Retinols are used in face creams and serums to prevent, reduce, and heal wrinkles and acne. Originally developed as an acne serum for your skin to clear blemishes, another use was found. The skin exfoliant can also be used to diminish the appearance of some wrinkles. It won’t help with any deep set wrinkles, but can reduce and prevent small wrinkles from setting or worsening. Acne can be treated using this as well.
It can be quite harsh on the skin and most people don’t need it everyday, but can be used daily. A low concentration could be used in the beginning while your skin adjusts to the new routine. This is often recommended by most doctors, always confirm with your medical care providers before mixing the product with other chemicals or medications. Do not use it if you have had any kind of chemical or skin peel that would have left your skin barrier compromised.
It is composed of vitamins that absorb into the skin, vitamin B3 is commonly used. Even though you would typically apply it at night, if you don’t wash it off in the morning going out in the sun could be a problem. It should be used with an SPF 30 at least in the morning or when you will be in the sunlight.
Can it be used for acne?
Yes. It was originally developed for acne as stated above, but remains a good treatment for most people. Consult with your dermatologist before use if you have sensitive skin or use another acne product already.
I have used it myself a few times when I get a breakout. Helping me with small blemishes keeps my skin clear and smooth. I don’t use it often and I think this plays into the habit of cycling my skincare routine a bit. Whether I do that from laziness or the recommendation of doctors is unclear to even me. Probably I just forget to do my skincare routine in the evening and end up on a skip day.
How does it help with wrinkles?
It is said to have a long term effect on wrinkles removing small wrinkles entirely and preventing the setting of some deeper ones. This won’t replace botox but it appears to be an effective prevention method. Being considerably cheaper than botox makes it a potentially better option if used before the wrinkles set in.
I have noticed in the eight weeks I have been using it my wrinkles are looking less deep and noticeable. It could be from taking better care of my skin or simply the serum. Either way I am quite pleased with the results and will continue to use it among other products.
How do you use it?
There are various methods to use it and each person has their own way. Overall the consensus seems to be less is more and use a few times a week. Just a drop of a cream or serum and you can easily cover your whole face. You may need to add a moisturiser to your thinner areas first, like under eyes and around your nose and lips. The retinols can be very drying to the skin. So, adding a moisturiser all over your face after is also typically recommended.
Please check with your doctor if you have skin conditions pre existing or are allergic to the ingredients in your serum, they can help find alternatives and give more specific directions. A serum bottle should last you about 3 months, if you use it normally. If you are using too much you will run out faster and possibly cause dryness and irritation on the skin. A little goes a long way.
BethAshlei 
I am 65 and don’t have lots of facial wrinkles but my hands aren’t looking great. Is it good for these types of wrinkles? What is your recommendation for just making the skin look tighter? Would the retinal serum you mentioned work for that? I’d like a few suggestion of brands please.
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