Subsequent up is retinoid evening—sure, that features over-the-counter retinol merchandise. Retinoids and exfoliants velocity up cell turnover, however they do it in very other ways. “Retinoids are engaged on the receptors,” Bowe explains. Because of this clearing away lifeless pores and skin on exfoliation evening is so necessary. 

You possibly can go for an OTC retinol or a prescription-grade retinoid like tretinoin or Tazorac. So which one do you have to select? “I often begin folks off with over-the-counter merchandise,” Bowe notes. These kinds are gentler on the pores and skin and can trigger considerably much less irritation than their prescription-grade cousins. 

Bowe recommends searching for a .3% retinol product for those who’re simply beginning out. You possibly can bump it up as your pores and skin tolerates, however she warns: “The 1% formulation will not be for the faint of coronary heart.” 

“For these with delicate pores and skin, I like to search for merchandise that include encapsulated retinol, which makes use of a know-how that ‘time releases’ the retinol extra slowly, so it is not hitting your pores and skin unexpectedly,” board-certified dermatologist Courtney Rubin, M.D., FAAD as soon as informed mbg. 

Whereas many individuals will get glowing outcomes from OTC retinol, these with acne-prone pores and skin could not solely tolerate prescription-grade merchandise with ease, however really want them to maintain cussed pimples at bay. 

All of this to say: When you have pores and skin situations like pimples, rosacea, or eczema, it’s finest to test together with your derm earlier than selecting a retinol product. In any other case, begin with a delicate retinol and work your means up.