6 Products 6 products found
Acne Complex
Oily + Blemish-Prone Skin TSA Approved
Radical Night Repair
All Skin Types Anti-Aging TSA Approved
Wrinkle + Texture Repair
All Skin Types Anti-Aging TSA Approved
Retinol Skin Brightener 1%
All Skin Types Brightening AM or PM
Retinol Skin Brightener 0.5%
AM or PM All Skin Types Brightening
Retinol Skin Brightener 0.25%
AM or PM All Skin Types Brightening
Retinol skincare FAQs
Retinol is a potent form of vitamin A and a key ingredient that targets visible signs of aging, blemishes and uneven skin tone. It helps promote collagen + elastin production while boosting cell turnover. In turn, this encourages the removal of dead skin cells and helps support damaged skin. As well as a more youthful skin appearance, the complexion looks and feels smoother and firmer.
Retinoids is the broad term for all vitamin A derivatives, whether prescription-strength treatments or over-the-counter solutions.
Retinol, a milder form of retinoid, is typically found in over-the-counter skincare products and is a gentler ingredient. It converts gradually to retinoic acid upon application and is less likely to cause irritation or redness than higher-strength retinoids.
Retinol creams and serums are generally considered a better option for those new to vitamin A or with sensitive skin but it's important to consider your skin type and goals before deciding on the best solution for you.
Retinol skincare can promote a firmer, clearer complexion. It can help:
- Prevent breakouts: This powerful ingredient helps keep pores unclogged, reducing the likelihood of breakouts.
- Support collagen + elastin production: By promoting healthy collagen + elastin, retinol helps firm and plump the skin, reducing sagging and contributing to a youthful look.
- Smooth fine lines + wrinkles: Known for its ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines, retinol serums restore a youthful radiance by promoting smoother skin.
- Improve skin texture: Retinol's exfoliating properties help refine rough, uneven skin, leaving it feeling soft and revitalized.
- Even out skin tone: Whether you're dealing with age spots, sun damage or blemish scars, it works to fade discoloration, revealing a more uniform skin tone.
Retinol products work to prevent the build-up of dead skin cells that can clog pores and can minimize the formation of pimples and blackheads. Alongside balancing sebum production, this helps keep pores clear and reduces the chances of new breakouts forming. Retinol face creams also accelerate cell turnover, resulting in the fading of blemish scars.
While there are multiple benefits for most skin types, it's important to introduce retinol gradually into your routine, as it can cause some initial dryness, redness or irritation, especially if you have sensitive skin. Over time, as your skin adapts, you will likely notice an overall improvement in skin texture.
There's no exact age when you should begin using retinol as it really depends on your skin's needs and what you're hoping to achieve.
If you're looking to prevent early signs of aging, starting retinol in your mid-20s to early 30s can be beneficial, as this is when your skin's natural collagen production begins to slow. Adding a retinol serum to your routine at this stage can help maintain a youthful appearance and minimize the development of fine lines and wrinkles.
You might consider introducing retinol in your late teens or early 20s if you're prone to breakouts and blemishes, but it's never too late to begin using this ingredient.
If you're unsure about the right time to start or how to incorporate retinol into your skincare, it's always a good idea to seek advice from a dermatologist.
Using retinol cream daily can be beneficial but it's important to consider your skin type, how long you've been using it, and your skin's ability to tolerate the ingredient.
For those new to retinol, it's best to start with 2-3 applications per week to allow your skin to adjust. As your skin becomes more accustomed to it, you can gradually increase the frequency to every other day—and eventually nightly, if your skin responds well.
While daily use can yield great results, such as minimizing fine lines, enhancing skin texture, and helping with breakouts, it's essential to be mindful of your skin's needs. If irritation or dryness occurs, reduce the frequency to avoid overloading your skin.
Since retinol products can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, it's a good idea to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day to safeguard your skin from UV damage. Additionally, using retinol alongside a good hydrator will help keep your skin moisturized and prevent dryness.
When using retinol in skincare, there are a few ingredients you should be cautious about mixing, as they can increase irritation or decrease the effectiveness of your skincare routine. Here's what to keep in mind:
- Vitamin C: While both retinol and vitamin C are powerful ingredients, they work best at different pH levels. Vitamin C, being acidic, works best in a low-pH environment, whereas retinol requires a slightly higher pH to be effective. Combining the two can potentially irritate the skin, so it's generally recommended to use them at different times of the day—vitamin C products in the morning and retinol creams at night.
- Salicylic acid: Salicylic acid, a BHA, is another exfoliant, and using it in combination with retinol can increase irritation and dryness. Both ingredients promote skin cell turnover, so using them together may lead to overly sensitive skin. It's best to alternate their use or apply them on different days to avoid excessive irritation.
Some ingredients work well with retinol, so it's generally safe to use alongside the following:
- Hyaluronic acid: This helps to hydrate and lock in moisture, which can counteract the drying effects of retinol products. If your skin is prone to dryness or irritation from retinol, hyaluronic acid can help maintain your skin's moisture balance.
- Niacinamide: A soothing and anti-inflammatory agent, this helps to calm any irritation that may occur. It also helps to improve the skin barrier, making it a great complement to retinol's effects.
Find retinol products from ZO® Skin Health
Improve your skin's texture and enjoy a youthful-looking complexion with retinol creams and serums from ZO® Skin Health. Our professional-grade skincare products work to smooth fine lines, enhance skin texture, and promote a more even skin tone.
For advice on our products or support finding the right skincare regimen for your skin type, get in touch with our ZO® Skincare Specialists.
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