Retinol is a form of retinoid, which is part of the Vitamin A family, whose action is well-established. It stands out from other similar active ingredients, such as peptides,due to its effectiveness and versatility. Although Vitamin A is naturally produced by the body and is essential for cell development, it has been established that its topical application helps to maintain the integrity of the skin.
In practical terms, this molecule stimulates the natural production of collagen, hyaluronic acid, and elastin, which contribute to maintaining the skin's structure. It regulates the activity of melanocytes responsible for pigmentation, accelerates the renewal of surface cells, and controls sebum production by reducing the size and secretion of sebaceous glands. Consequently, it visibly improves the appearance of wrinkles, skin tone uniformity, skin texture, as well as its firmness and density, by working both on the surface and in depth.
However, the retinol can cause skin discomforts, the most common of which are tightness, slight redness, dryness, flaking, and more sensitive skin, temporary effects that can occur when you start using retinol-concentrated skincare. However, these effects generally disappear once the skin has adapted and better tolerates the active ingredient (retinization period). This time varies from one person to another, depending on your skin type, the concentration of retinol used, and your current skincare routine. According to clinical studies, it would be about 2 to 3 weeks.
Why does retinol irritate the skin? Retinol performs a function similar to exfoliation, meaning it removes dead cells on the surface to generate new ones by activating cellular renewal, but it is not an exfoliant per se. This process tends to dry out the skin since the cellular renewal is faster, making it hypersensitive. However, after several weeks, the skin should have had time to adjust.
However, in cases of intense and prolonged irritation, burning sensation, or more severe rashes, stop using retinol and consult a doctor. These signs likely indicate that you are not tolerating retinol or that your skin is too sensitive for this active ingredient.