A bottle of retinol serum alongside a moisturizer on a bathroom counter.

How to Use Retinol Correctly: Guide for Effective Skincare

By Laurie Mias

A bottle of retinol serum alongside a moisturizer on a bathroom counter.

Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, is a powerful ingredient celebrated for its ability to improve skin texture, reduce fine lines, and promote cell turnover. When combined with hyaluronic acid, it forms an effective duo for deeply hydrating the skin and combating signs of aging. Our Intense Hydration Night Serum contains both ingredients, offering a comprehensive solution for smoother, firmer, and younger-looking skin. However, correct usage of retinol is essential to maximize its benefits while minimizing the risk of irritation. Here’s a guide to help you effectively incorporate retinol into your skincare routine using our serum:

Apply to Clean, Dry Skin

Use the retinol night serum after thoroughly cleansing your face. Ensure your skin is completely dry before applying a pea-sized amount of the serum to your fingertips.

Use a Pea-Sized Amount

A little goes a long way. Start with a pea-sized amount of the Intense Hydration Night Serum for your entire face, gently tapping it into your skin. Let the skin absorb it naturally. Avoid the eye area and the corners of your mouth.

Follow with a Moisturizer

After allowing the serum to absorb for a few minutes, apply a Face Moisturizer to hydrate and nourish your skin. This helps mitigate any potential dryness or irritation.

Use Sunscreen Daily

Retinol can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun. Always apply the product in the evening to avoid sun exposure, and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day.

Expect Adjustments Over Time

In the initial weeks of using our formula, slight redness might occur as your skin adjusts. This is normal. There might be tingling or mild redness, indicating non-intact skin often due to excessive dryness or a high pH, caused by irritations, eczema, fungal infections, and other skin conditions. Non-intact skin loses its barrier function, explaining the dryness. The MONO pH5.0 cosmetic penetrates quickly into such skin, reaching the lower layer at pH 7.4, hence the tingling. In two to three days of use, the skin repairs itself unless there is a significant pathology, allowing MONO to be used without causing redness or tingling.

Incorporating retinol into your skincare routine, as with our Night Serum, can yield remarkable benefits for your skin’s health and appearance. By starting gradually, applying it correctly, and ensuring adequate hydration and sun protection, you can effectively harness the power of retinol for smoother and younger-looking skin. Remember, consistency and patience are key to achieving optimal results with retinol.