Many of our customers use both Vitamin C Serum & Retinol in their beauty arsenal to tackle the signs of aging. We thought it best to provide a little background on Retinol & how to use Vitamin C Serum & Vitamin A together.
What is Retinol?
Retinoid is Vitamin A. Vitamin A is known to unclog pores, stimulate collagen production thus reducing fine lines & wrinkles, & smooth skin. 40 years ago the FDA cleared the first prescription retinoid called Tretinoin. It was given to acne patients, but dermatologist soon saw the beautifying effects it could have on aging skin.
There are 3 prescription-strength Retinoids: Tretinoin, Tazarotene, and Adapalene. With that being said, you do not need to visit a dermatologist or get a prescription to get similar benefits as Retinoid.
An over-the-counter Retinoid is called Retinol. It is typically less potent than the prescriptions but much more affordable depending on your health care insurance.
Will My Skin Look Better Instantly?
We wish, right? In some cases skin can look worse before it starts to get better. Keep in mind that Retinol is powerful, and should be introduced in your skin care routine gradually. It is recommended that for the first two weeks, apply a Retinol every third night. If your skin doesn’t get dry, red, or flaky…start treatments every other night.
Did You Notice…Application is Recommended at Night?
The ingredient in Retinol is sensitive to the light and should be applied at night before bed. Remember that Retinol is regenerating new skin cells often and in the daytime it is important to apply a sunscreen (as you should anyway).
Retinol & Vitamin C Serum
This is where Vitamin C Serum comes into play. If using Retinol, apply Vitamin C Serum in the morning. Vitamin C Serum is rich with antioxidants and will protect your skin from environmental aggressors and free radicals.
Application directions for Vitamin C Serum in the Morning:
- Cleanse & tone skin
- Apply a thin layer of Vitamin C Serum
- Follow with a moisturizer with SPF
Application directions for Retinol in the Evening:
- Cleanse & tone skin
- Wait 15 minutes & apply Retinol
- Follow with a moisturizer
Of course we recommend following the directions of your dermatologist if different from what we shared here. Also, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding stop use of Retinoid & share your skin care routine with your doctor.
Video Review of Day by Day Beauty’s Vitamin C Serum by Lady J (Jackie)
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An anti-aging serum! I love it. Thanks for sharing these skin care tips. I was reading another one of your articles about Vitamin C Serum, and it looks promising. I’m excited to give it a try!
Vitamin C Serum is a wonderful product that provides users so many benefits – not just anti-aging. I am so glad you hear you are ready to give it a try!
Thank you for your informative article. I have been using Retin A for the past 2 year and I have beautiful skin for a 62 yr old woman. I get compliments from men and women all the time. I surely recommend it.
Thank you very much for this information. I am a regular follower of all your articles which are very informative. Thanks for such a good article on retinol. please update more.