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How to Get Started with Retinol?
First things first, why retinol?
Good question! Glad you asked. Retinol is a topical derivative of vitamin A that promotes skin cell turnover and enhances collagen production. You can find it in a variety of skincare productsfrom creams to serums to oilsand in a variety of potencies (from .25-percent concentration to 2-percent). Don't confuse it with the faster-acting stuff that requires a prescription. That's pure retinoic acid Retin-A, Renovato name a few brands. Retinoic acid is retinol's bigger sister that works more effectively, however it's coupled with more potential side effects like flaky skin and redness. But enough about that now, you can read more of the science-y nitty-gritty here.
What makes it better than say...salicylic acid or vitamin C?
'All three are amazing ingredients, but retinol is one of my favorite ingredients because it works deep below the skin at the cellular level to encourage turnover and reveal fresh, bright skin', says Shani. Unlike salicylic acid and vitamin Cwhich work by sloughing off the dead cells that otherwise build upretinol promotes healing and cellular repair on a more detail-oriented, microscopic scale. Like scrubbing a room with a toothbrush versus a Swiffer both get the job done, although one more precisely so than the other. 'It's a true multi-tasker and has so many amazing benefits', Shani continues. 'It boosts collagen in the skin, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, smoothes the texture of the skin, reduces pigmentation, and it can also help with acne. But it's not an exfoliant! It is often mistaken for one because it helps speed up the rate that new skin comes to the surface.'
How do I get started?
Because using a retinol at night is best, Shani recommends that you 'Start with one night a week and build up slowly, tacking on an additional night each subsequent week. It's important to build up to whatever works best for your skin. Some are able to use it every single night. Others, like people with sensitive skin, may only be able to use it every other night or even less.'
What other beauty products can I pair my retinol with?
'Lactic acid pairs really well with retinol! I formulated my Texture Reform to include lactic acid for a gentle exfoliation to boost the already amazing benefits. On nights when I use retinol, I might also follow up with a hyaluronic acid serum and then a moisturizer if I need it. That's it!'
On the other hand...what should retinol not be mixed with?
'Generally, I feel it is best to not layer too many products at once, whether you are using a retinol or not. It can reduce how well the products work in general. It may also cause chemical burns. Avoid chemical peels while using retinol, unless you have consulted with an esthetician or doctor first.'
What's the best way to start using retinol to avoid the 'uglies' (potential side effects like dermatitis, rashes, bumps, etc.)?
'The best way to mitigate the side effects is by building up slowly to allow your skin time to acclimate. Always wear sunscreen in the daytime, as retinol makes your skin more sensitive to the sun. I created my new product, Texture Reform, with retinyl palmitate [the most gentle form of vitamin A, which is a combination of retinol and palmitic acid] to help people sensitive to retinol build up a tolerance.'
Once I'm on retinol, can I ever stop? Will it fix my skin like Accutane?
'There are no side effects to simply stopping, so you can stop anytime you like. However, retinol does slow down the aging process. It will make a big difference for your skin, but you have to keep using it regularly for the long- term benefits. You know I'll be using retinol for the rest of my life!'