Okay, so here’s the thing: retinoids are tricky. Depending on who you ask, they can be a skin-saver or a less-than-stellar skin-irritant. Unlike other popular skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid, for example, retinol isn’t something you just slap on and call it a day. To properly incorporate a retinol into your skincare routine, it takes time, and sometimes a little experimentation. But, when done right, it can work magic. 

So how should you go about it? It helps to understand the basics first. 

What is retinol? 

Simply put, this ingredient is a gentler, more skin-friendly type of retinoid, which is a derivative of vitamin A (I know, it’s a complicated flow chart). Interestingly enough, our bodies actually produce our own retinol to help boost collagen production and slow down signs of aging. 

However, as we get older, our bodies produce less and less of this stuff, which is why many people opt to add it to their skincare routine. What ends up tripping a lot of people up though, is the care with which you have to apply your retinol of choice. 

Like we mentioned earlier, retinol isn’t just something you start applying every day — your skin has to build up a tolerance. After choosing the right product for your unique skin type, we recommend easing into the process. Start by applying retinol once a week, then work your way up to twice, and then three times a week to minimize any potential redness or irritation. 

Done properly and consistently, this ingredient can drastically improve your skin over just a few months. 

How the right retinol can transform your skin

When you hear people talking about how retinol literally saved their skin from fine lines and adult acne, they’re not kidding. Thanks to its unique, skin-boosting properties, this chemical compound can help turn your skin around for the better. Here’s how the right retinol can transform your skin. 

Retinol stops textured skin in its tracks

If you’re suffering from bumpy, textured, or acne-ridden skin look no further. After a few months of using this wonder ingredient, you’ll find yourself with smoother, more radiant skin than ever. For a great beginner treatment that you can slowly build up over time, try Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream ($82).

It can smooth over fine lines and wrinkles…

One of the biggest reasons people love this skincare ingredient is because of its powerful anti-aging properties. When used consistently over time, it can not only reduce the appearance of the fine lines and wrinkles you already have but can also actually help prevent new ones from forming! For extra anti-aging goodness, we love L’Oréal Revitalift Triple Power Anti-Aging Moisturizer ($24.99).

And improve hydration 

Contrary to popular belief, retinoids actually boost your skin’s ability to retain moisture. For sensitive skin types though, we recommend trying a formula specifically made for dry and sensitive skin, like RoC Retinol Correxion Sensitive Night Cream ($17.99).

One last note:

Retinol comes in a variety of strengths, so you may experience a bout of irritation or redness at first. This is normal! This ingredient can take around 3 months to actually start showing visible signs of progress, so it’s important to stick with it regularly, and not get put off if you experience slight irritation.

We recommend starting your retinol regimen by slowly building it up from once a week to twice, and beyond over a couple of months. This is not a magical, overnight product, but its long-term effects are well worth the patience.

Want to learn more about creating an anti-aging regimen? Read our tips on how to age gracefully.