WHAT IS RETINOL?  

Retinol is an active form of Vitamin A and belongs to a family of ingredients called retinoids. Within this family, Retinol sits in the middle of the spectrum. It's more effective than over-the-counter retinyl esters but gentler than prescription-strength tretinoin.

Retinol encourages your skin to shed older cells and replace them with fresh, healthy ones. While some believe it thins the skin, Retinol actually helps to thicken it over time, making it healthier and more resilient with continued use. It also penetrates the second layer of skin, the dermis, to stimulate collagen and elastin production. These two huge and helpful functions are what make Retinol ideal for so many different skin concerns.

THE BENEFITS OF RETINOL SKINCARE

If you're wondering what makes Retinol such a celebrated skincare ingredient, it comes down to five core benefits.

1. REDUCES FINE LINES AND WRINKLES

Retinol is best known for its anti-aging benefits, especially in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. By encouraging collagen production, it helps the skin appear plump and smooth as it regenerates from the inside out. As new collagen forms, wrinkles soften, and your complexion takes on a more youthful appearance.

2. ADDRESSES ACNE AND ACNE MARKS

As dead cells are shed, the oil, dirt and other impurities that get stuck in your pores are also sloughed away. In this way, Retinol skincare can act as a deep clean for your pores to prevent acne from forming in the first place. The collagen and elastin boost can even reduce scarring from within as they aid the skin’s natural renewal process.

3. REDUCES HYPERPIGMENTATION

If you're dealing with dark spots or an uneven skin tone, Retinol can be a wonderful ally. By encouraging cell turnover and helping to regulate melanin production, Retinol can fade existing hyperpigmentation and prevent future discoloration from surfacing. This is especially true for sun damage, which often lingers beneath the skin before making an appearance.

For even better results, you can pair Retinol with ingredients like Tyrosinase Inhibitors, which help block the enzyme responsible for creating excess pigment in the first place.

4. BRIGHTENS THE SKIN

Your skin cells naturally turn over to bring healthier cells to the surface, but this process slows down as you age. The result can be dull, lackluster skin. Retinol regulates the natural exfoliation process by increasing cellular renewal, leading to brighter, more radiant and youthful skin.

5. SMOOTHS AND IMPROVES SKIN TEXTURE

If you've ever felt that your skin's texture is uneven, you're not alone. This can be caused by a buildup of dead skin cells, lingering acne marks or even just the natural process of aging. As Retinol gently speeds up cell turnover, it refines your skin's surface without thickening the outermost layer. The result is smoother, more even-toned skin that provides a beautiful base for makeup.

HOW TO USE RETINOL IN YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE

Ready to see the results? Here's what you need to know to start using Retinol.

RETINOL SHOULD ONLY BE USED AT NIGHT

Your skin naturally regenerates while you sleep, making nighttime the ideal time for Retinol skincare to work its magic. However, during the day, sunlight breaks down Retinol and reduces its effectiveness. Using Retinol at night also helps minimize sun sensitivity and reduces the risk of hyperpigmentation. However, it's still essential to protect your skin with a broad-spectrum SPF during the day to protect your results.

AN EXAMPLE EVENING ROUTINE

Retinol should always be part of a skincare routine that has all the essentials. Here's a simple example to follow:

1. Cleanse with a gentle cleanser like Glycolic Facial Cleanser with 10% Glycolic Acid
2. Apply Retinol to dry skin (only at night, never in the morning)
3. Follow with a hydrating moisturizer or serum like Ultra Hydro Gel to support the skin barrier
4. Apply broad-spectrum SPF like Hydrating Protection Gel with SPF 30 (in the mornings)

THE DETAILS

Start with 2 – 3 nights per week and gradually increase frequency as your skin adjusts. This gradual approach helps minimize irritation and allows your skin to build tolerance. Apply Retinol to your face, neck and décolleté. The skin around your eyes is thinner and more delicate, so it's best to avoid applying Retinol in this area to prevent irritation.

WHAT TO EXPECT AS YOUR SKIN ADJUSTS

Mild dryness, flaking or redness is normal when you first start using Retinol. This isn't a sign to stop—it's a sign of increased cell turnover. If the irritation feels a bit too much, simply scale back how often you use Retinol and be extra diligent with your moisturizer.

WHAT INGREDIENTS TO PAIR (AND AVOID) WITH RETINOL

Retinol works well with many ingredients, but some combinations require careful planning.

INGREDIENTS THAT PAIR WELL

These ingredients can be used with Retinol to enhance its effects.

