Retinol is one of the most powerful ingredients in skincare—and for good reason. Backed by decades of research, it’s known for its ability to visibly reduce signs of ageing, improve skin texture, and even out tone. But with great power comes great responsibility: using retinol correctly is key to getting results without irritation.
Here’s your go-to guide to understanding retinol and how to use it effectively.
What is Retinol?
Retinol is a form of Vitamin A that speeds up cell turnover and boosts collagen production. It helps:
- Smooth fine lines and wrinkles
- Refine skin texture
- Brighten uneven skin tone
- Clear congestion and minimise breakouts
How to Introduce Retinol into Your Routine
Retinol is potent, so it’s important to ease it into your skincare routine gradually:
- Start slow: Use 2–3 times per week in the evening for the first 2–3 weeks.
- Build up: If your skin tolerates it well, increase to every other night, then nightly.
- Use SPF daily: Retinol can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so a broad-spectrum SPF is essential.
- Avoid layering with exfoliants: Don’t use retinol on the same night as AHAs, BHAs, or scrubs to avoid over-exfoliation.
- Apply to dry skin: After cleansing, wait until your skin is completely dry before applying retinol to reduce the risk of irritation.
Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum
This high-performance serum is ideal for those looking to tackle multiple signs of ageing at once. It features a 3.5% Retinoid Complex, including:
- Retinol and Granactive Retinoid for visible wrinkle reduction
- Squalane to support the skin barrier and lock in moisture
- Beta-Glucan to soothe and hydrate
It’s designed for daily use and delivers visible results without the typical redness or flaking associated with traditional retinol products.
Retinol Clearing Oil
Perfect for breakout-prone, ageing skin, this dual-phase oil combines:
- Retinol to smooth fine lines and improve skin texture
- Salicylic Acid to clear pores and reduce breakouts
- Argan, Rosehip and Golden Jojoba Oils to nourish and calm the skin
Use it at night after cleansing and before moisturiser. Shake well before use to blend the oil and active layers.
Can Sensitive Skin Use Retinol?
Yes—if introduced slowly and paired with barrier-supporting ingredients. Both of Dermalogica’s retinol formulas are designed to minimise irritation while delivering results. If you’re new to retinol or have sensitive skin, start with a patch test and follow with a rich moisturiser.
Final Tips
- Always apply retinol at night.
- Use a pea-sized amount for the entire face.
- Avoid the eye area unless using a product specifically formulated for it.
- Be patient—visible results can take 4–12 weeks.
Ready to try retinol? Whether you’re targeting fine lines, breakouts, or dullness, Dermalogica’s advanced formulas make it easy to get results without compromise.