My Introduction to Retinol
I know that I am late to the party, and I can admit this. I’d heard so much about retinol in the past but never paid much attention to adding it into my routine because all I focused on was retinol = wrinkles, and I don’t have wrinkles. However, using the retinol that was in the Pigment Perfecter Kit from PCA skin, I soon saw that I was missing out on all of the other benefits. Not only is retinol good for the anti aging properties, but it also assists in even skin tone, now we’re talking. Here are three benefits of adding retinol to my skincare routine.
*You can see my review on those products here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Be_ozE093BY
What is Retinol Anyway?
First, let’s break down what retinol is. Retinol is a form of Vitamin A, it has powerful ingredients that target fine lines and promote even skin tone. As I’ve gotten older, I noticed that my skin doesn’t bounce back as quickly as it used to. It can look dull and dehydrated, and fine lines are making an appearance. Adding retinol to my night time skin care has made a major difference with the above issues.
Benefits Of Adding Retinol:
Even skin tone is high on the list of my concerns because I do have hyper-pigmentation on my cheek. I noticed when using a retinol serum after a few weeks, my skin began to slowly even out. It didn’t completely fade the hyper-pigmentation, but my skin texture was drastically different. My chin and jawline is where I have the most uneven texture due to hormonal acne. After using the retinol my skin in this particular area is even and toned and the fine lines are minimal. Definitely a win in my book.
*You can read the full blog post about the PCA Skin Kit here: https://beautybylmarie.com/2020/10/18/brighten-up-my-review-of-the-pca-skin-pigment-perfecter-kit/
Speaking of even skin tone, the last benefit I wanted to list was how bright and glowing my skin has been looking. Adding the retinol at night gives it a chance to work on renewing the skin and revealing even brighter skin giving me a natural glow. Glowing, even skin with no visible fine lines? Yes, please!
My Current Favorite Retinol Products:
The products with retinol that I’m currently loving are from PCA Skin as previously mentioned. Shop the Pigment Perfecter Kit from HeyAprill here: https://www.pcaskin.com/by-skin-type/heyaprills-pigment-perfecters.html.
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Serum -$42.99– This serum works gently on the skin 5% power facial anti-aging serum included, to fight signs of aging, dull skin, fine lines and wrinkles.
The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane– $7.00– This is an expensive but powerful retinol serum that I use at night. This product has greatly improved my skin texture by reducing dark marks and giving a brighter complexion.
How to Use Retinol:
Retinol is best used at night as it can make your skin more sensitive in sunlight. Start by using the product 2-3 times per week and watch for any reactions. Take note of your skin (I prefer to do before and after pictures) so you can track your progress with adding this ingredient into your routine. Also, use the retinol before your nightly moisturizer, or add a pea sized amount in with your moisturizer. *Please consult your physician if you are pregnant or nursing. Also talk to a dermatologist or skin care specialist for any reactions from using retinol*
If you’re currently using retinol, let me know the brand and how it has worked for you in the comments.
XOXO- Lydia Marie
[…] you know, I’ve sang the praises of retinol many times and will continue to do so. In my 40’s retinol has probably been the most beneficial product […]