This powerhouse ingredient has become one of the most talked about names in skincare, and for good reason.
So, what is retinol, where does it come from, and how might you add it into your routine?
To help answer these questions, we’ve gathered expert insight from Dr. Christian Jurist, Medical Director of Global Education at Pevonia International.
What Is Retinol Derived From?
Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A that’s widely used in skincare for its rejuvenating properties.
Unlike prescription retinoids, which are typically stronger and act more directly, retinol goes through two conversion steps in the body – first into retinaldehyde, then into retinoic acid, the form your cells can actually use.
Because this process is slower, it’s often considered a gentle introduction to this class of actives.
What is the Purpose of Retinol?
Retinol works by encouraging the skin’s natural renewal process, which may help to reveal a smooth, fresh surface.
Over time, it could also support a more even tone, leaving the complexion visibly balanced and healthy-looking.
As Dr. Jurist points out, retinol works to “promote skin renewal by increasing cellular turnover, stimulating the production of other skin proteins, managing excess melanin accumulation, and helping unclog pores.”
So, what is retinol used for? Dr. Jurist highlights that it may support “improving skin texture, smoothing fine lines and wrinkles, reducing hyperpigmentation, and even helping control acne and its associated concerns.”
It’s available in many different forms, from lightweight serums to rich creams and everyday lotions, making it easy to find a blend that suits your routine.
What Is Retinol Good For?
From texture to tone, let’s look at why this ingredient has become a staple in so many regimens.
Smoother-Looking Skin
Through supporting the skin’s natural renewal process, this active ingredient may help soften the appearance of fine lines and texture.
Dr. Jurist notes that retinol is “capable of a visible and quantifiable reduction of fine lines and wrinkles through progressive epidermal resurfacing.”
With regular use, over time this could contribute to a more refined, smoother-looking complexion.
More Even Skin Tone
Retinol is often chosen for its potential to support areas of visible unevenness or discoloration.
Dr. Jurist acknowledges: “It supports the reduction of melanin accumulation, leading to lightening of hyperpigmentation.”
In the long term, this may help the complexion look smooth and balanced.
Clearer-Looking Complexion
Thanks to its ability to encourage cell turnover, retinol is widely recognized for supporting blemish-prone skin.
Through this process, pores may remain clearer, which in turn could contribute to smooth, clarified-looking results.
It may also be useful for anyone concerned about post-breakout marks or uneven texture.
Fresh, Radiant Results
While retinol is often used to target specific issues, it’s also praised for its ability to support an overall rejuvenated look.
By encouraging the natural cycle of skin cell renewal, it may help to reduce surface build-up, leaving the complexion visibly soft, radiant, and refreshed.
How to Introduce Retinol into Your Routine
Once you understand the benefits, the next step is to add this ingredient into your routine slowly.
Many people feel hesitant because of talk around the ‘retinol reaction’ in the early stages, but the key is to start gently so your skin has time to adjust.
According to Dr. Jurist, it’s best to begin with over-the-counter options, which he describes as a “milder and safer form of vitamin A compared to prescriptions” that “can be administered in concentrations starting at 0.5% and up to 2.5%.”
Starting with just a couple of nights per week and gradually increasing is advisable. We recommend applying it in the evening, before you go to bed, to support overnight renewal.
Sun protection the following morning is also considered a non-negotiable, as Dr. Jurist explains, “always wear sunscreen daily to protect the skin from increased sensitivity to UV rays.”
It’s equally important to think about the rest of your routine. Dr. Jurist points out that combining retinol with certain ingredients, such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), could “alter the performance, efficacy, or results of a retinol product, and even cause undesired side effects.”
This doesn’t mean that retinol can’t be paired with other key components. Dr. Jurist highlights that it can be combined with hyaluronic acid, which may help deliver retinol “deeper into the lower layers, thoroughly moisturizing and soothing,” and natural antioxidants to “speed up renewal and recovery, while increasing the protection of the skin against ongoing environmental aggressors.” He also notes that jt can work in harmony with ceramides, niacinamide, and peptides.
So, what is retinol? It could be the rejuvenating hero your routine has been waiting for.
With consistent use and a little patience, it may help your skin look smoother, clearer, and more radiant.
Ready to give it a go? Explore our Micro-Retinol line to find a formula that works for you.
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