Retinol Cream: What It Is, Benefits, How To Use, Side Effects, Price

Retinol is a form of vitamin A that is widely used in skincare. It belongs to the Retinoid family of compounds that are known for increasing collagen production and increasing cell turnover. It is known for its ability to treat wrinkles, improve skin texture as well as reduce wrinkles. Besides cream, Retinol is available in other forms as well. It is available as – 

• Gels
• Lotions
• Ointments
• Serums

Retinol Cream Working

Retinol works by slowing down the breakdown of collagen in the skin, this increases the elasticity resulting in a Plummer and a firmer skin. Along with this it unclogs pores reducing acne and things such as blackheads, white heads and acne scars.

Retinol Cream Uses

Retinol cream is used to treat a wide variety of aging related and other skin conditions. Some of the other skin conditions that it is used to treat are as follows –  

• Anti – aging: Retinol cream helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles by increasing the production of collagen.
• Treatment of acne: It helps reduce acne by unclogging skin pores, reducing oil production, and preventing acne breakouts. 
• Dark spots and hyperpigmentation: It helps in reducing acne scars, treating uneven skin tone as well as dark spots. 
• Retinol improves skin texture as it smoothes skin and reduces pore size. 
• It brightens skin by promoting faster skin renewal. 

How To Use Retinol Cream 

In case you are using Retinol for the first time, it is important to start slow. Use it twice a week at night and start with a cream that has a lower concentration of retinol. Retinol cream with a concentration of 0.1% to 0.3% is ideal for beginners as it can irritate the skin in the first few uses as well as make the skin dry. A thin layer of the Retinol cream should be applied on clean and dry skin. Use moisturizer and sunscreen daily. While using retinol cream, it is recommended that the individual uses SPF 30+ sunscreen daily. 

Retinol Cream Dose and Strength For Various Skin Conditions 

Retinol cream comes in various strengths. The strength and dose will depend upon the individual as well as what it is being used for. The table contains some general recommendations with regards to the use of retinol.

Retinol Cream Combinations

Retinol combined with other skincare can be helpful in minimizing skin irritation and getting the maximum benefits from using Retinol. However, it is important to remember that Retinol is a powerful ingredient and it can’t be combined with all types of skincare. It should be combined correctly or layered correctly with other skincare products for maximum benefits.  

There are four ways to combine Retinol safely with other products. 

Retinol and Hyalurionic acid

This combination is best for hydration as well as skin renewal. Retinol can be drying, and combining it with hyaluronic acid can help keep the skin hydrated.Hyaluronic acid can be applied along with a moisturizer after the application of the Retinol cream. 

Retinol cream and Niacinamide

This combination is best for reducing skin  irritation and brightening. Niacinamide calms irritation, reduces readiness and makes the skin barrier stronger. One way to use these two in combination is to apply niacinamide in the morning and retinol at night. Another option is to apply niacinamide before retinol at night. 

Retinol and peptide combination 

This combination is best for anti-ageing and firmness. Peptides and retinol compliment each other as they both help with collagen production and repair. The retinol cream should be applied first and the peptide serum should be applied later. 

Retinol cream and ceramides 

This combination is best for skin barrier protection. While Retinol may weaken the skin barrier, ceramides will restore moisture and strengthen the skin barrier. Any ceramide based moisturizer can be used after retinol. 

Retinol Cream Combinations To Avoid

Following is a list of ingredient combinations to prevent the side effects of retinol cream from getting worse. These are as follows. 

1. Retinol + AHAs/BHAs (Exfoliating Acids – Glycolic, Lactic, Salicylic Acid)

This combination can make the skin excessively dry and irritated. It is best to avoid this combination. In case a person has to use them together, they should be applied on alternating nights. 

2. Retinol and Vitamin C

These two ingredients should not be used together as they can increase skin sensitivity when used together. In case both of them have to be used together, they should be used alternatively. Vitamin C can be used in the morning for brightening and retinol can be used at night. 

3. Retinol + Benzoyl Peroxide (For Acne)

The two, when used in combination, cancel each other out and make each other ineffective. They can be used alternatively. 

Retinol Cream Side Effects

Retinol in retinol cream is a strong ingredient and contains a strong ingredient retinol and can have some potential side effects. These side effects are as follows – 

• Skin irritation and peeling which is a common experience for many first time users of retinol.  This can be taken care of by using a moisturizer. 
• Redness or dryness: In case a person experiences redness or dryness while using retinol cream, it is recommended to reduce the frequency of retinol cream use. 
• It is not safe for use during pregnancy, breastfeeding mothers or women who may be planning on getting pregnant anytime soon.  cause birth defects; avoid pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Avoid mixing it with products that contain Benzoyl Peroxide & AHAs/BHAs and Vitamin C. 

Retinol Alternatives

For sensitive skin there are a few effective alternatives available. These are Bakuchiol and Niacinamide. Niacinamide is similar to retinol and helps with brightening and improving skin texture. Bakuchiol is a plant-based retinol alternative that is similar but gentler than retinol. 

Retinol Cream Morning and Night Routine

The following 5 step morning routine is recommended for using retinol cream in the morning.

• The first step is to use a gentle cleanser
• second step is the application of vitamin C which is optional
• Hyaluronic acid or Niacinamide can be used for hydration and skin barrier support
• Use moisturizer with soothing ingredients
• Sunscreen with SPF 30+ is a must

The following steps can be followed for a nighttime routine with retinol cream,

• Cleanser – make sure to cleanse thoroughly especially if you wear makeup during the day
• Niacinamide can be used before applying retinol
• Retinol application, thin layer
• Moisturizer with peptides

Retinol Tips For All Skin Types 

• Start with a small dose and low per week frequency
• It is best to apply retinol at night as it makes the skin sun sensitive
• Pair it with a sunscreen and moisturizer 
• Be patient as it can take 6-12 weeks to show results

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Disclaimer

The information on this blog is strictly for informational purposes. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor before taking any medication.

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