Are you considering increasing the strength of your retinol but are unsure about what changes to expect and how they might affect your skin? When upgrading from our Beginner Retinol Gel, 0.1%, our goal is to ensure you feel confident and prepared when you’re ready to take things up a notch.
In this blog we’ll give you a better idea of what happens when you upgrade our new Advanced Retinol Gel, 0.5%, that is made with an increased percent of our Tri-Retinoid Comfort Complex™ and proven to deliver powerful results with increased comfort. Let’s get started on your level up journey!
Understanding Retinol and Its Benefits
Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, is best known for its benefits for aging and acne-prone skin. Retinol is the gold-standard ingredient for speeding up skin cell turnover, which helps your skin shed old, dull cells and replace them with fresh ones. The result? A smoother, more radiant complexion with fewer fine lines and wrinkles. Additionally, it promotes the production of collagen, a protein that keeps your skin bouncy, firm, and healthy.
Why Upgrade to Something Stronger?
If you are already an experienced retinol user, upgrading to a stronger retinol like our 0.5% version can help take your results to the next level. Keep in mind, with an increased percentage of our Tri-Retinoid Comfort Complex™, there's a higher chance of irritation if you don't ease into it at your own pace.
Retinol Upgrade Checklist
Step 1: Check if Your Skin’s Ready
Before making the switch, ensure your skin has adapted well to the beginner retinol formula without experiencing excessive dryness, redness, or irritation. If your skin is happiest at a lower concentration, it may be beneficial to continue using it! Remember, there's no set timeline for transitioning to a stronger percentage, and if the beginner retinol gel is meeting your skin needs, there's no need to switch.
Step 2: Take it Slow
Start by incorporating Advanced Retinol Gel, 0.5% into your routine slowly. Begin 2-3 times per week and gradually increase the frequency to nightly, as your skin builds tolerance.
Kind Skincare Tip: you can use 2-3 drops of Ceramide Barrier Serum before applying Advanced Retinol Gel 0.5% for added comfort!
Step 3: Moisturize and Protect
To maximize hydration and mitigate potential irritation, consider applying products like our Ceramide Barrier Serum and Resurrection Polypeptide Cream. During the day, always protect your skin with SPF.
Step 4: Monitor Your Skin’s Reaction
Pay close attention to how your skin reacts to the higher concentration. Any side effects like redness or dryness should subside as your skin adjusts. If you experience severe irritation, peeling, or discomfort, reduce the frequency of use or revert to the lower concentration.
Tips for Success
- Patch Test: Always perform a patch test before introducing a new retinol product to ensure your skin does not have an adverse reaction.
- Avoid Harsh Ingredients: Refrain from using other potentially irritating ingredients such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), or other strong exfoliants with retinol until your skin has fully adapted.
Transitioning from our Beginner Retinol Gel 0.1% to Advanced Retinol Gel 0.5% can be a game-changer for your skincare routine, delivering powerful results for a smoother, more radiant complexion with fewer fine lines and wrinkles. By following a mindful approach, you can maximize the benefits of our advanced retinol while minimizing the risk of irritation, paving the way for healthier, glowy skin.