How to Incorporate Retinol Into Your Skincare Routine

by Vulette Haines October 15, 2024

Retinol isn’t just a trend - it’s a proven ingredient that can smooth fine lines, boost collagen, and completely transform your complexion. Whether you’re new to retinol or looking to optimise your routine, here’s how to incorporate it with ease.

Here are our top tips for adding retinol to your routine with as little irritation as possible:

Retinol Tip 1: Low and Slow

If you're new to retinol, begin with a lower concentration, typically 0.2% or 0.5%, to allow your skin to adjust. Gradually increase the strength as your skin becomes more tolerant.

Retinol is potent, and if used too frequently, especially for beginners, it can cause irritation, redness, or peeling. The key is to ease it into your routine.

Begin by using retinol products like our lowest strength Pure Retinol 0.2% in Luxurious Plant Oils just once or twice a week. If your skin tolerates it well, gradually increase the frequency to every other night or even nightly. It’s important to pay attention to how your skin reacts and adjust accordingly.

Shop Pure Retinol in Luxurious Oils Range

Retinol Tip 2. PLEASE Patch Test

Before applying retinol all over your face for days in a row, and then wondering why it is suddenly all red - do a patch test on a small area to check for any adverse reactions.

Retinol Tip 3. Use Retinol at Night

Retinol makes your skin more sensitive to UV rays, which is why it is best used at night. Incorporating it into your evening routine allows the ingredient to work its magic while your skin goes through its natural overnight repair process.

Retinol Tip 4. Hydrate, Buffer and Soothe

Retinol can sometimes be drying, especially for those new to the ingredient. Make sure to pair it with hydrating, strengthening and soothing products to maintain your skin's moisture barrier.

Use the Hydrating & Healing Serum before and after retinol to buffer the impact of the retinol, 8 hyaluronic acids including Zinc Hyaluronate ensure skin is hydrated on multiple levels and healing is supported.

Shop Hydrating & Healing Serum

After applying your retinol, follow with a nourishing skin barrier moisturiser to keep your skin in tip top shape. The Deep Hydration Moisture Cream was formulated to support skin alongside strong actives such as retinol or acids.

Shop Deep Hydration Moisture Cream

Keep reading: 9 Best Ingredients for your Skin Barrier

Retinol Tip 5. Use Sun Protection

Sunscreen is essential when using retinol as it can increase sensitivity to sunlight. Ensure you apply SPF50+ daily when using retinol in your routine. It helps protect your skin from UV damage and maintain the benefits of using retinol.

Shop Sunscreen Lotion SPF50+

Retinol Tip 6. Be Patient

Retinol is a long game! Consistency and patience is key. Results may take several weeks to become noticeable, but with continued use (and if you’ve followed all the other 5 tips), you'll start to see your skin become smoother, firmer, and more radiant. By gradually building up tolerance and maintaining a regular routine, your skin will reap the full benefits of this powerhouse ingredient.

Why Use Retinol for Your Skin?

Retinol offers several benefits that make it a valuable addition to your skincare routine:

Collagen Boost

Retinol encourages the production of collagen, a protein essential for maintaining skin's firmness and elasticity.

Skin Renewal

Retinol accelerates skin cell turnover, which is crucial for shedding damaged skin and revealing fresher, healthier skin beneath.

Hyperpigmentation

Retinol can help fade dark spots and even out skin tone, making it beneficial for those dealing with various forms of pigmentation.

Acne Control

If you struggle with acne, retinol can help regulate oil production and prevent clogged pores.

The Final Word on Retinol

Retinol is indeed a game-changer for achieving beautiful skin. Its ability to combat the effects of ageing, stimulate collagen, and improve overall skin texture makes it a must-have in your skincare arsenal. Remember to introduce retinol gradually, prioritise sun protection, and be patient in your journey to healthier, more radiant skin. Here's to your best skin ever!