Neutrogena rapid wrinkle relief: what to expect

What can retinol do for wrinkles?

Retinol is a form of vitamin A and belongs to the retinoid family. It increases skin cell turnover and collagen production, helping reduce the appearance of fine lines and improve texture. Collagen is part of the skin's supporting structure. Retinol is available without a prescription and is also used for uneven skin tone and pigmentation.12

Retinol is less potent than prescription tretinoin and generally less irritating, but it is also less effective at reducing wrinkles. The stronger option is not automatically the better starting point. Begin with the least intense retinol formula you can find rather than choosing strength alone.14

How long does wrinkle improvement take?

Retinol starts acting in skin cells before you can see a difference. Changes in the look and feel of skin take several weeks, while visible wrinkle improvement usually takes several months. For retinoids generally, wrinkle improvements become apparent after three to six months, with the best results taking six to twelve months. Those are general treatment timelines, not a promised result for a particular Neutrogena cream.24

Moisturizer traps water in the skin and can immediately make some fine lines look less noticeable. That early plumping is different from the gradual changes associated with retinol. Moisturizer and retinol do different jobs, despite being filed under the same ambitious promise of fewer wrinkles.5

How should you start using it?

For a facial retinol product, use this general sequence alongside its package directions.

1. 1Test a small amount on a small area of skin before applying it to your face. Wait a couple of days and check for marked redness or itching.
2. 2At bedtime, wash with a gentle cleanser and pat your skin dry. Do not scrub.
3. 3Apply a thin layer. General facial retinol guidance uses about a pea sized amount for the whole face. Keep it out of your eyes, mouth and nose.
4. 4Finish with a facial moisturizer that is noncomedogenic, meaning it does not clog pores.
5. 5Use retinol every other night for the first couple of weeks. Increase gradually toward nightly use only as your skin tolerates it and the label allows.

What belongs in the morning routine?

Use a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day on skin not covered by clothing. Broad spectrum means protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Retinoids increase sensitivity to sunlight, so also seek shade and wear protective clothing, including a wide brimmed hat. For sensitive skin, a sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide is an option. Avoid tanning, which accelerates signs of aging.15

What should you use alongside retinol?

Build the routine around a gentle cleanser, moisturizer and daytime sunscreen rather than several wrinkle treatments at once. Using multiple products marketed for aging skin tends to increase irritation, which can make signs of aging more noticeable. Do not apply extra retinol to speed things up; using more than directed can cause unwanted effects. If you already use a prescribed skin treatment, follow your prescriber's application plan rather than adding another retinoid yourself.35

Who should be careful or avoid retinol?

• Do not use retinoids during pregnancy.
• If you have skin allergies, substantial dryness, redness or inflammation, speak with a dermatologist about alternatives before starting.
• Retinoids can worsen eczema because of their drying effect.
• If you have darker skin, watch closely for irritation because it can trigger dark marks, called hyperpigmentation. Starting slowly and using moisturizer helps reduce that risk.
• Keep facial retinol away from the eyes and lips, where topical retinoids can be irritating.

When should you stop or see a dermatologist?

Retinol can cause dryness, redness, peeling, itching and burning. Stop an over the counter product that stings or burns rather than treating irritation as proof it is working. Prescribed treatments have different instructions, so follow your dermatologist's advice.35

If you have used the product as directed for several months and still do not see the improvement you wanted, a dermatologist can discuss other options, including prescription retinoids. Continuing retinoid use is needed to maintain its benefits.24