Retinol is the new powerhouse ingredient that promises to fight the signs of aging, and there is no better time to start than now. Allow us decode everything you need to know about Retinol that has gained so much popularity in the skincare industry for its beneficial effects. Let's start by understanding what Retinol is and how this magic potion rewinds time for our skin.

What is Retinol?

Retinol is a type of retinoid, a class of drugs derivative of Vitamin A, also referred to as Vitamin A1. Retinoids include both over-the-counter (OTC) retinoid products and prescription retinoid medication that promotes skin renewal and brightening. Retinol converts into retinoic acid in the body, penetrating the layer of the skin known as the stratum corneum and slightly further to a deeper layer known as the dermis.

How Do You Use Retinol?

Retinol is applied topically available in a wide variety of formulas to choose from, like a liquid serum, cream and emollient, to reap the many benefits it provides to improve the health of your skin.

We recommend introducing Retinol in your skin regimen in a slow and controlled manner, starting with a lower concentration to understand your skin's tolerance level towards the product. While using Retinol, some things to keep in mind are:

• Always conduct a patch test
• Read the label for proper instructions before use
• Apply Retinol as a part of the nighttime skin regimen
• Always wear sunscreen after applying Retinol to prevent sun damage

The Benefits of Retinol

Retinol boosts collagen production and its ability to penetrate to the skin's dermis, giving it the rightful status as the "Fountain Of Youth."

Fights Acne
Retinol can reduce & treat a common chronic skin condition like acne caused due to blockage of hair follicles of the skin due to oil and dead skin cells. Blocked pores can also lead to inflammation-causing blackheads, whiteheads and cysts. Topical retinoids such as Retinol can reduce the abnormal skin peeling that blocks pores and unclog them— by blocking molecules that can cause inflammation. As a result, topical retinoids effectively and safely treat acne.

Anti-Aging Properties
It is true! Retinol is a great way to fight against visible signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging caused due to biological age and external factors like; UV light exposure, smoking, and pollution, resulting in loss of elasticity in the skin. Many researchers note that Retinol improves the microenvironment of the dermis, reducing signs of aging by protecting the breakdown of collagen and stimulating cell- turnover. In addition, it allows the skin to look plumper by strengthening the epidermis by reducing the water that passively evaporates from the skin.

Promotes Brightening
Retinol can improve uneven skin tone and skin texture as it boosts cell turnover and collagen production resulting in brighter looking skin. However, use of Retinol should be monitored and slowly incorporated as it may cause irritation amongst dark-complexioned people triggering hyper- pigmentation.

Side Effects of Retinol

Incorporating anything new into your skincare routine should be done slowly and gradually to reduce its side effects. Balancing the use of Retinol is extremely important while ensuring that it is not a highly concentrated solution as it can lead to skin dryness, scaling and itchiness. Also, making skin more prone to sun damage, we recommend applying SPF after using Retinol consistently.