Are you often confused while selecting skincare ingredients? It may be difficult to choose the perfect skincare routine for your skin problems. If you are looking for something that can help you clear acne and promote youthful skin, choose none other than retinol. However, it is important to learn how it works and its uses to ensure you don’t experience any side effects. We spoke to our expert Kiran Bhatt, Cosmetologist, Vice President, Junoesque Clinic, Delhi, who explained uses, benefits, and how to use retinol.
"Retinol, a form of vitamin A, has anti-ageing effects and can help clear acne. In addition to over-the-counter retinol products, prescription retinoids are also available in more concentrated concentrations. Retinol is a topical treatment, which means, it is applied on top of your skin. It comes in many forms, including creams, gels, lotions, ointments, and serums", said Dr Bhatt.
What Does Retinol Do For Your Skin?
"Retinol increases skin cell production, helping unclog pores and exfoliating the skin. It also boosts collagen production, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and giving the skin a fresher, plump appearance", said Bhatt.
Topical retinoid products that are available include:
- Adapalene
- Alitretinoin
- Bexarotene
- Tazarotene
- Tretinoin
How Long Does It Take Retinol To Work?
"Retinol starts working in your cells right away, but it'll take several weeks before you see an improvement in the look and feel of your skin. Your skin condition may even look worse at first as you adjust to the new regimen", said Bhatt.
According to Harvard Health Publishing, it typically requires three to six months of consistent use before improvements in wrinkles become noticeable, with the most significant results appearing between six to 12 months.
What Does Retinol Treat?
Retinol works by increasing cell turnover, stimulating collagen production, and reducing inflammation in the skin. It effectively treats acne, acne scars, and stretch marks, and has anti-ageing effects. It can also help to fade hyperpigmentation and make the skin more radiant and youthful.
Is Retinol Good For Your Skin?
Retinol is a powerful ingredient against ageing skin and acne, but it is not suitable for everyone. If you are prone to allergies or sensitive skin, you may want to consider alternative skincare products. Bhatt added, "Retinol makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so be sure to use sunscreen and minimise sun exposure while using retinol products".
Dry and itchy skin is a common side effect of retinol users, particularly after using a new product. Additional adverse reactions could be skin peeling, redness, and itching.
Also, retinol should be avoided if you plan to spend a lot of time outside without appropriate sun protection.
Also Read: Is Anti-Pollution Skincare Effective? Expert Unravels The Truth
What You Should Know
Before starting a retinol regimen, consult a dermatologist, especially if you have sensitive skin or specific concerns. Bhatt informed, "Start with a low concentration and gradually increase frequency and strength to minimise harsh effects. Incorporate hydrating and soothing products into your routine to fight dryness and irritation. While using retinol, be mindful of other skincare ingredients you are using and their compatibility."
Contact your dermatologist if you develop a severe reaction to a retinol product or if you don't see results after using an over-the-counter retinol product for a few months and want to consider the next steps.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert before using anything on your skin, especially if you are dealing with any skin issues.]