Barefaced
by auria
Notes on change, skin, and the journey to your truest self.
by auria
Notes on change, skin, and the journey to your truest self.
Many assume retinol alone can miraculously transform their skin. However, retinol should never be the first product you introduce to your regimen. Jumping straight into retinol without a proper skincare foundation can lead to irritation and negate its benefits.
Before even considering retinol, establish a consistent routine involving:
Allow your skin to adjust to these foundational products for one to two weeks. Once your skin tolerates them well, you can thoughtfully incorporate retinol.
Don't rush the process! Retinol can be potent, and abruptly introducing it into a routine that doesn't prioritize basic cleansing, hydration, and sun protection is a recipe for irritation and disappointment. Remember, retinol use should be the icing on a well-baked cake, not the entire cake itself.
Using retinol without diligent sun protection is like trying to fill a leaky bucket. Retinol makes your skin more sensitive to the sun, increasing the risk of sunburn, hyperpigmentation, and accelerated aging. Sunscreen is only part of the solution; avoiding direct sunlight, especially between 11 AM and 3 PM, is also crucial.
If you consistently expose retinol-treated skin to the sun, you may experience increased sensitivity, redness, and even hyperpigmentation, effectively undoing the anti-aging benefits you were hoping to achieve. In some cases, not practicing proper sun protection can lead to premature skin darkening. The goal is to protect and regenerate, not damage.
Starting retinol too early, particularly before the age of 25, is often unnecessary. Collagen production is generally robust in the teens and early twenties, making the preventative measures of retinol less vital.
Introducing retinol too early can lead to unnecessary sensitivity and irritation without providing significant benefits. While it's tempting to get a head start on anti-aging, focusing on basic skincare and healthy habits is more effective at a younger age.
Younger skin can greatly benefit from a solid skincare routine centered around niacinamide, vitamin C serums, hyaluronic acid, and moisturizing sunscreens. These ingredients provide ample hydration, antioxidant protection, and skin brightening benefits without the potential harshness of retinol.
After the age of 25, collagen production gradually begins to decline, making retinol a valuable tool for combating the first signs of aging. Using retinol at this age and beyond is more likely to show improvements in skin firmness, texture and fine lines.
Using retinol alongside other irritating ingredients can overwhelm your skin and lead to inflammation, redness, and dryness. Combining retinol with products containing:
can cause excessive exfoliation and compromise the skin barrier.
Instead of aggressive combinations, focus on calming, hydrating ingredients that support your skin's barrier function.
For experienced retinol users, incorporating AHAs/BHAs can enhance exfoliation, but avoid using these ingredients simultaneously. Use an AHA/BHA serum on one evening and retinol on another, ensuring your skin is thoroughly hydrated and shows no signs of irritation.
The temptation to use multiple retinol products to amplify results can backfire. Overloading your skin with retinol serums, creams, and moisturizers can lead to a condition known as "inflammaging," an inflammatory state that ironically accelerates aging by breaking down collagen.
Avoid layering too many retinol-based products. Choose one quality serum or cream containing retinol to avoid overloading your skin. Remember: Consistency is key; more product does not equal faster or better results.
Inflammaging is a chronic, low-grade inflammation that damages collagen and elastin fibers. To counter this, you will need to keep your skincare regimen minimal and focus on hydrating ingredients that support skin barrier function.
Cosmetic products that contain retinol are typically designed for general use. Retinoids may be incorporated into each of those products. Only use one retinoid containing product per night to avoid complications.
Beginning with a high-strength retinol can be too aggressive for most skin types, especially if you’re new to retinoids. It’s crucial to start low and increase the concentration as your skin becomes acclimated.
If you're new to the world of retinoids, start with a retinol product containing just 0.25% strength. Regular application at this concentration will allow your skin to adapt without causing excessive dryness or irritation.
Increase the concentration to 0.5% when your skin tolerates the 0.25% formula without any discomfort and you feel it is time to level up your results. You can slowly progress toward your goal while preventing complications.
There is nothing like starting with a high percentage retinol product. A higher-strength formula doesn’t guarantee superior results, and can lead to severe irritation for some skin types. Focus on consistent use of a well-tolerated lower strength, rather than pushing your skin beyond its limits.
Although those with oily skin seem to be the perfect retinoid users, there are ingredients that can do better!
Oilyness control, acne and scarring can greatly benefit from Adapalene and Tretinoin rather than cosmetic retinol.
Adapalene and tretinoin both prescription products must be properly described and used under the guidance of a licensed professional to avoid complications.
Frequency and more may lead to complications if used the wrong way!
Start by only using the lowest concentration available (typically 0.25%) no more than two nights a week. Then slowly increase it as needed to reduce the chances of any inflammation.
More often than not, the skin will improve in time with the use of the formula every other night with the same amount of products.
Navigating the world of retinol doesn't have to be daunting. By understanding these common mistakes and implementing these smart strategies, you can maximize retinol's remarkable benefits while minimizing potential side effects. Remember that patience and a gradual approach are crucial for a smooth and effective retinol journey.
Yes, but proceed with extreme caution. Start with the lowest concentration (0.01% or less) and apply it only once a week. Always follow with a rich moisturizer.
Retinol is best used at night as it makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight.
Reduce the frequency of application or pause use. Focus on gentle cleansers, moisturizers and gentle ingredients, and avoid exfoliating acids and scrubs until the irritation subsides.
It typically takes several weeks to months to see noticeable improvements. Consistency and patience are key.
No, retinol should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to potential risks to the fetus.
