Retinol is one of the most well-known and most effective anti-aging ingredients available. But how often should you use retinol for the best results?
That depends on your skin type, your skincare goals, and what kind of retinol you're using. Regardless, patience is important when determining how often to use retinol. Less is more with this ingredient. Here's how to use it for the best results.
What Does Retinol Do?
Retinol is a form of vitamin A frequently found in anti-aging products because it:
- Boosts collagen production
- Improves skin elasticity
- Diminishes hyperpigmentation and dark spots
- Prevents clogged pores
- Treats and prevents acne
- Reduces acne scars
- Smooths out wrinkles and fine lines
How Often Should You Use Retinol When Starting?
Since retinol speeds up cellular turnover, overusing it can be bad for your skin and lead to side effects including retinol burn. To avoid that, start very slowly and conservatively when you're new to retinol - and always apply it in the evening.
Start with Low Concentrations
For most guys, it's best to to start by using a low concentration of retinol just once or twice a week. Apply a retinol cream in the evenings after washing your face. Make sure your skin is completely dry before applying any products containing retinol.
Buffer Retinol with Face Moisturizer
If you have sensitive skin that tends to get irritated, apply your retinol cream over top of a thin layer of moisturizer. The latter builds up your skin's natural barrier and serves as a buffer between retinol and your skin. You'll still get the ingredient's anti-aging benefits, but without the harsh irritation that can sometimes accompany it.
How to Increase Retinol Use Safely
After using retinol once or twice per week for 2-3 weeks without irritation, you're ready to increase how often you use it.
- Move up to using retinol cream 2-3 nights per week.
- Always apply retinol to clean, dry skin.
- Use SPF cream during the day to prevent
- Discontinue use if you begin to notice irritation.
Can You Use Retinol Daily?
After slowly ramping up use of retinol products, you can move to daily retinol use if you are not experiencing retinol burn or other irritation. Still, it's best to apply retinol in the evening since it can make your skin more sensitive to UV damage.
Does Using Retinol More Often Bring Better Results?
As long as you cautiously increase how often you use retinol, you can get excellent anti-aging results by using it more often. By stepping up your retinal use every 2-3 weeks, your skin will be able to develop a tolerance to it. This will prevent irritation but maximize your anti-aging results - smoother, brighter skin with fewer wrinkles.
