Maximize results (and minimize irritation) from retinol treatments with these GH Beauty Lab and dermatologist tips:
✔️ Know the different kinds. “‘Retinoid’ is an umbrella term used to classify topical vitamin A and all its derivatives, including both over-the-counter and prescription forms,” Wnek explains. “Those available OTC for cosmetic use include retinol, retinaldehyde (also known as retinal), and retinyl palmitate, which is generally the gentlest.” Common prescription retinoids are tretinoin (also known as retinoic acid), tazarotene, and adapalene, which are often used to treat acne due to their strength, in addition to anti-aging effects, she says.
✔️ Consider your skin type. Both cream and serum retinol product formulas can be effective, so which is best comes down to your skin type and preferences. If you have combination, oily, or acne-prone skin, you may prefer a serum or lotion, as they tend to be lightweight; if you have normal or dry skin, you may want to choose a cream, as these formulas are richer and provide more hydration.
✔️ Seek out skin nourishers. “Choose retinol products with key ingredients that signal the formula will nourish the skin or mitigate any potential sensitivity to the active,” says Hope Mitchell, M.D., a dermatologist and founder of Mitchell Dermatology in Perrysburg and Fremont, Ohio. “Look for nourishing ingredients like peptides, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, shea butter, and bisabolol to indicate a gentle formula.”
✔️ Eye the packaging. “Retinol is known to degrade when exposed to air and light, so it’s important to seek out products with opaque and airtight packaging or look for ‘encapsulated’ on the label to ensure efficacy,” Wnek advises.
✔️ Don’t forget SPF. Your skin will be more susceptible to burning and irritation from the sun while using retinol, and for several weeks after you stop. This is because speedier cell turnover pushes new, delicate skin to the surface. That means you must apply sunscreen every day when you’re using a product with retinol, even if you’re only applying it at night. (Check out the GH Beauty Lab’s top-tested moisturizers with SPF,)
