Starting a Retinoid? Read this First!
Tis the Retinol season! Lets get rid of that summer pigmented skin!
If you want to get started with a retinoid, we understand why! This skincare product does it all – from lightening pigmentation, smoothing lines and wrinkles, to preventing acne breakouts. Everyone can benefit!
This product does require a little education and preparation beforehand to get the best results. We’ll get you up to speed on what you need to know before you first apply that retinoid.
What is a Retinoid?
You’ve probably heard the term ‘retinol’ but may not be familiar with the word ‘retinoid.’ Basically – retinol is a type of retinoid. Retinoid is the umbrella term that describes drugs derived from Vitamin A.
Vitamin A is an essential nutrient for healthy skin. This skincare ingredient has been long regarded as one of the best, tried and true, effective skin care ingredients out there!
Retinoids boost your skin cell’s turnover, which sheds your older dull skin and allows new, fresh skin cells to come to the surface. This exfoliation keeps your pores from clogging and causing acne. Retinoids also stimulate the production of collagen and elastin – making your skin stronger and more elastic. This means fewer fine lines and wrinkles! Ultimately, retinoids help you achieve a more youthful, vibrant complexion.
Who Should (And Shouldn’t) Use Retinoids
If you’re interested in reducing acne and signs of skin aging – retinoids are an effective treatment. Retinoids also help lighten dark spots and reduce melasma. The product is deemed safe for all ages and genders.
Skip retinoids if you’re pregnant, lactating, or trying to conceive. If you’re currently experiencing any problems with the skin barrier – like psoriasis or an eczema flare, hold tight. Wait until your skin is healed before starting your retinoid.
Another reason to wait? A big social event. The week before your sister’s wedding is NOT the time to begin your retinoid journey. The side effects, which are totally normal (and necessary), aren't ideal for pictures.
What You Need to Know About Retinoids Before Getting Started
Side Effects:
Retinoids are powerful products that provide results. However, there are normal, anticipated side effects that do happen. Common side effects include redness, mild irritation, dryness, flaking, burning and stinging. With regular product use, your skin will get used to it and the side effects will dissipate.
Use at Night:
Retinoids become less effective when exposed to UV light, so applying before you go to bed helps the product work most effectively.
Prioritize Sun Protection
Retinoids make your skin more sensitive to the sun and increase your likelihood of burning. Be sure to wear SPF daily!
Use a ZO Hydrator
Pairing your retinoid with a moisturizer helps minimize anticipated reactions. A ZO functional hydrator will help!
Use a Pinky Length or 3-4 Pumps
Use just enough to adequately cover your entire face. And don’t just apply to ‘problem’ areas – this product works for both treatment and prevention.
Stay Consistent
It can take several weeks to a few months to see noticeable differences in your skin. I recommend daily use or every other day when getting started. This subsides the anticipated reactions quicker. Kind of like just ripping off that Band-Aid and getting it over with. Check with your provider for the best plan for you.
How Do I Get Started with my Retinoid?
Our favorite skin care line, ZO Skin Health – has several retinol products available in a variety of potencies.
ZO Wrinkle + Texture Repair is a high-potency retinol that visibly improves the appearance of wrinkles, refines skin texture, and restores natural hydration. This retinol contains ZO’s ZCORE complex which helps improve the appearance of visibly sagging skin and ZPRO which upports skin’s natural replenishment of hyaluronic acid.
ZO Retinol Skin Brightener contains Bakuchiol, a plant-derived extract that amplifies retinol to provide maximized brightening + skin tone evening benefits- giving you a brighter, clearer, and smoother complexion. This product is available in a variety of strengths depending on your unique skin needs (we can help you determine which is best to get started with!)
ZO Radical Night Repair will improve the appearance of skin texture, uneven pigmentation, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
Wondering about Tretinoin? This prescription retinoid is not a forever retinol in the ZO skincare realm (dermatologists may disagree with this one). But according to my ZO mentor (Dr. Zein Obagi) it’s sure good for a 3-5 months period!
Ready to get started? Book an appointment today and we can help you determine the right retinol product for your skin!
XO, Lauren