I Was Terrified of This Ingredient Until This £20 Product Transformed My Skin
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"Retinol is derived from vitamin A and is considered to be one of the most effective ingredients to help reduce visible signs of skin ageing," explained Davidson. "It sinks into the skin and speeds up cell turnover—causing your body to churn out fresher, smoother skin. Consistent use of retinol in your skincare routine should significantly reduce the amount of fine lines, dark spots and acne."
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"Use a pea-sized amount of your chosen form of retinol every night, 30 minutes after washing your face for 2 to 3 weeks—then every other night after that," said Davidson. "Be careful not to use other harsh products such as acids and peels when using retinol, though you can use your normal moisturisers on top. Be diligent in applying sun protection the next morning, as retinol can increase skin's sensitivity!"
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"Start with a gentle retinol and build up," advised Davidson. "You want to gradually increase the concentration, as your skin becomes more accustomed to the ingredient. Skin is also more sensitive during winter months so try to lessen your application during the colder months. Our Retinol Reface combines retinol, a retinol-like peptide and plant-based retinol microspheres. These make it less like to irritate the skin, so it’s a great one for beginners."
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"The popularity of retinol has increased due to the increased availability of over the counter retinols, and in turn, the increased demand," Davidson told us. "Research has debunked old myths such as retinol being harmful to the skin. The clear results of brightening skin, reducing pigmentation and fighting ageing lines have made retinol one of the biggest buzz words in skincare."
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"Retinol is not recommended for use during pregnancy or for those with very sensitive skin," advised Davidson. "Bakuchiol is an amazing alternative and perfect for those who have sensitive skin who struggle to use retinol, and it's also safe for use during pregnancy.
"Bakuchiol is clinically proven to significantly reduce wrinkles and hyperpigmentation without causing any of the irritation associated with using retinol. It is suitable for daily use both daytime and nighttime and doesn’t increase photosensitivity, so it's perfect for those with sensitive skin who are looking for a really effective anti-ageing ingredient. Plus, derived from a plant, bakuchiol is completely natural, so it's suitable for vegans."
The £20 product that convinced me that retinol is well worth using.
If you're nervous about using retinol, then start with a low concentration formula like this one from The Ordinary to get your skin used to it.
A slow-released formula from affordable beauty brand The Inkey List to minimise irritation without compromising on results.
The addition of soothing jasmine flower in this retinol tonic helps to repair and protect your skin while the retinol gets to work with brightening and reducing breakouts.
It's not just the skin on your face that can enjoy the benefits of retinol—your hands can too. This luxurious cream fades pigmentation and dark spots while also protecting your skin from UV rays.
A concentrated sheet mask containing retinol to combat dull skin, dryness and fine lines. It also has hydrating ingredients to deeply moisturise and boost radiance—all in just 15 minutes.
Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Kim Kardashian both swear by this gentle retinol serum from celebrity facialist Shani Darden.
This has the benefit of high-grade pure retinol blended into a time-release formula, so you'll see more radiant skin from day one and a smoother, more even skin tone and a reduction in pigmentation within 28 days.
Anyone that deals with dark under-eye circles or puffiness regularly will know how difficult they can be to shift. Opting for an eye serum like this one that contains retinol can do wonders at brightening tired eyes and smoothing the skin around them.
For quick results, this 15-minute sheet mask delivers a boost of cell-regenerating retinol alongside hydrating coconut water to rejuvenate tired skin when you're in a rush.