From acne to wrinkles, a certain ‘retinol’ seems to be the solution to many skin problems. Feeling lost? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s start with the basics, shall we? Retinol is a type of retinoid that is used to treat a range of skin issues. Retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A which is used to boost cell turnover in the body. Different retinoids work on different levels. Retinol, being one of them, is an over-the-counter version of it that is found in several skin care products these days. The easiest way to incorporate it into your routine would be by going for a retinol serum for your face.
Retinol is great for acne and anti-aging. However, if you’re a beginner, it’s best to be prepared for any side effects of using retinol too as it can be a little harsh.
Now that we’ve gotten the basics cleared, let’s move on!
Retinol Benefits For Skin
Here are the various benefits of using retinol serum on your skin:
1. Retinol For Acne
If you have acne-prone skin, then retinol could be your potential best friend. Considering its ability to regulate oil production in the skin and prevent pores from getting clogged, retinol has become a popular treatment for acne.
2. Retinol For Wrinkles
Retinol is a popular anti-aging treatment as well. By increasing blood circulation and boosting the production of collagen in the skin, retinol can smooth fine lines and reduce wrinkles. If you’re in your 30s, it’s probably a good time to start using retinol in some form. However, owing to early signs of aging, many in their 20s are also opting for retinol skin care products.
3. Retinol For Dark Spots
Another visible benefit of using a retinol serum on your face is that it has the ability to boost cell turnover. This helps shed discolored cells and get rid of dark spots on the skin.
4. Retinol For Dull Skin
Dull skin has become a common skin woe these days. Sometimes it’s stress, other times it’s sun damage. Our indulgent lifestyles too can cause our skin to appear dull over time. Retinol helps undo this damage by brightening the skin and giving it a healthy glow.
How To Use Retinol Serum
Here’s how you should use a retinol serum as a treatment for your face:
Step 1: Wash Your Face
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and then pat it dry.
Step 2: Apply Retinol Serum
Make sure your skin is completely dry. Then take a pea-sized amount of the best retinol serum that suits your skin and apply it on your face.
Step 3: Moisturize
Apply a light moisturizer on your face to prevent dryness.
Best Retinol Products
i. Minimalist 0.3% Retinol Anti Aging Face Serum With Q10 For Fine Lines & Wrinkles
Packed with retinol and antioxidant coenzyme Q10, the Minimalist 0.3% Retinol Anti Aging Face Serum With Q10 For Fine Lines & Wrinkles is one of the best retinol serums out there. This Minimalist retinol serum is a highly stable and powerful one that uses squalene as its base, which protects retinol from oxidation while also nourishing the skin. As far as harsh elements like silicone, sulphate, and paraben are concerned, this one’s got none!
ii. The Derma Co. 0.3% Retinol Serum For Spotless Skin
If the dark spots, acne marks, fine lines, or winkles on your face keep you up at night, then it’s about time you start using The Derma Co. 0.3% Retinol Serum For Spotless Skin in the PM. One of the best serums with retinol and vitamin C, this Derma co retinol serum is dermatologically tested. It gently exfoliates the skin while maintaining the pH level, to ensure even application and minimal irritation.
iii. PIXI Collagen & Retinol Serum
One of the best serums with retinol, acacia collagen, and chamomile, the PIXI Collagen & Retinol Serum is meant to restore your skin’s elasticity and plumpness. The retinol smooths the skin, while the chamomile calms it. This paraben-free formula is suitable for all skin types. Although it’s best to go slow and look out for any side effects of retinol.
iv. Dot & Key Collagen Restorative Time Reverse Retinol Serum
People who use retinol often complain about how drying it can be. Well, the Dot & Key Collagen Restorative Time Reverse Retinol Serum is here to fix that! In addition to its anti-aging and anti-acne charm, this retinol serum has another unique benefit up its sleeve— intense hydration and quick absorption!
v. Nykaa SKINRX 2% Advanced Retinol Anti-Aging Face Serum for Wrinkles & Fine Lines
Rooted in science, Nykaa Skinrx promises this multi-faceted formula to give you high results within a few weeks. With the added benefits of lactic acid and Australian caviar lime extract, the Nykaa SKINRX 2% Advanced Retinol Anti-Aging Face Serum for Wrinkles & Fine Lines will work miracles for your age defense.
