🤓A Beginner’s Guide to Starting Retinol

You’ve probably heard of the wonders that Retinol can do - Anti-aging, increases cell turnover, stimulates collagen production, fade hyperpigmentation...However, it does come with cons that may scare some away! I’ve been using Retinol for about half a year now & I’ve compiled some tips that I wish I knew from the start for anyone who’s interested to dive into the world of retinol ~

⬇️ Reduce the risk of irritation from Retinol by…

1. Start Low, Go Slow

Back in the days, I started my retinol journey with The Ordinary’s Retinol 0.2% in Squalane & I used it 1x/week for 1.5months, before increasing the frequency to 2x and so on. For oils as such, I use about 2-3drops for my entire face. However if you’re using a gel/cream, just a pea size amount is sufficient. Don’t get greedy, I’ve learnt it the hard way that more does not necessarily mean better with retinol. Slow & steady wins the race!

2. Build up a good foundation

As retinol is known to cause irritation, I’ll make sure to layer more hydrating, calming & skin barrier strengthening products underneath. Building a good base will prep you skin well for the retinol that is to be applied after!

3. Let your water-based skincare dry down before applying retinol (I wait about ~3-5mins)

4. The ”Sandwich” Method

This is probably the BIGGEST TIP I can offer, especially if you have dry skin/sleep in an air-conditioned room. This essential means to moisturise-retinol-moisturise if you have dry skin or a weaker skin barrier. Similarly, I’ll wait for ~3mins for the 1st layer of moisturiser to dry down before applying retinol. If you have oily skin, I’ll suggest you do this method with your daytime moisturiser or it might be too occlusive (whatever feels comfortable on your skin~)

5. Protect & Go Easy

This is so so important as the irritation from retinols may only take effect 1-2days later. Remember to wear a sunscreen with at least SPF30 the morning after, though you should be doing so everyday regardless 👀 I personally don’t use strong actives such as exfoliants the evening after bc of my weak skin barrier, but I know some people alternate their retinols & exfoliating nights, once again to each their own ~

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