Retinol might be the game changer your skin needs. Here’s everything worth knowing about this holy grail antioxidant.

The first time I learned about Retinol was in the year 2019. It seemed like some holy grail skincare product that only people with aging skin needed in their skincare routine. Upon further research, I discovered that a younging like myself could benefit a whole lot from this holy grail antioxidant.

So, I went ahead and got myself one of the most affordable and popular over the counter (OTC) Retinoids. However, before I dive into my experience with The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane let’s get some back story for the newbies in the house.

What is Retinol?

Retinol—alongside other retinoids, such as retinoic acid and retinyl palmitate—is essentially a derivative of vitamin A. It is one of the body’s key nutrients for boosting cell turnover. It also works to decrease oil production and increase collagen synthesis.

How does it work?

Who can use Retinol?

Retinol can be used by all skin types and complexion. However, people with sensitive skin should be extra cautious as it may be harder for them to adjust to the potent ingredient.

When can I start using it?

Thirty years has long been the banner year for introducing retinol into one’s routine because collagen production starts to deplete at this age. However, motivated by early signs of aging many women in their twenties are incorporating it into their routine. If you’re 25 years and above you can totally add this to your routine.

How much do I need?

Retinol can be very irritating if used too frequently or if the formulation is too strong for your skin. Dermatologists recommend starting off with a pea-sized amount of a low percentage over-the-counter formula (.01% to 0.03%), and using it two times per week, slowly increasing the usage to give the skin a chance to acclimate. A number of brands like Deciem have Retinols available in different strengths. This makes it easy to work your way up from low to higher concentrations.

Who should avoid Retinol?

If your skin has been over-exfoliated or experienced sun damage avoid using Retinol. It should also be noted that pregnant women should not use retinol.

Which step of my skincare routine should I apply Retinol?

This depends on the type of Retinol product and the number of steps you have in your routine. Ideally, treatments should be applied after cleansing and toning and before moisturizers.

READ ALSO –Here’s What I Think About Deciem’s The Ordinary Skincare

When is the best time to use Retinol?

Retinol is best used at night because it can make your skin sensitive to the sun. However, recent studies have revealed that one can use some Retinoids during the day with proper sun protection of course. However, I’d advise you stick to the PM rule majorly because skincare products work best at night – the time when your skin works to repair itself.

Can I mix it with other active ingredients?

Retinol can be combined with other products, to encourage cell rejuvenation, revitalizing the topical skin layer while improving collagen production, like Vitamin C, Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Alpha and Beta hydroxy acids (AHAs and BHAs).

However, if your skin is sensitive, it’s best not to combine it with other potentially irritating ingredients, such as vitamin C or alpha or beta hydroxy acids. The best thing you can use in conjunction with Retinol is a moisturizer, which can help hydrate and prime the skin and reduce the risk of irritation.

Retinol in itself does not cause sun sensitivity. However, skin irritation can occur within initial uses which can be exacerbated by excessive sun exposure. Hence, sun protection is particularly important when using retinoids.

Wear Sunscreen People!

RELATED – I’m A Black Person Do I Really Need Sunscreen?

My Experience With The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane – An In-depth Review

Product name -The Ordinary Retinol 0.2 in Squalane

Product type – Oil-based Retinol serum.

*Note: Retinoids are also available in gel and cream form.

Size – 30ml

Packaging – Amber colored UV protective bottle with a glass dropper

Price – $7.00 on the Deciem website / ₦3,080 (I used ₦460 as the exchange rate)

Ingredients – Squalane, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Retinol, Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato) Fruit Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone, BHT.

My Thoughts

I chose The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane because it’s one of the super affordable OTC (over the counter) Retinols. It is a highly-stable, water-free Solution of 0.2% Pure Retinol and it contains Squalane and Jojoba oil which helps to moisturize the skin and are also rich in antioxidants. I have been using it in my PM routine for about a year and I’m happy to say it’s been a glowing experience.

When I started out I experienced some skin dryness and peeling which is one of the side effects but this was not for long. With continuous use, your skin adjusts to the ingredient. Take note that some skin types just can’t deal with Retinol. If you fall under this category I’ll suggest you opt for Bakuchiol – a natural alternative to Retinol.

Read more about Bakuchiol HERE.

It takes a while to see the effects of Retinoids (about 12 weeks) especially if it’s an OTC (over the counter) product. However, after a long time, I can evidently see results. My sebum production is under control and forehead acne is a thing of the past. My skin is also brighter and more supple.

I recently switched to a higher strength (1%) of Retinol also from The Ordinary and it’s pretty much being the same experience. No irritation, no skin purging, and no dryness. It is safe to say that my skin has adjusted to this ingredient.

The Ordinary has about six different Retinoids so you have a wide range of options. There are other brands that have great Retinol products the likes of  The Inkey List, Revolution Skincare, Glow Recipe, Paula’s Choice , Neutrogena and lots more.

Ever heard of Retinol? 

Do you use it in your skincare routine? If yes, share your experience and the product used.

I’d love to read from you.

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