What is Retinol? Where can I get it? Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A, known as a powerful ingredient for anti-aging – one of the few anti-aging ingredients proven by the scientists. In recent years, many dermatologists have explained its benefits, with different skincare brands offering anti-aging products made with retinol.
Our editor has compiled for you how to use retinol safely and effectively, some of the recommended retinol skincare from Neutrogena, CLINIQUE, Paula’s Choice, Murad, CeraVe and more, as well as overseas cheap online stores to kickstart your anti-aging skincare routine!
Content:
► Benefits and Important Notes
► 6 Recommended Retinol Skincare Items
Benefits of Retinol & Important Notes
1. What is Retinol, Benefits
As one of the derivatives of vitamin A, the concentration of retinol is lower than the high-concentration retinoic acid which needs to be prescribed by a doctor, so it is more suitable for daily maintenance and used in your daily skincare routine. It’s proven to help improve fine lines, anti-aging, blemishes, shrink pores and prevent acne.
2. Important Things to Note Before Using Retinol
Everyone’s skin tolerance is different. In the first 2-4 weeks of using retinol, your skin may have a mild allergic reaction to retinol, such as redness, dry itching and tingling. After using it for a while, when your skin has gotten used to the ingredient, the allergic symptoms will gradually disappear.
💡 With so many retinol skincare brands on the market, please pick the right product according to your own skin type, and start with skincare which has a concentration of 0.1%. According to the product description, start using it about 2-3 times a week with a small amount to slowly build up skin tolerance!
3. Do’s and Don’ts When Using It With Other Skincare
Learn the do’s and don’ts of retinol and using it with other skincare:
- Apply products with retinol first
- Use hyaluronic acid & retinol together for intense hydration
- Slowly add retinol to your routine to help reduce irritation
- Slowly combine retinol with acne products or chemical exfoliants (AHAs, BHAs) to see how your skin adjusts
- Protect skin with Broad Spectrum SPF 30 or higher during the day
6 Recommended Retinol Products
-Affordable Drugstore Brands-
1. Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Range
The unique Accelerated Retinol formula is used to maintain the activity of A-alcohol for a long time. It mainly reduces fine lines from the root, doubles anti-wrinkle and restores skin elasticity. The sales of the same series of eye cream, night cream and repair cream are high.
It is one of the mildest retinol skincare item for beginners and one of the most affordable!
2. Tunemakers Retinol Essence 10ml
Made in Japan, this retinol essence will enhance the firmness and elasticity of the skin around the eyes, while hydrating the delicate and sensitive skin around eyes!
Not available in Malaysia.
Price in Japan：RM57/10ml（JPY1,782）
3. CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum
With encapsulated retinol, this serum helps skin look smoother and more even-toned. Pore-minimizing serum for face helps refine skin’s texture over time and helps visibly reduce the appearance of post-acne marks.
Not available in Malaysia.
Price in US：RM50/30ml（US$11.33）
-Premium Brands-
4. Clinique Smart Clinical Repair™ Serum
An innovative de-aging trio set for younger looking skin, this set worths US$113.50! Using a new medical grade retinol, also known as #Laser firming and anti-wrinkle essence. Unlike other vitamin A that can only be used at night, this one can be used day and night to renew aging cuticles and repair skin texture around the clock.
Malaysia Price: RM438
3-Piece Set Price：RM327（US$74）
5. Paula’s Choice 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment
Founded by Ms. Paula Begoun, an American skin care expert. All product formulas use scientifically-proven effective ingredients without fragrances, colouring and any harmful ingredients.
Bestselling products include 0.1%, 0.3% and 1% high-strength retinol skincare products, among which 0.3% is being awarded the 2020 AskMen Grooming Award for the best anti-aging treatment.
Malaysia Price：RM295/30ml (Sold Out)
Price in US：RM274/1oz（US$62）
6. Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Range
Founded in 1989 by Dr. Howard Murad, an American skin care expert and professional dermatologis, was named one of the best dermatologists in the US by VOGUE magazine. The signature Youth Repair Serum features Retinol Tri-Active Technology, clinically tested to visibly improve signs of skin aging within 2 weeks.
Tips: You can also check out latest deals on UK Lookfantastic/US Sephora to compare prices!