With new anti-aging products being released every month or so, one product that has stayed consistent over the past few decades has been Retinoids and Retinols. If you have yet to find that perfect home remedy or Pinterest DIY for glowing and youthful skin, it may be time to introduce a Retinoid into your nightly routine.
As we get older, our cellular turnover decreases significantly. Cellular turnover refers to the process of shedding dead skin cells and replacing them with younger cells. Retinoids are a vitamin A derivative that promotes cell turnover. This helps your body clear dead skin cells, oil and debris. This also allows your body to thicken the epidermal layer, which causes your skin to be firmer, with less fine lines and wrinkles.
When introducing a Retinoid into your nightly routine, it may take a few weeks for your skin to adjust. I suggest starting slowly with just a pea-sized amount every 3rd night for a few weeks, then increase to every other night. Do this for a few weeks before trying to use it every night.
Retinol works within your skin where it boosts collagen synthesis, increases elasticity and will repair connective tissue. Due to the changes that this product causes, your skin has to adjust and your skin cells need to re-learn how to turnover at a much faster pace. This usually leads to retinization. Retinization is the adjustment period in which the skin adapts to retinoid treatment. During this period, you may notice dry, red or peeling skin. While this process can definitely test your patience, it is worth it to push through.
A prescription retinoid comes in various strengths, most commonly 0.025, 0.05 or 0.1. I recommend you start out at a low dosage, and you work your way up as your body can handle it. If you notice your skin getting irritated with the prescription retinoid, you may want to choose a medical-grade retinol.
My personal favorite is the Alpha Ret Overnight by Skin Better Science. Alpha Ret Overnight causes little to no irritation and is the perfect duo of Retinol and Alpha Hydroxy Acid. No matter which product you decide on, all Retinols and Retinoids have an active ingredient that is sensitive to sunlight. This is why you should always apply them at night and keep them stored in a darker place.
While buying every anti-aging skincare product is the first step, adding them into your daily routine is the second. Consistency is key when it comes to seeing results and it all becomes so worth it when you do. If you have always wanted to try a Retinoid but have been wary of the side effects that may come along, this is your sign to try them out. You’re only a few serums and creams away from your dream youthful skin.
