Retinol has become one of the most popular skincare ingredients around, thanks to its effectiveness in improving issues such as acne and pigmentation. While it used to be a formulation that you could only access via a dermatologist, it’s now commonly available at beauty and skincare stores. Does this mean you should add it to your routine for better skin? The short answer is this: It depends on your skin type.
“Over the past few years, retinol has increased in popularity due to a rising interest in taking better care of one’s skin,” explains Dr Kenneth Thean, founder and medical director of Ensoul Medical Clinic. “Retinol is a nutrient that helps boost cell turnover, among its many other properties. It’s a type of retinoid, which is an umbrella term for the family of chemical compounds that are derivatives of vitamin A. Based on decades of research, retinoids have proven effective in treating wrinkles, fine lines, and even acne.”
