Does retinol really help with skin aging? - #62

Anonymously

I’ve been hearing a lot about retinol lately and how it’s supposed to be amazing for reducing wrinkles and fine lines. I’m considering adding a retinol cream to my skincare routine, but I’ve also heard it can irritate your skin. How do you use retinol safely without causing redness or peeling? Does it really work for anti-aging, or is it overhyped?

Retinol

Skincare

Anti-aging

Wrinkles

Skin health

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Doctors’ responses

Dr. Evgeny Arsentev

I am a highly qualified medical professional with over 15 years of experience in General Medicine. My expertise spans diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions, providing evidence-based care, and mentoring junior doctors. I am dedicated to ensuring patient well-being through a combination of clinical skills and compassionate care.

67 days ago

Retinol, a form of vitamin A, is one of the most well-researched and effective ingredients for anti-aging. It can help reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and even improve skin texture by increasing cell turnover and stimulating collagen production. So, yes, it definitely works, but the key is using it correctly to avoid irritation.

To start, use a lower concentration (like 0.25% or 0.5%) and apply it only 2-3 times a week at first to allow your skin to adjust. You can gradually increase the frequency as your skin gets used to it. To minimize irritation, apply it to clean, dry skin, and make sure to follow up with a gentle moisturizer. Avoid using it on the same nights as other strong actives, like exfoliating acids.

If you experience redness or peeling, scale back and focus on moisturizing. The irritation should subside as your skin builds tolerance. And, don’t forget sunscreen in the morning, as retinol can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.

Retinol is definitely worth trying for anti-aging, but it's important to be patient with your skin while it adjusts. If you continue to have trouble with irritation, a dermatologist might be able to recommend other formulations or alternatives.

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