Without doubts, autumn is the best season to start using a retinol face serum. Even though modern-day retinol can be used in the summer with the sunblock, we still prefer to reach out for it when it’s colder and less sunny. Retinol is one of the most powerful antiaging substances – this effect is confirmed by scientists. In order to make it work, you need to follow some rules. How to use retinol for the highest effectiveness?
What effect does retinol have on skin?
This is one of the strongest rejuvenating ingredients which really improves the appearance and condition of skin. The longer you use it, the better results you get. It’s like working out: the more you exercise, the fitter your body is.
What makes retinol so effective? Tests have shown that retinol intensifies the production of collagen and elastin, speeds up cell renewal, reduces pigmentation spots, treats acne and smoothes wrinkles. A true beauty elixir right? Still, there are some conditions to fulfil: if you want the best effects you need to minimize the risk of irritations. So, remember the top three rules.
How to use retinol?
1. The concentration matters!
Start with a low concentration of retinol. If the first doses are too strong, the skin reacts and feels overwhelmed which obviously doesn’t translate into improvement. No wonder people experience itchiness, burning sensation and – in extreme cases – flaking skin! While treating the skin with retinol you must be cautious!
First of all, use a low percentage of retinol for a start: it proves enough for many women and they are often advised to stick to it.
Secondly, don’t use a higher concentration if you feel your skin is getting better with the product you’re using now. It’s likely your skin will rebel if you change it. The low percentage may be sufficient for your skin type.
Thirdly, even if you use low concentration of retinol, don’t use it every day as a beginner. Use it once a week and after a month do it more often like every three days. After 6-8 weeks you can move on to daily application, ideally before sleep.
2. Hydrate your skin
Replenishing hydration is an essential element if you use vitamin A. Still, even if you don’t use retinol, you should always remember about that: even oily skin needs moisturizing. During the retinol therapy, you must get a good moisturizer, hyaluronic acid serum or pure vegetable oil!
Note!
Slightly flaky skin is normal when you use retinol – this means that changes are taking place and the skin is being restored. The complete overhaul may take more time and you can’t let the skin dry out while making it look younger. The hydro-lipid coating gets weaker during the revitalization process. The epidermis is oversensitive and reactive so keep the skin moisturized, ideally by using a quality hyaluronic acid face serum.
3. Use sunblock
We all know the effect of UVA/UVB radiation on skin. When the skin is very sensitive due to retinol, then sunscreen is a must. You need a high – I mean really high – SPF product: SPF 30 or higher is essential. Use either a moisturizer or BB creams because most of them feature high SPF, creating a powerful anti-sun damage shield.
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