Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, is one of the most well known products in the skincare world, renowned for its anti-aging properties. However, the question of how often to use retinol can be perplexing, especially for those new to this potent ingredient.
This article will explore the benefits of retinol, how to incorporate it into your skincare routine, and highlight some of Juice Beauty’s top products that feature this superstar ingredient.
What Does Retinol Do?
Retinol is celebrated for its ability to minimize the look of visible signs of skin aging, making it a favorite among those seeking youthful, radiant skin.
You can count on retinol to:
- Support cell turnover (out with the old, in with the new)
- Support your skin’s natural collagen production
- Smooth out the appearance of your skin, reducing fine lines and wrinkles
- Improve the look of skin texture and tone
- Help with breakouts
However, because retinol is a potent active ingredient, it is essential to use it currently to avoid potential irritation.
How Does Retinol Impact Different Skin Types?
One thing that you should keep in mind is that different skin types will react differently to retinol. Here’s a quick guide about what you can expect, depending on your individual skin type:
Oily Skin
If you have oily skin, you are one of the lucky ones — oily skin tends to tolerate retinol quite well. You might be able to use it more frequently than other skin types.
Dry Skin
Go slow and make sure to moisturize well. Your skin might take a little while to adjust, and can dry out easily if you don’t take a measured approach.
Sensitive Skin
If you have particularly sensitive skin, proceed with caution. Start with a lower concentration of retinol and use it less frequently. Many Juice Beauty products are great for sensitive skin, thanks to our natural formulations.
Combination Skin
If you have combination skin, you might need to adjust how you apply retinol, using more of the product on oily areas and less on dry patches.
How Often Should You Use Retinol?
The answer to this question isn’t necessarily one-size-fits-all. As we know, everyone’s skin is different. Still, there are some general guidelines that are considered good skincare practices.
For retinol newbies, here are a few rules of thumb:
- Start with using retinol two to three times a week.
- Give your skin a few weeks to adjust.
- If all goes well (no lingering redness or irritation), gradually increase to every other night.
- Eventually, you may be able to use it nightly.
While it can be exciting to bust out new products and try new routines, there’s no trophy for applying retinol every single night. Listen to your skin — it will tell you what it needs.
What Are Some Signs You’re Using Retinol Too Often?
Your skin might not be very happy if you are overdoing the retinol. Keep an eye out for these signs that you are using retinol too often:
- Redness
- Dryness or excessive flakiness
- A burning sensation when you apply other products
- General skin irritation or sensitivity
If you notice any of these, it’s probably time to dial it back. Think of it as your skin telling you to slow down.
What Are Some Retinol Myths?
Let’s clear up some common misconceptions about retinol:
Myth #1: Retinol Thins Your Skin
The truth? It actually thickens the deeper layers of your skin where wrinkles start. And, believe it or not, this is a good thing! It’s how retinol functions to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Myth #2: You Can’t Use Retinol in the Summer
The truth? You can use retinol year-round. There is a reason this myth was started though. Retinol can make skin extra sensitive to the sun, so it’s doubly important that you wear sunscreen when you are also using retinol.
Myth #3: Retinol and Retinoids Are the Same Thing
The truth? Retinol is a type of retinoid, but it is gentler on the skin than prescription retinoids. We suggest trying over the counter retinol before resorting to retinoids, which can be pricier, and also require a dermatologist appointment to get a prescription.
Myth #4: You Will See Results Overnight
The truth? We wish this one was true, but good things take time. Patience is a virtue when it comes to skincare. It usually takes anywhere from 4-6 weeks to really start to see results.
What Are Some Retinol Products To Try?
Now that you know the ins and outs of retinol, let’s take a closer look at some of Juice Beauty’s retinol superstars. These products are all naturally formulated, with 30% active ingredients and 70% juice, giving you the skin of your dreams while being good to the planet.
Here are some of our top picks:
1. Stem Cellular Anti-Wrinkle Retinol Overnight Serum
This serum is the heavyweight champion of Juice Beauty’s retinol lineup. It packs a punch with 2.5% Bio-Retinol and Retinol, combined with our signature plant stem cell technology. It’s like sending your skin to boot camp while you sleep- you wake up looking refreshed and renewed.
Users reported a 67% reduction in dark spots in less than two months and a 36% reduction in roughness in only 1.5 months.
2. Stem Cellular SleepWrinkle Retinol Overnight Eye Cream
The skin around your eyes is extra sensitive- it needs special care. This eye cream is gentle enough for the delicate eye area but still packs a retinol punch. It’s like giving your eye area a comfy pillow and a smoothing iron all in one.
97% of users in an independent lab study showed improvement in fine lines and wrinkles, while a whopping 100% reported that the skin around the eyes was more hydrated and smoother.
3. Green Apple Age Defy Serum
While not strictly a retinol product, this serum is a perfect pair for a nighttime retinol routine, especially as your skin is getting used to the introduction of retinol. It uses organic fruit acids and antioxidants to brighten and smooth your skin. It’s a great option if you’re looking to ease into retinol or want to complement your retinol routine.
4. Stem Cellular Anti-Wrinkle Ceramide Overnight Cream
We love this intensive hydrating cream as a foil to our Anti-Wrinkle Retinol Overnight Serum.
Especially great for those with dry skin, this cream will help you to wake up with skin feeling replenished and restored.
Squalane derived from olives helps support the skin’s moisture balance, while antioxidant-rich sacred lily and champagne grape seed oil offer skin protective benefits. 91% of those who used this product reported enhanced skin softness and suppleness after just one use, and it was voted Best in Class by Medical News Today.
5. Prebiotix SPF 45 Glow, Daily Multi-Tasking Moisturizer
We told you to wear your sunscreen when using retinol, right? Consider this your reminder. This beloved multi-tasker has natural mineral zinc that melts right into your skin for a hydrated, dewy glow.
Its broad-spectrum SPF will protect against harmful UVA and UVB rays, while Emblica Fruit extract helps protect skin from free radicals. Throw in some aloe leaf juice and jojoba seed oil for moisture, and you’ve got one of our most popular SPF products.
What Are Some Tips for Using Retinol?
Now that you’re armed with some awesome Juice Beauty products, let’s talk about how to use them like a pro.
Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your retinol routine:
- Start slow and steady: Start with a lower concentration of retinol and gradually work your way up. Your skin will thank you.
- Night owl: Retinol works best when applied at night. Plus, since you can become more sensitive to the sun, starting out with nighttime application only is the way to go.
- Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize: Retinol can be drying, so make sure to follow up with a good moisturizer.
- Sunscreen is your friend: We can’t stress this enough — always wear sunscreen when you’re using retinol.
- Take a break if needed: If your skin is feeling irritated, it’s okay to take a break from retinol. Your skin isn’t going anywhere. It’ll be there when you’re ready to start again.
Your Retinol Journey Starts Here
We’ve covered a lot of ground when it comes to retinol. From the basics of retinol to the science behind it, and everything in between. Remember, everyone’s skin is different, so what works for your best friend might not work the same for you. The key is to listen to your skin, start slow, and be patient.
Incorporating retinol into your skincare routine is like embarking on a whole new skincare adventure: there might be a few bumps in the road, but the destination — healthier, younger-looking skin — is totally worth it.
With brands like Juice Beauty, you can feel good about what you’re putting on your skin. Here’s to glowing, youthful skin naturally.
Sources:
Human Skin Aging and the Anti-Aging Properties of Retinol | Biomolecules
Retinol: The Ideal Retinoid for Cosmetic Solutions | Journal of Drugs in Dermatology
A Clinician's Guide to Topical Retinoids | Canadian Dermatology Association