Retinol: Scientifically Proven Effective

What is retinol?

Retinol is an ingredient you’ve probably heard of. It falls under vitamin A and is known for its effect on skin renewal. That might sound technical, but it simply means your skin renews itself faster. 

And you can see the results. When you use retinol, you help your skin shed old skin cells faster and generate new ones. This can make your skin feel smoother and look more even. Fine lines can also become less visible. It's not an ingredient that changes everything at once, but it does make a visible difference with consistent use. 

Is retinol proven effective? 

Retinol is one of the most researched ingredients in skincare. It has been used for many years in dermatology. Stronger variants are even prescribed for acne and skin aging. 

Retinol itself is the milder variant found in skincare products, but it works on the same principle. It supports cell renewal and helps your skin to regenerate better. 

Why sometimes less is more. 

In addition to its benefits, retinol is also known for potentially drying out or sensitizing the skin. This often happens when you use it too frequently, or when the concentration is too high for your skin. 

Within Korean skincare, retinol is often approached differently. Instead of immediately using high percentages, the percentages are lower, and the focus is more on a gentle, gradual approach. The idea behind this is simple: to support your skin without unbalancing it. 

By opting for a lower, more buildable form and combining this with hydrating and soothing products, your skin remains calmer, and you can more easily continue using retinol. And that makes all the difference in the long run. 

Why starting slowly is important. 

Retinol is powerful. That's why it's important to build it up slowly. Your skin needs to get used to it. If you start too quickly, your skin can react by becoming dry or sensitive. 

By building up slowly, you give your skin the chance to go along with that process. 

How to use retinol without hassle. 

It's best to use Retinol in the evening, on cleansed skin. You can use Retinol as a serum after your toner, or you can choose to apply a layer of moisturizer before using retinol and finish with moisturizer as well. This method is called the sandwich method and ensures that your skin has a protective layer, so to speak, under the retinol.

Please note! You should use very little retinol! The correct amount of serum with retinol is the size of a pea. 

Keep it simple at first and do not combine retinol with other active ingredients. This can cause irritation, which you want to avoid. 

SPF

Retinol accelerates skin renewal. This means that your skin essentially becomes fresher and thinner on the surface. After using retinol, it is therefore extra important to use a good SPF. 

Shop our recommended retinol from SOME BY MI, suitable for all skin types, here.