We’re taking you to skin school, giving you the low down on retinol & help choosing the right products for your unique skin goals
This article is sponsored by Nip + Fab, Olay, Avène, Kiehls, Pixi, Boots Ingredients & No7
Enter, retinol. Renowned for its anti-ageing properties and a staple in the skincare routines of dermatologists, beauty gurus and skinfluencers alike. But what exactly is this ingredient that’s got us all talking? And with so many retinol products on the market, how do you find the right one for you?
When you take a walk down the skincare aisle, you may have noticed that retinol comes in a variety of different strengths and formulations. So, it’s no surprise that you’re left scratching your head when it comes to choosing the right product.
That’s why we’ve handpicked a selection of retinol role models to give you some well-needed inspiration. Not only is there something for every skin type, but also products that are kinder to our beauty budget too.
Before we dive in, let’s start by taking a glance at the retinol rulebook to find out more information about what it is and how to use it.
What is retinol?
An ingredient that needs no introduction (well, maybe a little one). Retinol is a form of vitamin A. Although vitamin A is powerful, retinol is gentler on the skin as it contains a lower concentration of the active ingredient. So, it’s not so ‘scary’ after all (we know you’ve heard the rumours).
Retinol has quickly become a rising star ingredient in the skincare world. You can find it in serums, night creams, eye creams – the list goes on. It’s primarily used to promote skin renewal and collagen production which results in a whole host of skin-credible benefits. primarily used to promote skin renewal and collagen production which results in a whole host of skin-credible benefits.
Not only can it help improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles but it can also be used to address unique skin concerns such as pigmentation.
How do I pick the right retinol products for me?
It’s all about knowing your skin type and condition. Oily, dry, combination – it can all be a little overwhelming. If you don’t know where to start, check out our ultimate guide to every skin type.
Once you’ve determined your skin type and condition, you can start to shop around for the retinol products most suited to you.
How do I use retinol?
The good news is that introducing retinol into your skincare routine needn’t be a challenge. If you’re a first-time user, we recommend conducting a patch test before you dive in head first. Apply a small amount of product to your skin and wait for at least 24 hours. If your skin shows no signs of a reaction such as swelling, redness or itching, you can start to take the first steps on your retinol journey.
When it comes to using retinol, every product is different. The general rule of thumb is to start slow and build up your skin’s tolerance. Apply a thin layer to cleansed skin and finish with your facial moisturiser. Start by using retinol once or twice a week. This gives you an opportunity to see how your skin reacts. Gradually, you can work up to every other day or three times a week.
SPF is also important. Retinol can enhance your skins sensitivity to UV rays, which is why it’s recommended that you incorporate it into your evening skincare routine. If you apply retinol at night, you need to include an SPF as part of your morning skincare ritual. We recommend an SPF of 30 or higher to give you some much-needed protection. Need some help? Take a look at our guide to facial SPFs.
7 of the best retinol serums & products available at Boots
Let’s cut to the retinol chase. Whether you’re a first-timer looking to dip your toe in the retinol pool, or you’re looking for that holy grail product to address your unique skin concerns, here are seven of the best retinol serums and products we’re loving right now.
To target signs of ageing
Try: Nip+Fab Retinol Fix Concentrate Extreme 10%
• Size: 30ml
• 0.3% encapsulated pure retinol
Start every morning by putting your best face forward. This bestseller has switched retinyl palmitate to encapsulated pure retinol and blended it with a mix of powerhouse ingredients to awaken a youthful glow – you can thank the hydration complex of hyaluronic acid and bisabol for that! For best results, apply the lightweight formula onto cleansed skin two to three evenings per week.
To visibly smooth the skin
Try: Olay Retinol Night Moisturiser
• Size: 50ml
• Fragrance-free
• Suitable for daily use
With skin at its most receptive during the night, this moisturiser enriched with vitamin B3 and retinoid complex is a total no brainer. Designed to support overnight repair, the unique formula gets to work whilst you sleep. The result? Visible improvements in fine lines and wrinkles, smoothness, brightness, firming, dark spots and pores. Did we mention it also hydrates skin for up to 24 hours too? It’s time to run to the checkout.
To firm & smooth the appearance of wrinkles
Try: Avene Multi-Intensive Night Cream
• Size: 40ml
• Suitable for sensitive skin
Avène are here to make your complexion dreams come true with their Multi-Intensive Night Cream. The formula acts on both the causes and signs of skin ageing* with a unique blend of retinal, pure hyaluronic acid, haritaki extract and niacinamide. No, that’s not a typo, this formula really does contain retinal (not retinol). The difference? The speed in which they yield results. Retinal has a higher exfoliation rate, giving the cream a texture that boasts comfortability without an oily finish in sight.
To promote skin cell renewal
Try: Kiehl’s Retinol Skin-Renewing Daily Micro-Dose Serum
• Size: 50ml
• Suitable for all skin types
Perfect for the first-time retinol users out there, this skin-renewing serum from Kiehl’s is the total package. A daily-strength micro-dose of pure retinol teams up with peptide and ceramides to promote surface skin cell turnover. So, what does that mean for your complexion? An improvement in the look of skin texture and reduction in the appearance of fine lines. All whilst mitigating discomforting side effects. Result!
To rejuvenate for a youthful glow
Try: PIXI Retinol Tonic
• Size: 250ml
• Suitable for all skin types
• Paraben-free
This multi-action treatment with time-release retinol replenishes skin with potent antioxidants and fresh botanicals. The formula helps rejuvenate the skin for a natural glow, smoothing and softening the skin’s appearance whilst soothing sensitivity. Time-release retinol helps reduce the appearance of fine lines whilst smoothing your complexion, peptides firm the skin and promote collagen production and jasmine flower balances the skin – perfection!
To brighten tired eyes
Try: Boots Ingredients Retinol Eye Cream
• Size: 15ml
• Vegan**
Can’t use retinol around your eyes? Consider this myth debunked. Although retinol is notoriously known as a powerful ingredient, there’s no reason why it can’t be used around your eyes (with care, of course). We love this handy eye cream from Boots Ingredients that helps skin feel more elastic. Use your fingers to gently tap this lightweight cream around your eyes until absorbed. We recommend using this one in the evenings only.
To protect hands from dryness
Try: No7 Pure Retinol Hand Cream
• Size: 75ml
• Fragrance-free
Retinol – No7 know it like the back of their hand. This pure retinol hand cream not only delivers up to eight hours of hydration but has also been proven to reduce the appearance of seven key signs of ageing. Pigmentation, fine lines and uneven skin tones are among some of the signs this formula targets, all whilst protecting the hands from dryness too. We love how quickly this hand cream absorbs and paired with a non-greasy consistency, it’s a total dream.
Want to explore more retinol holy grails? Shop more retinol products in our full range.
