We’re not saying it is the magic elixir but it does come pretty close. Retinol is a derivative from the vitamin A family, and just like vitamin C, it’s a powerful antioxidant that addresses hyperpigmentation, noticeable lines, uneven skin texture, sun damage and enlarged pores.
When applied topically, retinol converts into its acidic form (retinoic acid) to do its magic. Unlike the other actives that exfoliate on the surface, it dives deep into the skin to regulate skin cell turnover and encourage collagen production.
And by breaking down the bond of dead skin cells, Retinol unclogs the pores and eliminates bacteria – so, say "bye-bye, acne!".
As much as we love our retinol, we know that it’s one of the trickiest ingredients to introduce to our skincare routine as side effects like redness, dryness and peeling may follow the skin renewal. And the delicate newly developed skin will also increase sensitivity to the sun. However, thanks to the relentless efforts of our favourite beauty houses, advanced retinol formulas are making their way to us, and all skin types are welcome to join the club!
Here we list down our favourite picks to introduce retinol to your skincare routine:
DRUNK ELEPHANT A-GLOEI™ MARETINOL OIL
As someone with sensitive skin that reacts to active ingredients unpredictably, I always count on Drunk Elephant for that gentle-but-hard-working formula, and their newest A Gloei Maretinol Oil with 0.5% vegan retinol (half the concentration used for the A-Passioni™ Retinol Cream) once again lives up to the standard.
It stays true to a simple formula to reveal smoother, glowing skin. DE’s proudest antioxidant and omega-rich virgin marula oil makes up 95% of the formula to gently deliver the retinol to the skin, enriched by 4.5% ceramides to replenish moisture and strengthen the skin barrier.
KIEHL’S RETINOL SKIN-RENEWING DAILY MICRO-DOSE SERUM
Formulated with a promising dose of 0.1% pure retinol, this serum takes its cue from the science of microdosing to slowly yet precisely introduce retinol to your skin.
Other hero ingredients include ceramides and peptides to further sustain the repair benefits and ensure the fresh new cells are well guarded. Team it up with the cult-favourite Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution, you will start waking up to smoother and more even-toned skin.
DR DENNIS GROSS ADVANCED RETINOL + FERULIC TEXTURE RENEWAL SERUM
This serum gets its complexion refining and collagen building powers from a cocktail of superior antioxidants: retinol, ferulic and bakuchiol - the latter two being helpful ingredients to stabilise retinol, which in turn enhances its strength and minimise irritation.
You get the benefit of hydration too, thanks to the sugarcane-derived squalene and hyaluronic acid in the formula.
If you’re already a fan of Dr Dennis Gross’ Alpha Beta® Daily Peel, then this serum will be a no-brainer addition to your routine to amp up that glow-from-within.
REN BIO RETINOID™ YOUTH SERUM
If 2018 was the year of bakuchiol, then 2022 is the year Bidens Pilosa coming at us in full speed. This plant-derived alternative to retinol leads the charge in Ren’s latest Bio retinoid™ Youth Serum to help diminish fine lines and improve firmness.
Designed with drier and compromised skin in mind, it also contains ceramides and the all-skin-favourite niacinamide to strengthen the skin barrier and deliver a radiance and hydration boost.
