The Complete Beginner's Guide to Retinol: Everything You Need to Know

Retinol is the most proven anti-aging ingredient available without a prescription. But it's also the most misused. Here's how to do it right.

What Is Retinol?

Retinol is a form of Vitamin A that speeds up cell turnover. This means:

• Faster fading of dark spots
• Reduced fine lines and wrinkles
• Improved skin texture
• Unclogged pores

Retinol vs. Retinoids: What's the Difference?

Retinoids are the umbrella category. Retinol is a specific type:

• Tretinoin (Retin-A): Prescription-strength, strongest
• Retinol: Over-the-counter, needs to convert in skin
• Retinal: Faster-acting than retinol, gentler than tretinoin
• Retinyl palmitate: Gentlest, good for sensitive skin

How to Start

Week 1-2

Apply a pea-sized amount once or twice a week, at night only.

Week 3-4

Increase to every other night if no irritation.

Month 2+

Work up to nightly use if your skin tolerates it.

The Retinol Sandwich Method

For sensitive skin, try "sandwiching" retinol between moisturizer layers:

1. Apply moisturizer
2. Wait 5 minutes
3. Apply retinol
4. Wait 5 minutes
5. Apply moisturizer again

Common Mistakes

1. Starting too strong: Begin with 0.25% or 0.3%
2. Using too much: A pea-sized amount is enough
3. Skipping sunscreen: Retinol increases sun sensitivity
4. Giving up too soon: Give it 3 months

Best Beginner Retinols

1. CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum - $18
2. The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane - $6
3. La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum - $43
4. Versed Press Restart Retinol Serum - $22

When to See Results

• 4 weeks: Skin texture improvement
• 8 weeks: Reduction in breakouts
• 12 weeks: Visible reduction in fine lines
• 6 months: Significant improvement in tone and texture

Be patient. Retinol is a marathon, not a sprint.