How do you use Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol?

How to apply it

1. 1Test a little on a small patch of skin first. Wait a couple of days before adding retinol to your routine; do not proceed if the patch becomes very red or itchy.
2. 2At bedtime, wash with a gentle cleanser and pat your skin dry. Do not scrub.
3. 3For a facial retinol, apply a thin layer across the face, keeping it out of your eyes, mouth and nose. A pea sized amount is general retinol guidance, not a confirmed Neutrogena dose; follow your pack's amount.
4. 4Finish with a moisturizer that does not clog pores. If retinol is irritating, applying a thin layer of moisturizer before retinol can provide a buffer.
5. 5During the day, use broad spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Use shade and protective clothing as well.

How often should you use Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair?

Start every other night for the first couple of weeks. If that irritates your skin, begin once every few days instead. Increase gradually as your skin tolerates retinol, within the directions on your pack. Daily application is not the starting requirement. Keep daytime sun protection in place while using retinol, because retinoids can increase sun sensitivity.12

Is Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair good for beginners?

Retinol can be a starting option for mild fine lines, uneven tone and texture. Choose the lowest strength available and introduce it slowly. The name Rapid Wrinkle Repair alone does not tell you the retinol concentration or establish which formula is the gentlest starting option. Retinol percentages are not always disclosed on products sold without a prescription.2

If you use a retinol serum, you probably do not need another retinol containing face cream. Choose products that complement each other rather than doubling up on the same active ingredient.4

Can you use Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair around your eyes?

Use a product around the eyes only if its label directs you to that area. Retinoids can irritate skin close to the eyes and lips. Eye area skin is especially thin and gets dry and irritated easily. For an eye cream, gently pat a small amount around the eyes without pulling or tugging, and keep the product out of the eyes themselves.35

How long before you see a difference?

General retinol improvements take several weeks to become visible, while wrinkle changes usually take several months. Around three months of regular use is a useful expectation for retinol sold without a prescription. Moisturizer can temporarily make fine lines look less noticeable by adding fullness to skin; that is separate from longer term retinol effects.14

Who should be careful?

Dryness, peeling, redness, itching and burning can occur with retinol. Skin allergies, existing dryness or sensitive skin make retinol a less straightforward choice. If you have substantial redness or inflammation, avoid retinoids and see a dermatologist about alternatives. Retinoids can also worsen eczema through their drying effect. On darker skin, irritation can trigger dark marks, so starting slowly and using moisturizer matter. Do not use retinoids during pregnancy.123