What is Retinol?

How does retinol benefit my skin?

With age, skin’s natural cell turnover decreases resulting in dull, uneven skin tone and rough skin texture. Topical retinol creams help promote turnover of surface cells, which means dead skin cells are sloughed away faster, revealing visibly healthier and brighter skin. Similarly, retinol’s exfoliation mechanism helps improve the appearance of blemishes by preventing dead skin cells from clogging pores.

Purity is essential for retinol efficacy in skin, as pure retinol most easily converts to retinoic acid in skin. Always look for high concentration of pure retinol vs. retinol derivatives such as retinyl palmitate. SkinCeuticals uses pure, high concentrations of retinol enhanced with stabilization technology to ensure maximum conversion and efficacy.

Can I use retinol in the sun?

Pure retinol acts as a strong exfoliant, which can render skin sensitive to sun and UV damage. Therefore, it is recommended that retinol be applied in the evening and always be used in conjunction with a high broad spectrum sunscreen during the day. Many skincare professionals do not recommend retinol use during peak summer months.

Additionally, research shows that some retinol formulations can breakdown quickly if not in proper protective packaging.  SkinCeuticals retinol creams are packaged to ensure stability and protection of the product potency.

How to use retinol?

In the evening after cleansing and toning, apply a pea-sized amount to the tips of the fingers. Using too much retinol can irritate the skin. Dab the product onto your face, avoiding the eye area and massage firmly until it has absorbed into skin. For optimal results, allow for absorption before applying other skincare products. Limit initial use to once or twice a week, gradually increasing frequency to nightly as tolerated.

Due to the high concentration of pure retinol in SkinCeuticals products, use a retinol cream only at night to limit photosensitivity and irritation. Always apply a broad spectrum sunscreen during the day when using this product.

When to avoid retinol?

Due to its exfoliating mechanism of action, topical retinol creams may increase skin sensitivity and potential for irritation, especially when used with certain medications or in-office treatments such as chemical peels. As retinol creams can increase photosensitivity, extensive periods of sun exposure are not encouraged. It is especially important to apply a broad spectrum sunscreen while using this product. Vitamin A products like tretinoin and retinol are not recommended during pregnancy. Please consult a physician to determine whether the use of a retinol cream is appropriate for you.