What do dermatologists say about retinol?

"Retinol are the gentlest on the skin and least potent alternative, however, if your skin is tolerating retinols well and you aren't getting the desired results, you can up the ante to retinaldehyde, which can be more potent and effective at jumpstarting your skin cells." And if you're looking for the most potent ...

Is retinol dermatologist recommended?

Most dermatologists recommend retinols with surprisingly few caveats. Linda C. Chung Honet, MD, FAAD, tells SELF that, with patience, commitment, and the right skin care routine, people of all skin types could benefit from using a retinol.

What percentage of retinol do dermatologists recommend?

A 0.5-percent concentration is a good baseline.

For beginners, most dermatologists recommend a retinol with a concentration of 0.25 percent to one percent to see results.

Why you should stop using retinol?

“If you're overusing your retinol, or if you're using a retinol that's too strong for you, it can lead to peeling, irritation, and excessive dryness, which may have led to retinol's association with skin thinning,” she says.

At what age should you not use retinol?

There are no set rules on how old you should be to use retinol. For anti-aging purposes, you can start preventatively in your 20s. While over-the-counter retinol can help mild acne, many people with breakouts will need a prescription.

How to Use a Retinoid like a Dermatologist

Is 60 too old to start using retinol?

The good news is that it is never too late to start incorporating retinol into your skin care routine. People in the 60s and beyond have begun using retinol and still experienced results.

Is 1% retinol too strong?

Retinol 1% is the strongest. One of the strongest retinols is SkinCeuticals Retinol 1.0%. There are many high strength retinols that are very effective that are 1% strength (these are also often called retinol 10x).

Is retinol good for skin over 50?

Retinol is also one of the best ways to “reduce the appearance of fine lines, crow's feet, and wrinkles,” says Henry. It's a must in your 50s if you haven't already been using it. Engelman says prescription-strength retinols are “vital” at this stage.

Does retinol damage skin long term?

Topical retinol is generally safe for long-term use without any detrimental health risks.

What happens when you stop retinol?

If you stop retinol and do not begin a prescription retinoid, the benefit of preventing acne will go away. The skin cycle of cells being “born” at the base of the skin and moving to the top, dying and desquamating into the surrounding environment takes about 4-6 weeks.

Why do my wrinkles look worse after retinol?

First, the answer is yes, retinol can make wrinkles worse, especially when you first start using it. What is happening is a drying effect, and one can get epidermal sliding from separation from the dermis.

Is there anything better than retinol for skin?

As Dr. King mentions, peptides make a great retinol alternative. Versions such as copper peptides, palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, and hexapeptides increase skin elasticity and firmness, stimulate cell regeneration, and diminish creasing, respectively, making them extremely versatile when it comes to antiaging.

Which is better retinol or hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid is best if they're looking to moisturize dry skin, while retinol works better by encouraging better skin by boosting collagen production. They have several benefits that can work in tandem for better results, though patients need to be careful with the exact formulations they use.

What are the pros and cons of using retinol?

Retinol is better tolerated and produces considerably less transepidermal water loss, erythema, and scaling than retinoic acid (tretinoin.) Cons: Retinol is significantly less potent than tretinoin and it requires further conversion to retinoic acid to demonstrate its action.

Which retinol percentage is best?

Those with stubborn skin concerns, like deep wrinkles and pronounced uneven skin tone may want to consider a high percentage retinol cream, serum or treatment. But what percentage of retinol is effective? Look for formulations with a percentage between 0.3% and 1%, with retinol 1% being the strongest option.

How do I know if retinol is working?

Retinol starts to work in your cells right away, but it will take several weeks before you see an improvement in the look and feel of your skin. In fact, your skin condition may look worse at first as you adjust to the new regimen.

Will retinol help 70 year old skin?

Because retinoids help your skin make more collagen, they soften wrinkles and fine lines. They also stimulate new blood vessels, which can give your skin a rosy color. Retinoids also help fade age spots and smooth rough patches. Tretinoin (Retin-A) is a popular prescription choice for aging skin.

Is 70 too old to start retinol?

Is it ever too late to start? If you've surpassed your 20s and are concerned that you've missed your window for reaping the benefits of retinol, don't worry—it's never too late to start. Dr. Arthur says she's had patients who reported noticeable results after starting retinol in their 60s and 70s.

How much younger can retinol make you look?

However, it takes three to six months of regular use before improvements in wrinkles are apparent—and the best results take six to 12 months. Because retinoids can cause skin dryness and irritation, doctors often recommend using them only every other day at first and then gradually working up to nightly applications.

What not to mix with retinol?

Don't Mix: Retinol with vitamin C, benzoyl peroxide, and AHA/BHA acids. AHA and BHA acids are exfoliating, which can dry out the skin and cause further irritation if your skincare routine already includes retinol.

Should you moisturize after retinol?

Regardless of your skin type or which product you use first, a layer of moisturizer should always be applied after retinoids.

Is vitamin C serum better than retinol?

While vitamin C is most notable for helping to brighten and improve hyperpigmentation, retinol is typically considered best-in-class for wrinkles and fine lines. And if you really want to give your skin a one-two punch to get noticeably healthier, you can certainly try incorporating both into your routine.