Generally speaking, I recommend most people start using retinol in their mid to late-20s, anywhere from 25-30. This is when collagen and elastin production starts to slow down, so it's the perfect time to start reaping the preventative-aging benefits retinol has to offer.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends starting an anti-aging treatment like retinol in your 20s. “Because retinol is a preventative measure, you don't have to wait until you're actually noticing signs of aging—like fine lines or crow's feet—to start using it,” Dr.
The truth is that even if you're in your twenties, you're not too young for retinol. Age just doesn't matter. Because it's not only for anti-aging, but it also works for acne. Retinol, and prescription retinoids, are commonly used for getting rid of breakouts—especially in teenagers.
Retinol, and prescription retinoids, are commonly used for getting rid of breakouts—especially in teenagers. Since retinoids are safe for acne-prone teens and their young skin, then retinol is safe to use when you are young before you see any signs of aging.
Myth: Young people can't use retinoids
But there is no age restriction on the use of retinoids. Instead, it's about what skin conditions are being treated. After sunscreen, it's one of the best preventive anti-aging ingredients around.
Start thinking about retinol...but definitely wait till your late 20s. All derms will agree that the earlier you start addressing signs of aging, the better off you'll be. "As you enter your 20s, early signs of sun-damage and aging show on the skin," says Rachel Nazarian, M.D., at Schweiger Dermatology Group.
No, you can start using Vitamin C serum once you are 20.
“Studies suggest you need to use at least 0.25% retinol or 0.025% tretinoin to be effective, so I recommend using a product that specifies the percentage.” When choosing a retinol product, Dr. Rogers says it's best to start with the lowest concentration before moving up. Another thing to consider is your skin type.
It's best to apply Vitamin C before Retinol, as Vitamin C has a lower pH than Retinol. Once your skin absorbs the Vitamin C serum, your skin will return to its regular pH levels after 30 minutes or so. (You want your skin to return to its normal pH levels so vitamin C doesn't lower the pH of retinol.)
Start with a low concentration retinol —around 0.2 percent. If you want to target deeper issues like fine lines and sun damage, you may eventually want to opt for a higher percentage. “A great beginner retinol-like product is Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 moisturizer,” Gabriel says.
Use a gentle cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen to take care of your skin. If you have dry skin, choose a non-soapy formula and salicylic acid for oily skin. Choose moisturizer that is oil-in-water based or gel-based to make your skin grease-free. You can also opt for sunscreen - preferably aqua or gel-based ones.
Niacinamide is one of the most versatile skincare ingredients and is super easy to incorporate into your routine. Suitable for all skin types and all ages (from teens to mature skin) it can be used both morning and evening but remember consistency is key if you want to see results.
Moms of teens will remember that back in their day, a toner was usually a high alcohol content, tingly, burning affair that was used in the hopes of sopping up excess oil. Not only is that completely not what you're looking for here, it's actually very harmful to teenage skin.
Begin in Your Mid 20s or Early 30s
"Your mid-twenties are a great time to start using retinol," says Ellen Marmur, M.D. "Many patients who have used it for years swear by it."
Anti-aging products provide many benefits to the skin as it ages. These products can start to be incorporated into your everyday routine in your early 20s. The sooner you start using anti-aging products, the less likely you are to develop wrinkles and lines.
Using any form of retinol makes your skin more prone to sunburn. Sun damage combined with retinol burn is a recipe for redness or discoloration, inflammation, and more.
You are too young to be starting to use toner/exfoliator. In fact, you don't really need to start washing your face until you are 11. For now, if you're really that keen, just wash your face with mild Cetaphil cleanser and then applying lotion.
Vichy Mineral 89 Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum and Daily Face Moisturizer may be used by people 13 years of age and older. This contains natural origin hyaluronic acid and 15 Mineral-Rich Vichy Volcanic Water to strengthen & repair your skin barrier. It will hydrate and plump your skin.
At this age and beyond, skincare is supremely important. Teens often develop chaotic skin so a good diet and good skincare routine are paramount to keep skin looking its best. We recommend starting a night time and morning skincare routine.
Retinoids
Inflammatory acne that's so common during your teen years may also be treated with retinoids. These are types of vitamin A derivatives that unplug clogged oil ducts to prevent cysts and nodules. Retinoids may be your next step if benzoyl peroxide doesn't do the trick.
So for teens, the ideal skin toners should be the ones that balance the pH level of the skin while keeping the acne away. If you are looking for toners that control oil, then you should look for toners that contain Salicylic acid, as they are known for controlling oil and giving the skin a balanced look.
Is it safe to use retinol every day? For most people, yes — once your skin is used to it, that is. That said, there are some people who may not want to use it frequently or at all.
Retinoids reduce fine lines and wrinkles by increasing the production of collagen. They also stimulate the production of new blood vessels in the skin, which improves skin color. Additional benefits include fading age spots and softening rough patches of skin.