Dermatologist's Guide to Using Retinol for Beginners

Retinol is like a special ingredient from Vitamin A that helps your skin act younger.

It tells your skin to make more building blocks called collagen, which makes skin smooth and plump.

It also helps old skin cells shed faster, making way for new, fresh skin.

Dermatologists suggest starting to use it in your mid-20s, when your skin naturally starts making less collagen.

You should begin with a small amount a couple of times a week, applying it at night to dry skin.

Always put on sunscreen the next day because retinol makes your skin more sensitive to the sun.

It's good to pair retinol with hydrating products like hyaluronic acid and ceramides.

Avoid using it with strong exfoliants like AHAs or BHAs in the same routine, or on the same night.

If you use it correctly and are patient, you should see smoother skin and a brighter complexion in about 2-3 months.

It’s important to listen to your skin and not rush the process.