While there's no right or wrong age to begin using retinol, most dermatologists recommend fitting it into your skin care routine during your 20s. The reason? "The production of collagen fibers starts to decline in our 20s," explains Dr.
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.
If skin is far-gone in later decades, undoing the damage becomes that much harder and more complicated. But you don't want to start too early and that's why Rouleau suggests beginning to add retinol to your regimen in your late 20s.
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. Schlessinger says.
“Absolutely!” says Dr. Nichols. “Retinol is safe to use for men or women in their 20s to help boost collagen and reduce signs of premature aging, such as creepiness, age spots, and fine lines.”
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."
When it comes to taking care of our skin, dermatologists say that 25 is the right time to start using anti-ageing products or at least have a proper skincare regiment. This of course leaves many 20-somethings thinking 'I am too young for anti-ageing products'.
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.
Topical retinoids approved for treatment of acne vulgaris are indicated only down to age 12 years, with the exception of tretinoin 0.05% gel (Atralin), which is approved for use in children as young as 10 years of age.
Q. At what age should I start using vitamin c serum? A. From the age of 18.
To get started with simple skincare habits, you should put together a few items that are mild, including a face cleanser, moisturizer, acne treatment (in case a pimple shows up), and sunscreen. It's essential to wear sunscreen and reapply if necessary, since young skin is more sensitive than adult skin.
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.
A child's skincare regimen should include a daily bath with a gentle cleanser, followed by application of a moisturizer. In the summer, it's also important they wear sunscreen applied several times throughout the day, especially because a child's skin is more sensitive than most adults' skin.
How To Use? 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.
Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid topical should not be used on a child younger than 12 years old.
“If you're overusing your retinol, or if you're using a retinol that's too strong for you, it can lead to peeling, irritation, and excessive dryness, which may have led to retinol's association with skin thinning,” she says.
For teens with uneven pigmentation and dark spots, Sarkar recommends vitamin C, which is brightening, helps build collagen, and has antioxidant action which boosts the strength of SPF.
Ideally you can begin around age 12 with just the basics, using a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. During puberty, you may have to switch your cleanser to an oil control one if you suffer from acne and pimples.
Some experts recommend that people start using anti-aging products as early as their 20s. However, this does not mean that people in their 20s need to purchase an anti-wrinkle cream specifically.
So, how often should you actually use retinol? The short answer: Eventually, most people can use it every day or almost every day, if they like. The long answer: It depends on what kind or product you're using, how sensitive your skin is, and what percentage of retinol you're using.
Peeling, redness, and irritation are common onset reactions for some people when they first start to use retinol. Some reactions get so bad that the common term used to describe the list of effects has been dubbed the “retinol uglies”. Note from a skincare expert: Many things in life get worse before they get better.
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser will clean skin without leaving it stripped of moisture. It can also be used all over the body, not just the face, if your tween wants. Olay Normal Wet Cleansing Cloths are an easy way for tweens to clean their faces.
Use a gentle soap like Dove or Neutrogena, or an acne treatment cleanser (depending on what your parents or healthcare provider suggest). 2. Wet your face and hands. With your fingers or a very soft washcloth, gently massage the cleanser over your face.
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.