This reaction occurs because retinol works by increasing skin cell turnover. The top layer of dead skin cells is exfoliated more rapidly, revealing the newer skin underneath. This accelerated cell turnover leads to peeling in the early stages of treatment as the skin adjusts.
You will be able to tell that Retinol is working if you start to see improvements in the texture and general appearance of your skin. Some people might be able to spot changes in their skin quite quickly, while others will have to be more patient.
a lot of people are making in their skincare routine. If you're using retinol regularly, you really don't need to be exfoliating. Retinol enhances cell turnover. and actually thins out the outer skin layer. known as the stratum corneum. You don't need to use salicylic acid or glycolic acid.
Not everyone experiences the symptoms of retinization. Oilier skin types, younger skin types, those who use a lot of exfoliating products in their skincare routine already, and those who don't have a deficiency in vitamin A may not see any peeling at all. But rest assured, your vitamin A is still working.
What are retinol uglies? Also known as retinol or retinoid purging, the retinol uglies are a temporary period of increased skin irritation and breakouts. They happen when you use skincare products containing retinol or related ingredients called retinoids.
As mentioned above, most retinol can stimulate the skin's natural cell rejuvenation process, causing the thinnest, outermost layer of skin to flake and shed away.
We recommend following the 1-2-3 rule: apply retinol once a week for one week, twice a week for two weeks, three times for three weeks, then move towards every second night if there are no side effects happening. If you do experience flaking, redness or sensitivity, simply move back to a lower frequency for a week.
What does retinol do for your skin? Retinol increases skin cell production (proliferation). It helps unclog pores. Retinol also exfoliates your skin and increases collagen production, which can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, giving your skin a fresher, plump appearance.
Don't combine retinol with alpha or beta hydroxy acids, benzoyl peroxide, vitamin C, and other retinols or retinoids. Don't skip sunscreen Retinols are usually used as part of nighttime skincare routines, but even when they're applied at night, they can lead to lingering sun sensitivity.
If you want to target wrinkles, uneven texture, or acne, retinol is your best bet. If you're looking for brighter skin and protection from environmental damage, vitamin C is the way to go.
If you typically don't experience frequent breakouts but start noticing a sudden increase in pimples, particularly after starting retinoids, this could indicate rapid skin cell turnover or a skin purge. These breakouts are generally smaller and more superficial compared to cystic acne.
Retinol can help improve the skin's firmness, which may help the skin appear “tighter.” However, topical medications (including retinol) can only treat the outer layers of the skin; they cannot address loose or sagging skin due to age-related changes in the underlying support structure of the face.
Because retinoids can be very irritating to the skin if not used properly. The higher the strength, the more skin irritation (redness and peeling), the lower the strength, the less skin irritation.
Gently Exfoliate
No matter what, you'll likely get some dryness and flaking early on. If it bothers you, gently exfoliate. The best way is to massage the skin with a soft, damp washcloth. Don't scrub too hard—you could make your skin feel worse.
If you have subterranean skin clogs, retinol is going to push all those blockages toward the exits, seemingly all at once. As a result, some first-time retinol users feel their complexions are actually getting worse once they begin applying retinol. However, once pores are flushed out, these flare-ups go away.
Blackheads: A clog that widens the opening of the pore is a blackhead. Blackheads don't look black because of dirt; it's the chemical reaction of the pore's content mixing with oxygen that makes them appear black. Another name for a blackhead is an open comedo (open pore).
Is 1% Retinol Too Much for Beginners? If you're a new retinol user, starting at 1% retinol may cause your skin to become irritated and sensitive. For new vitamin A users, we always recommend that you start on the lowest strength (0.01%) and gradually work your way up from there.
Yes, moisturizing after using a retinol cream is generally recommended. Retinol can potentially cause dryness or irritation, especially when starting to use it or if you have dry or sensitive skin.
If you have been using retinol or a retinoid cream, which is a prescription medication, without the prescription of a dermatologist or if you've started it on your own, there is a high chance that you would have overdosed on the retinol and it is causing a lot of dryness or flaking on your skin.
Gentle exfoliation. While it's important to avoid over-exfoliating while using retinol, you can use a gentle scrub when necessary, especially before applying makeup. This helps to smooth the skin and remove flakes without causing further irritation. Use exfoliation sparingly, about every three days.
As retinol stimulates the flaking of old skin cells, you might experience dryness and skin flaking, particularly in areas where you're prone to dryness. This shedding is a natural part of the renewal process, but it's crucial to maintain a proper skincare routine and protect the skin with adequate UV protection.