Retinol 101
First of all, what the heck are retinols/retinoids?
“Retinoid” is a big broad umbrella term that includes all over the counter and prescription topical vitamin A derivatives. Retinoids are considered the gold standard of topical anti-aging, these ingredients will help improve fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, acne, and help support collagen and elastin production!
WHO SHOULD USE THEM?
Basically any sane client who wants to prevent aging, treat signs of aging, or even treat and prevent acne and pigmentation/sunspots. We do not recommend any pregnant or breastfeeding mama’s to use these active products.
HOW DO I APPLY IT?
With retinoids it is common and expected to see things like flaky skin, dry skin, peeling and irritation but there are many things we can do to help avoid that! Even so, a little peeling is completely normal and your skin will adjust! What we don’t like to see is when the skin gets very red, itchy, angry skin from over use or using the product improperly.
So here is a few tips on how and when to use retinoids in your routine:
Use only a pea-sized amount of retinoid to cover your entire face.
Apply ON TOP of your moisturizer in the beginning, so typically for most of our patients it will be the very last step of your routine you do. We do like to start people just at night and possibly work our way up to doing it twice a day if needed.
We will start you on lowest strength and increase over time as long as you are tolerating it and it is what your skin needs.
We will have you slowly work your way up to everyday use and if you every needed to stop it we would have you do the same thing coming off of it as well. We taper this product for your safety and for your skin's safety!
WHERE CAN I USE RETINOL?
Basically anywhere you want to prevent signs of aging. Our clients typically use it on the face, neck, chest, under eyes, and back of hands.
WHERE TO GET YOUR RETINOL?
We do recommend using a retinol either from your dermatologists or from a medical spa and using one that is medical grade. They will be a little more expensive but worth the money when it comes to know exactly what is in the product and what strength it is. Think of it as a “prescription” for your skin. We want you to be assessed by a medical professional and make sure you are on the right product for your skin concerns!
Remember that retinoids are best used in combination with a comprehensive skin care routine! So book now to talk to one of our medical professionals to see if this would be right for you!