Retinol Skincare Tips & Guide

Retinol is a key ingredient in anti-ageing science. This is thanks to its ability to renew skin with proven visible results and improve skin across a range of concerns and goals, including wrinkle and age spot reduction, improved skin texture, smoothness and radiance.

For anti-ageing, texture improving and radiance boosting skincare benefits, retinol is a superhero ingredient that's hard to beat. Learn how to use retinol for best results with our comprehensive retinol guide.

WHAT IS RETINOL?

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Retinol (also called Vitamin A) is the gold standard molecule used by dermatologists to visibly correct the signs of ageing, including deep wrinkles, uneven skin tone and pigmentation concerns. Retinoids are powerful molecules, among the most used by dermatologists, but they are sensitive to air, water, light, UV, salts and metallic ions, making them very unstable. This explains why their formulation is complex and requires such a high scientific expertise.

Gentle forms of retinol help to support and improve skin without overwhelming it and are usually suitable for all skin types.

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HOW DOES RETINOL WORK?

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Many skincare ingredients brighten and soften skin through exfoliation. This clears dead skin cells and helps to refresh complexions. Rather than removing dead skin cells, Retinol works by penetrating the deeper layers of the skin, stimulating skin cell regeneration, making retinol skincare one of the most efficacious skincare steps.

Retinol accelerates epidermis renewal, boosting skin cell renewal and increasing skin density. Retinol regulates the production of cells favouring the thickening of the epidermis and slows down the degradation of collagen in the dermis. The result is a visible correction of wrinkles.

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WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF RETINOL FOR SKIN?

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By stimulating the skin cell cycle, retinol guides virtually all skin types towards stronger, brighter and healthier looking complexions. By adding retinol skincare to your routine, you can promote the following benefits:

  • Lessen visible discolouration. Dark patches such as dark spots and uneven skin texture can result from UV radiation, skin ageing and mild blemish marks. Retinol can reduce the appearance for an evened skin tone.
  • Reduce blemishes and breakouts. Retinol works to reduce clogged and blocked pores, helping with the appearance of blemishes like whiteheads alongside the size of pores.
  • Anti-ageing results. Fine lines, wrinkles and sagging skin can occur as we mature. Retinol is a powerful tool in anti-ageing, thanks to its ability to promote new skin cells and slow the breakdown of collagen.
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HOW TO USE RETINOL?

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Retinol use will depend on the skin concern you’re looking to address. Because retinol skincare promotes healthier looking skin, you can usually use it for ageing concerns, mild-acne prone concerns and evening tone and texture whenever you like.

If you’re new to Retinol, the Revitalift Laser Retinol + Niacinamide Night Cream is a great product to introduce the ingredient gradually into your routine. This formula combines Retinol and Niacinamide with a 12% complex of soothing ingredients to nourish the skin: Niacinamide, Panthenol, Glycerin and Hyaluronic Acid. Plus, with the press-pump it provides the perfect dose in every press.

Retinol use depends on your unique skin type, so always speak to a dermatologist if you’re unsure.

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HOW DO I KNOW HOW MUCH RETINOL TO USE?

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The Revitalift Laser Pure Retinol Face Serum is formulated with 0.2% Pure Retinol, which provides powerful support to skin for optimal and beautiful results. Different skin types react in different ways to ingredients, and because retinol is potent it’s important to introduce it gradually.

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HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU USE RETINOL?

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Retinol should only be used at night. To allow your skin to get used to Retinol it is recommended to introduce it gradually into your nighttime skincare routine. We have worked with an independent board of dermatologists on the below usage of our Revitalift Laser Pure Retinol Face Serum if using for the first time.

WEEK 1: Use Revitalift Laser Pure Retinol Night Serum for 2 nights per week.

WEEK 2: Use Revitalift Laser Pure Retinol Night Serum every other night.

WEEK 3: Use Revitalift Laser Pure Retinol Night Serum nightly as tolerated.

As Retinol increases the skin's sensitivity to UV rays, always remember to apply a facial sunscreen or broad-spectrum SPF moisturiser such as the Laser x3 Deep Anti-Ageing Day Cream SPF15 the following morning after use.

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Do not use Retinol Serum and Retinol Pressed Night Cream together. Choose one to include Retinol in your routine.
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DISCOVER OUR PURE RETINOL NIGHT SERUM. CLINICALLY PROVEN RESULTS. VALIDATED BY DERMATOLOGISTS.

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MORE RETINOL TIPS AND FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is it ok to use Retinol every day?

Infused in face serums and creams, retinol can bring about beautiful and visible results. While its addition to routines can support stronger, youthful complexions, it’s important to begin use gradually (around 1–3 nights per week) and monitor skin before increasing frequency.

Does Retinol tighten skin?

Retinoids like retinol stimulate collagen production and increase skin cell turnover. These functions mean that retinol skincare provides anti-ageing benefits, addresses the appearance blemishes in skin, and help skin to look plumper and tighter.

What can you not mix with Retinol?

Retinol is a potent skincare ingredient, so in order to prevent further sensitivity it’s recommended to avoid other potent ingredients directly alongside it. Ingredients to alternate use with (either every other day or in morning and evening routines) include:

  • Vitamin C
  • AHAs like glycolic acid
  • BHAs like salicylic acid
  • Benzoyl peroxide

Always consult a health care professional if you are unsure.

How long should I leave retinol on my face?

It's recommended to apply retinol skincare at night time and to a cleansed and dry face. Apply evenly across face and neck, avoiding the eyelid area. Allow a few minutes for the product to absorb deeply before applying a gentle and nourishing night cream. In the morning, follow with a high SPF, broad-spectrum SPF.

What age should you start using retinol?

Many say that the earlier you begin using retinol, the better. This is because retinol not only reduces visible signs of ageing, but also helps to prevent them. While beginning in your 20s is ideal, consistency is key, and it's never too late to start.

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