Retin-a cream is a powerful skincare ingredient that can reduce fine lines and wrinkles, limit discolouration and improve the appearance of stretch marks. But it can cause side effects like dry skin and irritation so it’s important to understand how to use it properly.
Designed with sensitive skin in mind, this minimalist formula contains 0.3% retinol and is free from the ‘suspicious 6’ (fragrance, SLS, drying alcohols, essential oils and chemical screens). Plus it works wonders on acne scarring too.
1. La Roche-Posay Retinol Booster
Using the power of pure Vitamin A and a boosting complex, this La Roche-Posay serum reduces the look of fine lines and wrinkles (especially those pesky crow’s feet) while brightening and smoothing skin tone. It also reduces pigmentation and helps improve the appearance of enlarged pores. The formula also includes adenosine, which works as an anti-aging ingredient by stimulating the production of collagen. It also contains humectants and emollients to soften and condition skin.
This product is suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin, as it has been formulated with 0.1% pure retinol and a boosting complex containing retinyl linoleate and lipo-hydroxy acid to enhance penetration and accelerate cell turnover. It also contains glycerin, which is a great humectant to keep skin hydrated. It has a light, fast-absorbing water gel texture that leaves the complexion visibly smoother and renewed. It also helps reduce the appearance of deep wrinkles and premature dark spots. It also doesn’t contain denatured alcohol or fragrance, which are a common cause of irritation for many people.
2. A* Formulas Retinol Serum
Retinols are the skincare ingredient that’s rightfully celebrated for tackling a raft of anti-ageing concerns, from fine lines and wrinkles to hyperpigmentation and blemishes. This serum’s lab-made Vitamin A derivative, which gradually converts into retinoic acid, helps to smooth skin, reduce fine lines and dark spots as it unclogs pores and boosts collagen production. It’s also enriched with nourishing Jojoba Oil and Vitamin E to hydrate and calm the complexion.
The ideal starting point for those new to retinol, this formula delivers the benefits of a prescription-strength product without the irritation that can come with it. This time-release formula is enriched with 0.2375% of microencapsulated retinol and combines it with soothing and replenishing botanical oils including Apricot Kernel, Argan, Sunflower Seed, Rose Canina and Sweet Almond. The calming oil blend supports the skin barrier and a combination of gentle AHA’s from fruit extracts and plant extracts help to improve mitosis, restore elasticity and normalise your skins cellular renewal process.
3. Paula’s Choice Retinol Booster
Retinol is a cult-classic skincare ingredient that encourages cell turnover, fades dark spots, smoothes wrinkles and treats acne. But it’s finicky AF – if you use too much, too soon, it can lead to red, flaky skin. That’s why it’s important to find a retinol product that works for your skin type and needs.
This Paula’s Choice product delivers a concentrated 1% level of retinol in a light fluid lotion texture that helps even skin tone, renew radiance, brighten skin and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also contains peptides that firm the skin and antioxidants that protect against free radical damage.
It can be mixed with your favourite serum or moisturiser in the morning or evening and is suitable for all skin types. Fragrance-free, colourant-free and cruelty-free.
4. The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid
The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid is a gentler option than the other more potent retinol serums on the market and works better in tandem with hydrating and antioxidant ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides. It’s also a lighter formula, which makes it easier to use and more compatible with a multi-step skin care routine.
The lightweight serum delivers all the benefits of retinol (now called ‘novel retinoid’), which is known to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve pigment problems, soften pores and give skin a more youthful appearance. It also stimulates cell proliferation to help restore thickness to skin that becomes thinner with age, thereby reducing the appearance of dark spots and wrinkles.
The serum features a 2% concentration of novel retinoid active and is housed in a nourishing squalane base. It’s recommended to apply it at night and to avoid unprotected sun exposure as retinoids can make the skin sensitive. It’s best used after water-based serums but before heavier treatment products. retin a cream uk
