Retinol

Choose a formula adapted to your experience

To start, look for a low-dose retinol formula with clear directions for use. The highest percentage is not an objective: a product that you can use regularly is more interesting than a treatment that forces you to stop constantly. Introduce only one new product at a time. If your skin is already irritated, very reactive or prone to rosacea, seek advice before adding this active ingredient.

The Geek & Gorgeous A-Game 20 serum associated with this item contains 0.2% retinal. The brand reserves it for experienced users and offers lower dosages to start. It may therefore be of interest to a person who already tolerates retinoids, but it is not a formula for beginners. Retinal and retinol are not directly comparable in percentage: 0.2% of one does not correspond to 0.2% of the other.

Keep a simple gesture in the evening

Clean the face, dry it and apply a small amount in a thin layer, according to the instructions for your treatment. For many formulas, the equivalent of a pea is enough for the entire face; adding more especially increases the risk of irritation. Avoid lips, damaged areas and eyelids if the product is not intended for them. The neck also deserves a gradual introduction, because it may tolerate treatment less well.

Finish with your usual moisturizer. If your skin reacts easily, a layer of cream before the retinoid can also help to tolerate it better; adapt this order to the product instructions or your dermatologist. For A-Game 20, the brand recommends a pea-sized amount in the evening, followed by moisturizer. The objective is to maintain comfortable skin the next day, without burning or marked tightness.

Space out the first applications

One or two evenings per week is a starting point, to be adapted to the chosen formula. Keep this pace while you see how the skin reacts, then gradually increase if all is well. For A-Game 20, the manufacturer offers two weeks at this rate before a possible increase. You don't have to reach for daily application: stick to a frequency that your skin actually tolerates.

At first, leave aside scrubs and exfoliating acids retinol evenings. You can re-evaluate their interest when the routine is well tolerated, but they are not essential. If you use vitamin C, putting it in the morning and saving the retinol for the evening simplifies things. Avoid adding a cosmetic retinoid to a dermatological treatment in the same family without the advice of the prescriber.

Protect the skin and observe without hurrying

In the morning, bring at least broad-spectrum SPF 30 sun protection, accompanied by shade and clothing appropriate to the exposure conditions. A treatment intended to improve sun signs has little meaning if the skin continues to accumulate its effects. Also keep the bottle closed, away from heat and light, and respect its duration of use after opening.

Compare your skin after several months, with photos taken in similar light rather than changing products every week. A cream can quickly soften the surface; retinoid-related changes take longer. If the skin burns, becomes very red or peels a lot, take a break and simplify care. A significant or persistent reaction merits medical advice: it does not prove that the product works better.

Know When to Avoid Retinoids

Do not use retinol or retinal during pregnancy or if you plan to become pregnant. When breastfeeding, seek medical advice before starting again. If you discover a pregnancy while using a treatment, stop it and report the product to the professional caring for you; he will be able to assess the situation without confusing skin exposure with taking an oral retinoid medication.