At par with sunscreen, integrating retinoids in your skincare routine is highly recommended. I take my information from my dermatologists and Caroline Hirons. In her book Skincare: The Ultimate No-Nonsense Guide, Hirons breaks down the terms, breezes past the confusing marketing talk, and makes a solid case for retinoids.
What is it?
Retinoid, retinal, retinol, retinyl palmitate, tretinoin, retinaldehyde, retinyl retinoate, hydroxypincolone retinoate, or adapalene: These are the many names of Vitamin A. The ingredient is the most studied by skin experts across the globe and through the decades, making it the gold standard of skincare and the primary weapon against acne. It is also scientifically proven to reverse aging with regular and proper use.
How to use it?
Always ask your dermatologist about it first. Clinical grade retinoids such as tretinoin require a prescription and the specific instruction of your doctor. Because like all things, even the good ones, overdoing it will cause harm.
If you’re confident with your ability to discern which products work for you, always start with a skincare item that carries a small amount of retinoid. Build your way as you go and as you see the effects. It is generally advised to use retinoid products in the evening and uses sunblock in the morning.
Go for small amounts and stop when the sting is too much. A pea-size is usually enough. According to Hirons, Kate Somerville believes that if you’re in your 20s, you should use retinoids twice a week, in your 30s three times a week, and four times a week if you’re in your forties, and so on.
Don’t be disheartened if you see redness or dryness, especially if you haven’t tried a retinoid product previously. Once your skin learns to love the retinoid, you will see the results. This includes a glowing, moisturized look and fewer lines. Your skin adapts to its potency, and eventually, you will find your skin’s resistance to it will gradually improve.
What to get?
Elizabeth Arden Retinoid Ceramide Line Erasing Eye Cream and Line Erasing Night Serum is top of my pick. I like this as ceramide provides a moisturizing factor that will help mitigate the irritating effects of retinol. It’s the perfect formulation for newbies, who will eventually be regular retinol users. Available via Shopee.
