Retin A is a potent skincare ingredient that’s been known to treat acne, reduce fine lines and wrinkles and correct hyperpigmentation by speeding up cell turnover and helping to unblock pores. It can be irritating, particularly in its early stages of use but if you introduce it gradually and build up your routine slowly, you should be able to reap the benefits without too much skin irritation. It’s best to avoid other active ingredients (like exfoliants) while using retinol, as well as harsh cleansers and other products with alcohol, fragrance, essential oils, drying ingredients and chemical screens.
If you’re looking for a low-concentration retinol to try out, this serum from British brand Medik8 contains retinol in a moisturising base alongside glycerin and niacinamide which help support its effectiveness. It’s also free from fragrance, parabens and drying ingredients making it ideal for sensitive skin types. It’s clinically proven to reduce roughness and improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots and discolouration within eight weeks of use.
Drunk Elephant’s cult-favourite A-Passioni Retinol Cream is the holy grail for reactive skin types. It’s free from the’suspicious 6′ (sulfates, fragrance, essential oils, drying alcohols, silicones and SLS) and blended with a powerful 1% retinol, plus soothing kale, passionfruit, apricot and cherry extracts and super-nourishing natural oil-rich ingredients for soft and plump skin.
Another brand that’s gained a cult following for their effective ingredients at cheap-as-chips prices is The Ordinary. This serum harnesses the power of 4th generation retinol (granactive retinoid) to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin texture and address hyperpigmentation, plus it contains niacinamide to boost skin radiance and tackle uneven pigmentation. retin a uk