As the ‘gold standard’ of anti-ageing skincare, retinol is well known for its ability to reverse signs of aging, such as blemishes and fine lines. But, as with all effective treatments, the results don’t come without some side effects, such as redness, dry skin and even some peeling, depending on your skin type.
The good news is that while you may be required to endure a bit of a purging period at the start of your retinol journey, once your skin has adjusted, it should become easier to get the best results from the ingredient. With a little bit of know-how, you can avoid some of the common expected retinol side effects and get your glow on without any fuss!
You can find retinol in a variety of products, from a moisturising cream to a serum. The formula of the product will affect how effective it is. For example, a cream or oil base will be more effective at penetrating the skin and will therefore have more pronounced firming effects. However, a cream base can also make your skin feel greasy, so opt for an oil-free option if you have sensitive skin.
If you are new to retinol, it is best to start with a low concentration (like 0.1% or below) and work your way up as your skin becomes used to the ingredient. It’s also important to use a high factor sun protection when using a retinoid, especially in the winter when UV levels are lower.
Another tip is to start using your retinol in the evening, so that it can do its magic while you’re sleeping. That’s why this overnight serum from Olay is the perfect choice, as it contains a high-performance retinol complex with niacinamide and will leave your skin brighter in the long run.
A retinol product doesn’t have to be expensive, either, as this budget-friendly pick from Q&A offers remarkable efficacy at a very affordable price point. Its stable retinol formulation works to reduce the appearance of fine lines and dark circles around the eyes, while a blend of nourishing ingredients, such as shea butter and hyaluronic acid, helps to keep your complexion hydrated.
La Roche-Posay’s ultra-gentle eye cream is a true beauty bible, offering anti-ageing benefits while also tackling some of the most annoying beauty issues, such as crow’s feet and dark shadows under the eyes. This is achieved through its advanced retinol complex, which uses stabiliser technology to minimise irritation, while licorice root extract and ceramides help to diffuse pigmentation. And the fact that it is gentle enough to use around the delicate eye area means it won’t cause those teary-eyed, flaky reactions that are often associated with retinol.retin a cream uk