Retinol

Retinol is the powerhouse ingredient that can transform your skincare routine. Known as the gold standard in anti-ageing, this remarkable skincare ingredient is your go-to solution for achieving a smoother, more vibrant complexion.

We have curated a great range of high-performing retinol skincare from top K-beauty brands at Skinsider. Want to know more about Korean retinol skincare products? Here’s what you need to know.

What is retinol?

Retinol, a pure form of vitamin A, is renowned for its effectiveness as an anti-ageing ingredient. This remarkable ingredient works to rejuvenate the skin’s surface, helping to restore a youthful appearance by addressing concerns like uneven skin tone, enlarged pores, and rough texture. When faced with environmental stressors or signs of ageing, retinol enhances overall look of the skin. Since the body doesn't naturally produce vitamin A, applying retinol topically helps to achieve a radiant complexion.

What does retinol do for your skin? Retinol benefits

Retinol offers numerous benefits for the skin, including:

- Promoting Healthy Cell Turnover: Helps the skin rejuvenate and renew itself as it did in its younger years.

- Reducing Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Effectively diminishes the appearance of ageing signs for a smoother complexion.

- Enhancing Firmness and Elasticity: Leads to improved firmness and elasticity.

- Evening Skin Tone: Aids in fading dark spots from sun damage and post-breakout marks, resulting in a more even complexion.

- Revitalizing Skin Texture: Addresses concerns such as dullness, roughness, bumps, and clogged pores for a healthier skin.

Retinoid vs retinol

Retinoids and retinol are terms commonly used in skincare, but they differ in chemical composition, function, and availability.

Retinol is a form of vitamin A classified as a type of retinoid. It is known for its anti-ageing properties, improving skin texture and condition. It reduces wrinkles and discoloration and supports cell renewal. It is available in over-the-counter products and is not as intense as retinoids.

Retinoids are a general term for synthetic and natural derivatives of vitamin A, including retinol. They are used to treat various skin issues, such as acne and psoriasis. Retinoids are usually available by prescription due to their strong effects and potential side effects.

Retinal vs retinol

Retinal and retinol are both forms of vitamin A commonly used in cosmetics. However, there are some differences between them.

Retinol is a form of vitamin A that needs to be converted into retinal and then into retinoic acid to be effective, while retinal is a direct intermediate that works faster and more powerfully. The choice between them depends on individual skin needs and tolerance to active ingredients. Retinal acts more gently and is suitable for sensitive, dry, and irritation-prone skin, including those with rosacea.

Can I use retinol under my eyes? Is retinol eye cream safe?

Absolutely! While retinol is a powerful ingredient and the skin under your eyes is delicate, there's no reason to miss out on its incredible benefits. We offer some fantastic retinol eye creams, including the Heimish Marine Care Retinol Eye Serum (30ml) and Some By Mi Retinol Intense Advanced Triple Action Eye Cream 30ml both designed rejuvenate this sensitive area.

What is the best retinol serum?

Some of our favourite retinol serums are:

Isntree Hyper Retinol EX 1.0 Serum

Some By Mi Retinol Intense Reactivating Serum 30ml

If you're unsure whether retinol is the right fit for your skincare routine, try SOME BY MI RETINOL INTENSE TRIAL KIT. This fabulous set includes a mini retinol eye cream and a mini retinol serum, giving you the perfect opportunity to test these products at a fraction of the price of full-size options.

What is the best retinol cream?

We are proud to present you some amazing retinol face creams from the cult K-beauty brands.

We are obsessed with COSRX The Retinol 0.1 Cream and COSRX The retinol 0.3 Cream

The two different levels of retinol concentration allow you to start slowly and get used to.

How to use retinol?

Is retinol okay to use daily? Yes, retinol is most effective when used consistently. However, when starting out, it's best to begin with applications once or twice a week. If your skin responds positively to this approach, you can gradually increase usage to every other night and eventually to nightly applications, as tolerated. This method allows your skin to adapt while minimizing potential irritation.

Also, to avoid skin sensitivity, use retinol in your evening routine and consider using the "sandwich method" when applying retinol: start by applying a layer of moisturizer, then apply retinol, and finish with another layer of moisturizer on top. This technique helps to buffer the retinol, reducing the likelihood of irritation while still delivering its beneficial effects.

What to avoid when using retinol?

Avoid combining retinol with other active ingredients, as it may lead to irritation. Both AHA and BHA are exfoliants, like retinol, and using them together by applying one after another can overly dry out the skin, causing sensitivity or irritation. Also, do not combine retinol with Vitamin C. You can use them on different days. Additionally, benzoyl peroxide can neutralize the benefits of retinol, making it less effective. For optimal results, it’s best to use these ingredients separately.

Retinol for acne

Retinol, due to its exfoliating properties and ability to reduce inflammation, can be an effective aid in treating acne. It can also be used in the treatment of rosacea, particularly for redness and vascular changes.

Retinol accelerates the healing process of damaged skin. It works by exfoliating the stratum corneum and activating regenerative processes in the deeper layers of the skin. It regulates sebum production and reduces oiliness, which is a major factor in the formation of acne. Additionally, retinol helps eliminate discoloration and acne scars while evening out the skin tone.

How long does retinol take to work?

The first signs of improved skin texture is expected after just 4 weeks of using retinol. At the same time, it's important to note that changes in acne scarring can take longer. You may start to notice some improvement within 12 weeks, but significant scarring may require up to six months to heal completely.

Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential. Even the most powerful anti-ageing ingredients like retinol won't deliver optimal results if you're not consistently protecting your skin from pro-ageing UV rays. Sunscreen is a crucial step to ensure your skin is protected.

At what age should I use retinol?

Your late 20s are an ideal time to incorporate retinol into your skincare routine. At this age, the skin's natural production of collagen and elastin begins to slow down. Retinol promotes cell turnover, combats early signs of ageing like fine lines, and prevents the formation of deep wrinkles. Starting in your late 20s allows you to strengthen your skin’s foundation early, keeping it more resilient, youthful, and glowing as you age. Plus, it can help address concerns like uneven texture or post-acne marks before they become more noticeable in your 30s.