Retinol is a favorite night-time ingredient for smoother-looking skin, but it has a reputation for being tricky to start. The good news is that a slow, simple approach makes it far easier. Here is how to begin.
What retinol does
Retinol is a form of vitamin A. With consistent use it helps skin look smoother and more refined, and it can soften the appearance of fine lines and uneven texture.
Start slowly
Retinol can make skin feel dry or sensitive while it gets used to the ingredient. To ease in:
- Patch test on a small area first.
- Start with two evenings a week, with a rest night in between.
- Use a small amount, about a pea-sized drop for the whole face.
- Build up to more nights as your skin feels comfortable.
How to apply it
Apply to clean, fully dry skin in the evening, avoiding the eye area and corners of the nose and mouth. Our Shadow Renewal Retinol Facial Serum is designed for this night-time step. Follow with a moisturizer to keep skin feeling comfortable, such as our Beef Tallow and Wild Honey Cream.
Always wear sunscreen
Retinol can make skin more sensitive to the sun, so use sunscreen every morning and limit direct sun exposure.
What to pair it with, and what to space out
Hydrating products like our Ocean Spell Hyaluronic Acid Serum are a good match. If you also use vitamin C, keep it for the morning and retinol for the evening. See our comparison of vitamin C vs retinol for more.
A note on patience
Give retinol at least a few weeks before judging it. If your skin feels irritated, take a break, reduce how often you use it, and talk to a dermatologist if you have concerns. Retinol is not recommended during pregnancy, so check with your healthcare provider if that applies to you.
Looking for a complete routine? Read how to layer face serums in the right order or browse our serums.
