Retinol starts to work in your cells right away, but it'll take several weeks before you see an improvement in the look and feel of your skin. In fact, your skin condition may look worse at first as you adjust to the new regimen.
Initial Purging: When beginning the prescription of retinol, skin experiences a sort of ``purge'', where accumulated blackheads and overall congestion surface, causing more pimples. There are different variants, but commonly, it takes 4 to 6 weeks in this phase.
The retinol uglies can last anywhere from 4–8 weeks. The exact length of a retinoid purge depends very much on your skin type and sensitivity. The amount and strength of your retinoid product can also play a part. Some people experience a purge flare-up for only a few days, and others don't get it at all.
Yes, retinols can initially cause breakouts for some people as they accelerate skin cell turnover, which can temporarily increase the likelihood of clogged pores. However, this often improves with continued use as the skin adjusts to the retinol.
What most people can expect during this time is that dead cells will rise to the surface, causing dry skin to flake off. New skin can become exposed and may appear red and irritated as it adjusts to this turnover. Whiteheads, blackheads, papules, and pustules may also appear in clusters and hard bumps.
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.
"Results will depend on the potency levels found in the formula and, interestingly, some people convert retinol into retinoic acid more quickly than others," says Nussbaum, noting that the skin typically takes between three to four weeks to adapt to consistent use.
Moisturizers marked for sensitive skin are great options because they're less likely to contain products that can further irritate your skin. If you're not prone to acne, you can try petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline or Aquaphor) as a barrier cream. You can also try aloe vera cream.
Retinol works for acne by preventing clogged pores. You may still see pimples for the first couple of months of treatment — your skin might even look worse (this is sometimes referred to as the retinol purge). But if you stick with it, you'll see clearer skin.
For some people, stopping retinol abruptly may not lead to serious changes, but it's always best to consult a dermatology provider to determine the most suitable approach based on your specific circumstances. However, there is a chance your more obvious signs of aging may return after discontinuing retinol.
In other words, when you use certain products, your skin is likely to look worse before it looks better. A purge can look like blackheads and whiteheads, and it's likely to appear in the places where you normally break out.
Can I use retinol once a week? Yes, you can, but there's really no point in only applying it once a week. It is true that retinol is firstly initially drying and can cause some mild irritation. But this doesn't last long and once your skin is accustomed to the formula you can build to applying it every other evening.
✔️always start with a lower concentration of actives. ✔️if you are using a product for the first time , use it on the morning and check if you can tolerate. ✔️do not use actives if skin is dry, red, itchy or irritated. ✔️use a ceramide based moisturiser to repair skin barrier if you have dryness or itching.
Watch Out for Harsh Side Effects
Garshick says to expect some mild irritation, dryness, and sun sensitivity when you're first introducing the ingredient into your routine. But if you're experiencing any intense flaking, redness, or burning sensations, it's best to shy away from retinol altogether.
How long does retinol purging last? In general, a retinol purge is a one-time deal that takes about four weeks to complete, although the amount of time varies by skin type. (Speaking of, retinol isn't a good idea for those with eczema, severe rosacea, or extremely sensitive skin.)
Improved skin texture: regular use of retinol in the eye contour can help smooth the texture of the skin, making it look smoother and more even. Reduction of hyperpigmentation: this compound can help reduce the appearance of dark spots and discoloration around the eyes.
Going overboard on the potent ingredient (known to cause irritation and dryness at high concentrations) can dry out your skin and make your wrinkles look more noticeable, says Rebecca Kazin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery in Washington, D.C. Avoid this side ...
In addition to increased acne types like whiteheads and blackheads, Dr. Hartman says that new retinoid users may also experience redness, peeling, and general skin irritation, "especially on the areas of the face where the skin is the thinnest, like around the nose and mouth."
Initial skin irritation, dryness, and sensitivity are common when using retinol products for the first time. If you continue to notice these effects on your skin after the first few weeks of use, it's a good idea to discuss this with your doctor or dermatologist [3].
"Clinically, we've seen that it takes about three weeks for skin cells to adapt to retinoic acid and begin building their tolerance," says Engelman, which is why some degree of irritation is totally normal early on.
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.
Retinol (leave to absorb for 10-20 minutes)
Retinols are powerful antioxidants and it is important to allow it to fully absorb if you want to avoid your skin becoming sensitive,” says Dr Liakas. There is a caveat to this rule, however, so always check instructions.