturizing care
To minimize irritation and dryness, use our moisturizing DMS cream, which helps strengthen the skin barrier.
5. Patience
Even though retinol is called a multi-talent, it can take several months to see visible results. Consistency and patience are key to success.
6. Pregnancy
During pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is recommended to avoid the use of retinol and other retinoids.
Retinol is a powerful ingredient with numerous benefits for your skin—from reducing wrinkles to fighting acne. While the retinol purge can be a challenging phase, it's worth persevering to see long-term improvements. With proper use and patience, retinol can be a valuable addition to your skincare routine.
