Here’s the right way to apply retinol and the best products to buy

So, you’ve decided to take the plunge and finally add retinol to your skincare routine. It exfoliates, reduces signs of aging and also wards off acne. What’s not to like, right? But hold on! As transformative as retinol products are, there is a proper application method. Here’s what you need to know to get the most out of it.

Start with a low concentration

Although retinol is a powerful ingredient that will give you visible results within months, it can also have side effects like excessive dryness and breakouts. Therefore, if you have decided to introduce it into your routine, make sure you have consulted your dermatologist first. Dr. Geetika Mittal Gupta, dermatologist and founder of Issac Luxe Clinics recommends starting with a very low concentration like 0.2% or 0.3%, testing it on your skin and then slowly increasing the strength: “Start with only use it twice a week or every other day to see how it reacts to the skin.

Start by applying retinol at night

Due to their potency, retinol products can make skin more sensitive to the sun. Therefore, always apply it at night. “In the morning, be sure to follow your skincare routine with face wash, vitamin C serum, eye cream, moisturizer, and then sunscreen,” advises Dr. Mittal. Gupta.

The application method

Skin experts always recommend applying active ingredients to damp skin for better absorption. However, the same rule does not apply to retinol. Although you should make sure to wash your face before application, make sure the skin is dry first. “On damp skin, the retinol will be absorbed more deeply and in turn will cause irritation. This is also why you should apply your eye cream before the retinol because the area is very delicate and can be irritated if the retinol gets When applying, start at your neck and work your way up in an upward motion,” recommends Dr. Mittal Gupta. According to her, a very small amount (about the size of a pea) should be enough.

Do not mix with other assets

Retinol products should never be combined with acids like AHA/BHA or exfoliants and scrubs. “This would make retinol absorption stronger and could lead to irritated or sensitive skin. The best thing to combine with a retinol is a moisturizer because it hydrates the skin while reducing the chance of irritation,” says Dr. Mittal Gupta.

Avoid facial tools

For the same reason, you should not use facial tools such as massagers, rollers, or guashas, ​​as they facilitate deeper product penetration. As Dr. Mittal Gupta sums it up in a nutshell, with retinol, patience and discipline are key. Follow the rules in the book and you will definitely see results in 2-3 months. If you’re considering adding retinol to your skincare routine, here are some products to get you started.

Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum

Clinique Smart Night Multi-Dimensional Repair Treatment Clinique Retinol

Sulwhasoo Ginseng Concentrated Renovating Cream

Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum

The Ayurvedic Co. Nalpmaradi Curcumin with 2% Natural Retinol Anti-Aging Night Face Cream

SkinKraft Firming Face Serum

Neemli Naturals Retinol & Peptide Serum

Aminu Bio-Retinol Cream

Dermalogica Retinol Purifying Oil

Olay Regenerist Retinol24

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