Retinol: Expert Guide For Beginner and Regular Users
The retinol excitement is real. But do you really know what retinol is—and what it does?
Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that are converted into retinoic acid, the active form of the molecule, but there are different strengths of retinoids. Prescription retinoids come in higher concentrations of vitamin A compared to over the counter ones such as retinol (the most recognised form).
Over-the-counter options include retinol or retinal, and must go through more conversions once applied to the skin to provide the benefits of retinoic acid (than the prescription version) making retinol less potent, but also easier to tolerate.
Retinol speeds up cell turnover, causing your body to “push” out fresher, smoother skin again, essentially it tricks your body into thinking it’s younger than it is! You won’t see results overnight—it’ll take at least three months of consistent nightly use of retinol to notice some reduction in fine lines, dark spots, and acne. Below are the best retinol products you can find in New Zealand!
Retinol prevents wrinkles by smoothing current fine lines and wrinkles but also minimises new ones that form.
Murad
Resurgence Retinol Youth Renewal
Serum
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CosMedix
Elite Refine Rx Retinol Resurfacing Serum
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Retinol brightens dullness by exfoliating on a cellular level, revealing brighter, smoother, and, quite literally, newer skin.
DermaQuest
SkinBrite Retinol Brightening Serum
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StriVectin
Multi-Action Super-C Retinol Brighten & Correct vitamin C Serum
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Retinol treats acne by regulating oily skin, but also keeps pores from clogging, resulting in fewer blackheads, cysts, and pimples.
VERSO
Blemish Fix
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Obagi
OBAGI360 Retinol 1.0
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Retinol evens out pigmentation over time, fading sunspots, acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and dark spots.
Drunk Elephant
A-Passioni Retinol Cream
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Epicuren
Retinol Anti-Wrinkle Complex
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Remember, retinoids cause the skin to shed cells faster than normal so might experience a few weeks of flakiness, dryness, irritation until your skin adjusts. Always start slowly, gently and every other night initially as you build tolerance.
DON’T use too much (pea size is plenty).
DON’T skip daily SPF use.