i. Olay Night Cream: Regenerist Retinol 24 Moisturiser
For those who do not want to subject their skin to a concentrated retinol serum, a retinol cream like the Olay Night Cream: Regenerist Retinol 24 Moisturiser is just perfect. This Olay retinol 24 night cream is suitable for all skin types. Enriched with retinol and niacinamide, this is one of the best retinol creams as it provides overnight hydration as well as regeneration of the skin. No matter how defeated your skin might be feeling at night, expect to wake up with a plump and younger-looking effect!
ii. Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream
The Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream is all about preserving the youthful contours of your face! Undoubtedly one of the best retinol creams for beginners, this night cream tightens the skin, makes it supple, and increases radiance. When you have normal, oily, combination, or dry skin, this one is suitable for all!
iii. Mamaearth Retinol Night Cream For Women
The Mamaearth Retinol Night Cream For Women is fortified with the goodness of three essential ingredients: retinol, bakuchi, and rapeseed oil. While retinol takes care of fine lines and wrinkles, dabuchi fights aging and hyperpigmentation. Together they deeply moisturize the skin and prevent it from decaying with time! One of the best retinol creams for beginners, this new-age formula is free of harmful chemicals and suitable for all skin types!
i. Nykaa Skin Secrets Retinol & Hyaluronic Acid Sleeping Mask
Packed with the right active ingredients, the Nykaa Skin Secrets Retinol & Hyaluronic Acid Sleeping Mask is an overnight face mask that nourishes and repairs your skin overnight. Unlike other face masks, the smooth texture of this one easily dissolves into the skin, so your linens are completely safe!
i. St.Botanica Retinol Advanced Anti Aging Face Mist
This multipurpose retinol face mist is just oozing with benefits. From cooling and hydrating to evenly moisturizing and rejuvenating your skin, the St.Botanica Retinol Advanced Anti Aging Face Mist can do it all! It also doubles up as a great makeup setting spray while fighting signs of aging. Use this before kickstarting a hectic day or at the end of a long one, either way your skin is getting the retinol it needs!
i. Mamaearth Retinol Face Wash With Retinol & Bakuchi For Fine Lines And Wrinkles
Who could have imagined that using retinol for your skin can be as easy as a quick face wash every morning? The Mamaearth Retinol Face Wash With Retinol & Bakuchi For Fine Lines And Wrinkles is the perfect balance of science and technology. By combining retinol and bakuchi, this skin care formula is all about restoring the youthfulness of your skin while also washing away impurities. Free of toxins and harsh chemicals, this retinol face wash is a skin care dream come true!
i. PIXI Overnight - Retinol Oil
This PIXI Overnight - Retinol Oil is a smooth retinol oil blend that wholeheartedly fights signs of aging. It ensures that the pores on your face stay minimized and the fine lines and wrinkles stay out of sight for as long as possible! Apply this retinol oil as part of your PM skin care routine and enjoy the results!
FAQs On Retinol For Skin
1. What side effects does retinol have?
Even the best retinol cream or serum can have side effects. Look out for the following skin reactions after applying a retinol product:
- Redness
- Irritation
- Itching
- Burning
- Dryness
2. Is retinol safe for long term use?
Yes, long-term usage of retinol is safe for your skin.
3. What should you not use retinol with?
Do not use retinol with exfoliating agents like AHA and BHA acids as it might dry out your skin more than necessary. Vitamin C and retinol also should not be used together. Vitamin C is best used in the morning and retinol should be applied at night. It’s best to pair retinol with a light moisturizer. Also, retinol makes your skin sensitive so make sure to wear sunscreen.
4. How long should you wait to apply moisturizer after retinol?
Wait until the retinol serum has been fully absorbed into your skin before applying moisturizer.
5. What percentage of retinol should I use?
If your skin is new to retinol, then it’s best to start with a low-concentration formula. Start with a 0.01% - 0.03% retinol and then gradually, depending on how your skin reacts, you can increase the strength.
