Retinol
Retinol requires two enzymatic conversion steps to become active retinoic acid; retinal needs only one, so it acts faster. Targets wrinkles, texture and photoaging. Avoid during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and never combine with pure vitamin C, benzoyl peroxide or AHA/BHA in the same evening. Always pair with sun protection the next day.
How to choose
For skin new to retinoids, start with a low concentration (0.1 to 0.15%) in a cream texture rich in panthenol or centella, two to three evenings a week for the first fortnight, then increase the frequency as tolerated. For skin already used to it, a retinol serum paired with peptides speeds up the work on firmness. Encapsulated retinol (liposomes) limits irritation without changing the mechanism. Mild redness and flaking in the first weeks are expected; burning or swelling are not.
Pair it with
Browse our signs of aging selection, our peptide products for skin that cannot tolerate retinol, and our Korean SPF sunscreens, essential the next morning.
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