• Hyaluronic Acid
• Niacinamide
• Ceramides and peptides
• Vitamin C

USE WITH CAUTION

These ingredients can be used with Retinol, but it's best to alternate them rather than combining them in the same routine. For example, use Retinol one night, then alpha hydroxy acids or beta hydroxy acids on another night.

• Alpha hydroxy acids (like Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid)
• Beta hydroxy acids (like Salicylic Acid)
• Benzoyl Peroxide
  

WHEN TO START USING RETINOL FOR ACNE

Retinol is particularly useful when other products aren't quite doing the trick for persistent acne or the marks left behind. Even if you’re a teen dealing with breakouts, Retinol can be a great option.

If you're dealing with stubborn breakouts that haven't responded to other ingredients, or if you're noticing marks that linger long after the breakout has cleared, Retinol may be the solution you've been looking for. It works beneath the surface to address both active breakouts and the marks they leave behind.

If you have questions about when to add Retinol to your routine, talk to your skincare professional to make an informed decision.

HOW TO CHOOSE A HIGH-QUALITY RETINOL

With so many Retinol products on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. You might see Retinol skincare in drugstores, but professional formulations are often a better choice for tackling stubborn concerns.

Professional-grade Retinol typically uses higher-quality ingredients and more advanced delivery systems. This means you’ll see better results with less irritation. Unlike many drugstore options that use lower concentrations and may not penetrate as deeply, professional products are designed to deliver Retinol where it can work most effectively, helping you achieve clearer, healthier skin.

GLYMED'S RETINOL REJUVENATION SERUM

If you're ready to try a professional-grade Retinol, GlyMed’s Retinol Rejuvenation Serum is the perfect place to start. Clinical studies show this serum delivers impressive results in just eight weeks:

• A 13% boost in radiance
• A 22% reduction in wrinkles
• A 32% smoother texture
• A 17% increase in firmness
• A 28% improvement in hydration

What makes this serum so special is its micro-encapsulated Retinol. Instead of releasing the active ingredient all at once, this technology slowly releases it over time. This means the product can work deeper within the skin, right where it’s needed. This gentle approach is much less likely to cause irritation, making it an amazing starting point for first-time Retinol users or those with sensitive skin.

WHAT TO REMEMBER WHEN USING RETINOL

ALWAYS WEAR SPF (SUN PROTECTION FACTOR)

Retinol breaks down when exposed to UV rays, so wearing SPF is essential to maintain its effectiveness. Retinol can also cause photosensitivity, even if you're only using it at night, so make sure you're protecting your skin during the day.

SKIN CONDITIONING MAY BE REQUIRED

Retinol can make your skin drier when you first start using it. If you're brand new to this ingredient, consider using a buffer product like Ultra Hydro Gel. You can also start by applying it a few nights a week and increasing usage as your skin adjusts.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

CAN I USE RETINOL EVERY DAY?

You can work up to daily use, but it's best to start slowly. Begin with 2 – 3 nights per week and gradually increase frequency as your skin builds tolerance. Some people find that their skin does best with every-other-night use, while others can use it nightly without irritation.

CAN I USE RETINOL IF I HAVE SENSITIVE SKIN?

Yes, but start slowly and choose a gentle formula. GlyMed’s micro-encapsulated Retinol is designed to be less aggressive on the skin, making it suitable for sensitive skin types. Always follow up with a hydrating moisturizer to support your skin barrier.

CAN I USE RETINOL IF I’M PREGNANT OR NURSING?

When you're pregnant or nursing, everything your body absorbs is also passed to your child. While topical Vitamin A (Retinol) is safe for adult skin, it has been shown to be harmful to unborn and newborn children. You must discontinue Retinol use if you are actively trying to conceive, are pregnant or nursing.

During this stage, we highly recommend Bio Renewal Serum as a pregnancy-safe alternative. It supports cell detoxification and delays cellular aging in a similar way to Retinol.

SHOULD I USE RETINOL IN THE MORNING OR AT NIGHT?

Retinol should only be used at night. Sunlight breaks down Retinol and reduces its effectiveness. Using Retinol at night also allows it to work with your skin's natural renewal process and minimizes the risk of sun sensitivity and hyperpigmentation.

CREATE A RETINOL SKINCARE ROUTINE WITH HELP FROM THE PROS

Your GlyMed+ Professional is the best person to guide you on whether Retinol is the right fit for your skincare routine. They’re here to answer your questions and ensure you’re using products that match your goals. Reach out to your GlyMed+ Pro to learn more and shop directly through their GlyMed+ Retail Store for trusted GlyMed+ products!

If you’re new to GlyMed+ and don’t have a Retinol skincare expert yet, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! You can easily find a trusted GlyMed+ Professional near you by visiting our website. Let’s find what works best for your skin, together!