What does retinol do to your skin?

Retinol is all over our screens. Whenever you search for skincare, chances are you'll come across this ingredient. But what exactly is it? How do you start using it? And how can you get the most out of it without overwhelming your skin?

To make it as easy as possible for you and get straight to the core of retinol, here’s a guide answering all your questions.

Frequently asked questions

What is retinol?

Retinol is a form of vitamin A and one of the most researched ingredients in skincare. It helps accelerate cell turnover, stimulates collagen production, and effectively targets fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and acne. Sounds good, right?!

The different types of retinol

It’s important to know that there are different types of retinol. The key difference lies in the strength of the ingredient. So before you enthusiastically buy a serum, read through this to find out which retinol works best for you.

Retinol is the most commonly used form of vitamin A in skincare. The skin converts it into retinoic acid, which takes longer, making it less irritating than pure retinoic acid.

If you're new to retinol, it's best to start with a mild formula that allows your skin to adjust gradually. Below are two beginner-friendly options that are gentle yet effective:

1. Cosrx Retinol 0.1 

2. The Potions Retinol

Retinaldehyde, also called retinal, is a stronger version of retinol because it converts to retinoic acid more quickly. This means faster results with less irritation.

For those looking for faster results but with minimal irritation, retinal is a great option. Below is a product that combines retinal with other skin-soothing ingredients:

1. By Wishtrend Vitamin A night cream

Retinyl Palmitate, on the other hand, is the mildest form of vitamin A. Since it requires multiple conversions before becoming active, it is less potent but also much gentler on the skin. This makes it a suitable choice for those with sensitive skin or for individuals who find retinol too strong.

The most powerful form is tretinoin. This is the strongest and most effective type of vitamin A, but it is only available by prescription. Because it works directly without requiring conversion by the skin, results appear faster. However, this also comes with a higher risk of irritation, making it less suitable for beginners or those with sensitive skin.

How to start using retinol in your routine?

Start Low & Build Up

Start with a low concentration like 0.2% and no higher than 0.5% and use it maximum 2 times per week. Your skin needs time to adjust.

Wait 2-3 Days

Retinol works long-term. Do not use it daily in the beginning but give your skin 2 to 3 days of rest between applications to prevent irritation. This is also a good way to test how your skin reacts.

How much retinol should you use & where?

Given how powerful retinol can be, you may be tempted to go all in, but trust us: less is more. And in this case, it's really wise to stick to that. Use a ‘pea-sized’ amount for your entire face. Yes, that’s it. Another important tip: do not apply retinol around your eyes, lips, nostrils, or on irritated skin. These areas are thinner and more sensitive, making them more prone to irritation.

What can you use with retinol?

• Hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides to soothe the skin.
• Niacinamide helps strengthen the skin barrier and reduce irritation.
• SPF (always!) – Retinol makes your skin more sensitive to the sun, so a good sunscreen is a must.

What should you not use with retinol?

• Vitamin C → Can be too irritating when combined with retinol. Use vitamin C in the morning and retinol in the evening.
• AHA’s & BHA’s (like glycolic acid and salicylic acid) → Too much exfoliation can damage your skin barrier.
• Benzoyl Peroxide → Neutralizes the effect of retinol and can cause extra dryness.

Patience pays off!

Retinol is a powerful ingredient in your skincare routine, but it requires patience and consistency. Build it up slowly, pair it with the right ingredients, and never skip your SPF.

Want to start with retinol? Check out all our retinol serums! Or you can read our other article about our top retinol serums.

And as always, if you have any doubts or need advice, chat with one of our experts.

With love for skincare, Little Wonderland