Retinol is known to increase skin cell production, unclog pores, and give the skin a clearer look and feel. I always recommend starting out with a lower dose of retinol like the SkinCeuticals one I linked in this post, but if your skin has used exfoliants before don’t hesitate to try one of the stronger ones linked as well.

Retinol should be used at night, not morning. After cleansing and toning (optional), retinol should come next and be followed by a thick moisturizer. Start with a pea-sized amount for the whole face since it can be powerful and avoid the eye area. We recommend following up with a ceramide moisturizer (check that article out for our recs).

When you start using retinol, make sure to begin by using it once a week. If you use it every day immediately your skin might react badly since it is a stronger product. Start building up with two times a week, then three, and work up to every other day if needed. Take your time with it; it is a slow but sure process! (skin purging might happen in the beginning since your skin is clearing out all the bacteria; so if you see some acne in the first few weeks don’t fret!)