Retinol: Acne's Worst Enemy & The Skin's Savior

Retinol Myths

Considering how retinol is viewed as a skin savior and overall skin healer, there are many misconceptions associated with this mighty cream and the side effects it can have for some individuals. One common myth about retinol is that it will make the skin sun-sensitive and that patients cannot be exposed to UV rays once they have applied it. Dr. Doris Day from the New York University Medical Center has confirmed that retinol does not make a patient’s skin sensitive to the sun, as the ingredient itself is sensitive to sunlight, hence why the cream is typically applied at nighttime. She does confirm that a retinoid cream or serum should not make the skin more vulnerable to UV rays than any other beauty product someone may apply to their face.

Another common myth is that a retinoid can cause dryness, redness, and flaking to the skin. However, if a consumer slowly eases into using it, they can avoid these side effects. Rather than just slathering it on every night, for the first two weeks apply the cream every third night, then every other night, then eventually to every night as long as the skin does not appear irritated. Also, apply a basic moisturizer to prevent dryness. With these easy guidelines, anyone can have beautiful skin in no time!

Before starting treatment, find out some of the risks associated with retinol creams now.