Everything you need to know about retinol

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It’s the ingredient we’re hearing more and more about that’s being touted as a skincare saviour to make our faces look like we’ve just come straight from the salon each and every day.

But the question on a lot of people's lips is: ‘what is retinol and why do I need to add it to my daily routine’?

Well, we were recently at the launch of Neutrogena’s new Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil, where we got the down-low on what the hero ingredient actually is and how it aims to stop ageing in its tracks.

Woman applying face oil
Here's everything you need to know about retinol. Photo: Getty Images

What is retinol and how does it work?

You’ve probably seen it emblazoned on the front of numerous products on the aisles but were left scratching your head about what retinol actually is.

Retinol is actually a derivative of Vitamin A and it hailed as a powerful ingredient which can fight against the signs of ageing.

Neutorgena’s research and development ambassador put it to us at the event to imagine our skin like a brick wall. Just like our skin, bricks and mortar deplete over time, leading to cracks or wrinkles.

Step forward retinol, which works to help build up and renew depleting cells, reducing fine lines, wrinkles, age spots and uneven skin.

While many people rave about the benefits of retinol, we would advise people with sensitive skin to exercise some caution when it comes to the oil, as it can cause irritation.

What time of day should I use it so it works best?

The best time to apply retinol is at night, so that it can work like a powerful treatment overnight and help to replenish the skin as you sleep.

How to use retinol

Start by cleansing your face as you normally would before pumping out about four or five drops of retinol oil and massaging it into your face, neck and décolletage. Then lather your moisturiser on top.

You should notice a difference in your fine lines and wrinkles within a few weeks.

Here’s some of our favourite retinol products on the market:

Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil - $25.79

Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil.

Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Retinol Capsules - $101

Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Retinol Capsules
Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Retinol Capsules

Murad Resurgence Retinol Youth Renewal Serum - $135

Murad Resurgence Retinol Youth Renewal Serum
Murad Resurgence Retinol Youth Renewal Serum

Clinique Fresh Pressed Clinical Daily + Overnight Boosters - $60

Clinique Fresh Pressed Clinical Daily + Overnight Boosters
Clinique Fresh Pressed Clinical Daily + Overnight Boosters

Pixi Retinol Tonic - $55

Pixi Retinol Tonic
Pixi Retinol Tonic

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