Are you even a skincare fanatic if you aren’t using retinoid products? Even though these have a host of benefits like reducing early signs of ageing, enhancing the skin’s glow, and improving texture, there are so many people who stay away from these actives because they don’t know enough about them. Hence, they are often underutilised and even misused.
With plenty of false information available, we thought it would be helpful if we separate the myths from facts and tell you only the truth about retinoids.
It’s 2021 And These Retinoid Myths Are Finally Cancelled
All Retinoids Are The Same
Uhh nope. Retinoids is the umbrella term used for all retinol products and each has a different composition and use. For example, retinoic acid is the active form that vitamin A breaks down into so that it can be utilised by the skin. It helps in collagen production, reducing hyperpigmentation and rejuvenating skin cells. Whereas Retin-A is known for its anti-ageing properties and acne combating benefits.
Retinoids Are Only For The Face
Stop doing this right freakin’ now. When you’re applying retinoids to your face take the product down to the neck and decolletage area too. This is especially true for the ones with youth-enhancing benefits. We suggest using some ceremide-infused moisturiser there to deal with lines and wrinkles.
They Work Because Of Their Exfoliating Benefits
Yes, there is significant peeling and redness after using some retinoids but that’s not why they work. They actually work at a cellular level to improve collagen levels in the skin, reduce pigmentation and even out skin texture.
Changes In Your Skin Start Showing Up In Six Weeks After Using Retinoids
Again a big no. While we wish this was the case, skincare ingredients take time to work on your skin. You need to apply retinoids for at least twelve weeks to see noticeable changes. So, patience and consistency are key here.
You Should Only Use Retinoids At Night
This is a popular misconception but retinoids are perfectly okay to wear during the day as long as you’re layering them with SPF. While retinol does help with making your skin look younger, sunscreen is the true MVP here. So, never skip it.
Stop Using Retinoids If Your Skin Gets Irritated
Many people stop using retinoids because their skin looks red and irritated but we suggest that you fight through this period. Your skin could just be purging or adjusting to the potent ingredient and with long-term usage, it will settle down. Of course, this is only applicable if it’s mild redness and inflammation if it looks really bad, you should stop ASAP.
PSA: Always do a patch test before starting any new retinoid just to be on the safer side.
Wasn’t this a revelation? Tell us which myth did you believe before this.
