Retinol is one of the most powerful ingredients for improving skin texture, reducing fine lines, and tackling pigmentation, but it can be a little tricky to get right. If you’ve used retinol in the past and didn’t see the results you expected, here are some key reasons why that might have happened:
1. How potent is your retinol?
If the product you were using didn't specify the concentration of retinol, one way to estimate its strength is by looking at how often it’s recommended to be used. Products designed for daily use tend to have a lower concentration, which is gentler but may take longer to show results. Stronger retinols, including those that use encapsulation technology for slow release, are typically applied just 2-3 times a week. If your retinol was a daily formula, its effects might have been more gradual and subtle.
2. Were you consistent with your use?
Consistency is key with retinol. It works by increasing cell turnover, which means replacing old, dead skin cells with fresh new ones. This process takes time, so you need to use it regularly—at least twice a week—for a minimum of 8 weeks to start seeing visible improvements. Many people give up too early, but retinol really shines with long-term use, so sticking with it is crucial.
3. Did you experience irritation?
A common reason people stop using retinol or feel it isn’t working is due to irritation. Retinol, especially stronger formulas, can cause dryness, redness, peeling, and sensitivity, particularly when you first start using it. This irritation can lead some to use it less often or stop altogether. It’s important to start slow, applying it just 1-2 times a week at first, and gradually increasing frequency as your skin adjusts. If you experience irritation, using a good moisturiser to support your skin barrier and help your skin tolerate retinol is essential.
4. Did you use SPF daily?
This is one of the most important factors in making retinol effective! Retinol increases your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, making it more prone to damage. If you're not using SPF consistently while on retinol, you can actually make your skin worse by allowing UV rays to cause more pigmentation, redness, and fine lines. Sun damage can undo all the benefits retinol is meant to provide, so it’s crucial to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning, even on cloudy days, to protect your skin and help the retinol work its magic.
5. Were you using the right products alongside retinol?
Retinol can make your skin more vulnerable, so it’s important to use hydrating and soothing products to maintain your skin barrier. Using gentle cleansers, moisturisers, and even hydrating serums with ingredients like hyaluronic acid can help minimise any dryness or irritation caused by retinol. Without proper hydration, your skin might become too dry and sensitive, making it harder to continue with regular retinol use.
At Nip+Fab, we’re completely transparent about the percentage of retinol in our products, so you know exactly what you're using. Our Retinol Fix range uses encapsulation technology, which ensures the retinol is released slowly into the skin. This gradual release makes it more tolerable, reducing the risk of irritation and allowing you to use it more frequently for better results. It’s a great option whether you’re new to retinol or looking for something powerful but easy to incorporate into your routine.
