Retinol, Retin-A and How To Start Using

THE BASICS: RETINOL vs RETIN-A — How Do I Start?

Retinol is a non-prescription retinoid that the skin has to convert into its active form retinoic acid (tretinoin) before it can start working its anti-aging magic

Retin-A (Tretinoin) is a prescription strength, higher concentration retinoic acid that is already in its active state so when it is applied topically to the skin, it begins working right away. It tends to be good for people who have oily, more tolerant skin.

Retinaldehyde (aka “retinol's gentle cousin”) is another over the counter/non-prescription retinoid. It goes through one less conversion before the it is in the active state.

Both retinol and retinaldehyde are good for people who have sensitive skin. Personally, I have found retinaldehydes to be better tolerated than retinols in the majority of my patients — and an added bonus is that retinaldehyde is gentle enough to be used around the eyes and on the neck + chest. This is a great retinaldehyde that also has antioxidants and peptides in it.

Why you should even use a retinoid at all? Read more here!

HOT TIPS ON HOW to start USING retinoids:

• Only use them at night and start with no more than 3 nights a week.

• Wash your face, apply toner, Vitamin C, and any other serums you may use and then let your face completely dry.

• Apply a small (pea sized) amount of the retinoid.

• If you have very sensitive skin, mix with a moisturizer

• Your goal is to use it at least 5 nights a week, but start with 3. Don’t add an additional night of use until your skin feels completely back to normal with the consistent 3 nights a week of usage.

• Your skin will flake, feel dry, and have some sensitivity. That is normal. Don’t stop using it or you will go through that every time you restart using retinoids.

Cue the sigh of relief — your skin will adjust if you consistently use 3 nights a week. See our full post on how to layer skincare products here!