While there are many positive benefits of retinoid, if not used properly it can irritate your sensitive skin, resulting in dryness and flakiness. If you are new to Retinoid and just figuring out how to use it, start by using it once or twice a week. Always apply it at night, sunlight reduces its effect.
But what is Retinoid?
Click here to read my detailed blog about Retinoid aka Vitamin A
Retinoids come in all forms such as serums, oils and creams - you should apply it as per the form you are using. For instance if it is a serum you should apply it after your toner or if it is an oil it should be the last product you apply. So the medium dictates how you should be applying it in your skincare routine.
When it comes to how much you should be applying, in this case less is more. You only need a pea size amount for your entire face.
Avoid using other product with it that are exfoliating or acne-fighting in nature. Don't mix Retinoid with Vitamin C, Benzyl Peroxide or AHAs & BHAs. Plus make sure you wear a sunscreen the next morning after you have applied it the night before, as your skin can becomes extra sensitive to the sun exposure with Retinoid use.
Tips on how to use Retinoid
Start early
By early I mean that you should start in your twenties. Get ahead of the game and don't wait for those first wrinkles to show and do damage control. They say prevention is always better than cure. In fact 30 has long been thought to be the ideal age to introduce anti-ageing products but dermatologists recommend that you start in your mid twenties. Again the goal is prevention - so starting ahead of time will help you age gracefully and in a more natural way . The signs of ageing are not visible to you in your 20s and for some it's not even in their 30s - but Retinoid also helps to strengthen your skin and prevent the early signs of ageing.
Introduce Retinoid in to your skincare routine slowly
If you are new to Retinoid you should probably start with a natural option like Bakuchiol - it is a natural and a more gentler alternative to Retinoid. One of my top favorite product's is Bybi Bakuchiol (click here to buy) or The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalene (Click here to buy). Gradually phase in these products into your skincare routine, as higher frequency of application can irritate your skin if the formula is too strong for your skin to handle. Start with a pea-size amount of a lower dosage natural retinol serum, use it once or twice a week and then slowly increase the frequency as your skin gets use to it.
Watch out for initial side effects
There may be mild side effects such as irritation, dryness and sun sensitivity but all these are normal. Your skin is just adjusting to the Retinoid. However if you experience intense flaking, redness and burning then you should stay away from Retinoid all together.
Use it only at night
Retinoid makes your skin sensitive to UV rays and decreases its efficacy, which is why you should mainly wear it at night. So make sure you don't accidentally wear it in the day.
Wear Sunscreen!
I cannot scream loud enough on the importance of sunscreen. But I will try. This product makes your skin sensitive to the UV rays and sunlight is also known to decrease its efficacy. So, it is important to add an anti-ageing sunscreen to your routine. Plus make a mental note not to use it on those days when you are planning to spend extended time in direct sunlight.
Don't stop at your face
One of my earlier blogs emphasizes the importance of taking care of your neck area, there is no exception when using this product. Don't neglect your neck area or décolletage, which are areas notorious for showing signs of ageing. If these areas are sensitive then use an anti-aging moisturizer or pick a gentle formula meant for these areas.
Skincare trends come and go but Retinoid is here to stay. If you are ready to try this ingredient, then keep in mind there is an adjustment period. Retinoids do have a few side effects such as flakiness, dryness and irritation. But these signs are normal for first time users. To minimize these side effects makes sure you use a gentle cleanser and avoid products with alcohol.
If you give Retinoid a chance it can literally be skincare magic when it comes to revitalizing your skin to give your more smoother and even textures complexion. Retinoid is a powerhouse ingredient that deserves a place in your skincare routine!
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II DISCLAIMER: Every skin is different, not everything works for everybody. I recommend you test the product before completely using any new product. II