Moisturizing Serum
Hydrating your skin is crucial. Retinol tends to dry out the skin, making it flakey and sensitive. Thus, it is highly recommended to incorporate a moisturizing routine into your skincare regimen before using retinol. Antioxidant serums packed with nutrients help deliver deep hydration, improve skin elasticity, and reduce wrinkles. Be sure to choose a serum that suits your skin type.
Moisturizer
Moisturizers help soften the skin by providing the necessary moisture and nutrients to maintain skin elasticity and radiance. They also prevent flakiness caused by retinol. Opt for a moisturizer suitable for your skin type, whether it’s formulated for dry, oily, or sensitive skin, or one with anti-aging properties.
Sunscreen
Retinol can make your skin more sensitive and susceptible to sun damage. Therefore, applying sunscreen daily is an essential step in your skincare routine.
Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher and apply it generously to your skin before sun exposure. Sunscreen helps protect your skin from the damaging effects of UV rays, preventing hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and skin damage.
Hydrating and protecting your skin from environmental factors will help optimize the effects of retinol and minimize skin irritation. Remember, skincare is a holistic process that requires time and patience to achieve the best results.
Although retinol is a beauty powerhouse, it can cause irritation, redness, and breakouts if not used properly. Avoid using or combining retinol with vitamin C, as this combination can be harmful to the skin. Retinol works optimally at a pH of 5.5-6, while vitamin C functions at a lower pH of 2.4-3.5. Combining them may neutralize their individual effects.
It is advisable to use retinol in your evening skincare routine to stimulate collagen production and maintain youthful skin. Vitamin C, on the other hand, should be used in the morning, as it works best during the day. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to protect your skin.
While Benzoyl Peroxide, when used with retinol, can enhance and accelerate acne treatment, it may also cause dryness and flakiness in sensitive skin. One option is to use Benzoyl Peroxide during the day and retinol at night for optimal results. Alternatively, you can apply Benzoyl Peroxide directly to acne spots and wait for about 30 minutes before using retinol.