Best retinol serum
Retinol is generally considered to be safe for everyone (except those who are pregnant or breastfeeding) but those with darker skin tones do need to be extra considerate about use. “Bakuchiol behaves similarly to retinoids by promoting cellular turnover which ultimately increases the production of Type I collagen, softening the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” says Dr. Most of the products on this list fall into that category, and are a good starting point for most people.īut for the super sensitive or dry skin types, there are retinoid esters-look for retinyl palmitate, retinyl acetate, and retinyl linoleate on the ingredient list-which are the weakest member of the family.Īnd for those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or prefer to stay away from additional vitamin A, try bakuchiol, a plant derivative that’s considerably gentler on the skin. Less intense (and suitable for most skin types, and retinol beginners) are OTC retinol creams and serums. Slightly less hardcore (and gentler on the skin) is a prescription-strength retinoid like tretinoin, often under the brand name Retin-A. You probably know that prescription-strength retinoid, used to treat severe acne, by the name Accutane. At the far end of the severity (and efficacy) spectrum is an oral application of retinoid. So what is retinol exactly, and how does it differ from retinoids? “Retinol and retinoids are both vitamin A derivatives,” explains Dr. As with any supplement, you’ll want to check in with your doctor first to make sure this is a good option for you.Įverything You Need to Know About Retinol What Is Retinol?
If your skin can’t tolerate a retinol, you might want to consider an ingestible option, such as these gummies, which contain retinyl acetate, an ester of retinol that the body converts into usable retinoic acid to promote cell turnover, reduce occasional breakouts and brighten skin.
Best retinol serum how to#
Mack on how to apply these skin-perfectors and work them into your routine for a clearer, firmer complexion. Ahead, we rounded up the best retinol options to consider, as well expert advice and tips from Dr. And while high-quality serums can be costly, there are plenty of affordable picks with stellar results and science behind them. The eye area also requires a gentle approach with a blend of ingredients that penetrate deeply without causing irritation. If you have very dry skin, for example, you’ll want a cream that exfoliates but also hydrates at the same time.
To reap the benefits, though, it’s important to find a retinol formula that matches your skin type and concerns.