What does retinol actually do for skin?

What retinol changes

Retinol speeds cell turnover, a tidy name for telling older surface cells their shift is over. By helping clear blocked pores, it can also treat acne and help prevent future breakouts. Retinol slows collagen breakdown, which helps minimize fine lines, and it can improve skin hydration as well as texture and tone.12

Retinol or retinyl palmitate may also make pores look less noticeable when they appear enlarged alongside oily skin, mild acne or reduced firmness.3

How to use retinol

1. 1Apply it before bed.
2. 2If irritation is a concern, wash your face and wait 30 minutes before applying retinol.
3. 3Start every other night, then gradually work toward nightly use.
4. 4If retinol irritates your skin, apply a thin layer of moisturizer first as a buffer.
5. 5Use sunscreen during the day. Retinoids can increase your skin's sensitivity to sunlight; broad spectrum, water resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher helps protect against sun damage.

Check your other products for retinol before layering them. If you use a retinol serum, you probably do not also need a face cream that contains retinol.1

When to be careful

Dryness, redness, peeling and irritation can occur with topical retinoids. Naturally sensitive skin is more likely to be irritated, and topical retinoids can worsen eczema because of their drying effect. Do not use products containing retinol or retinyl palmitate while pregnant or breastfeeding.135

How long does retinol take to work?

With regular over the counter retinol, expect first improvements at about three months. Wrinkle improvements across retinoids can take three to six months, with the best results taking six to twelve months. Retinoid benefits need continued use to maintain them. The first improvements take months, putting retinol on skin time rather than one impressive evening.14

What is the difference between a retinoid and retinol?

Retinoid is the family name for vitamin A based ingredients; retinol is one member, and the family includes prescription treatments. Retinol is commonly used in over the counter cosmetics. Tretinoin is a prescription retinoid and is stronger than retinol.25

Does retinol help rough texture as well as fine lines?

Yes. Retinol is used to improve skin texture as well as fine lines. Its cell turnover effect addresses the surface, while slowing collagen breakdown can help minimize fine lines. Both are gradual goals, so judge changes over months of regular use rather than after a few applications.124