Retinol in Skincare: how to use it safely?

Retinol, also known as vitamin A, is an ingredient that has been extensively researched and proven to make the skin appear younger; it stimulates cell turnover. Your cells regenerate faster, and the production of collagen and elastin is boosted. This is beneficial because as the skin ages, this process slows down naturally. With aging, cell turnover slows down, eventually leading to visible signs of skin aging such as pigmentation, fine lines, and dull skin. In short, retinol is the ultimate anti-aging ingredient!

For which skin concerns is retinol suitable?
Retinol is a suitable ingredient for ageing skin. This can start as early as age 25 because that’s when cell turnover begins to slow down, along with the production of collagen and elastin. Since retinol speeds up skin renewal, it also accelerates the shedding of old skin cells. Pigment cells are essentially pushed out of the skin through this cell turnover. Additionally, fine lines can be reduced by using retinol because they result from the decrease in collagen and elastin, the production of which is stimulated by retinol. These two substances help keep the skin firm and elastic.

How do you use retinol?
However, retinol is not always suitable for every skin type. Some skin types may react sensitively to retinol. It’s important to gradually introduce retinol into your skincare routine. Start with once a week, then twice a week. It’s good to know that retinol is an antioxidant and therefore cannot tolerate light and air. Therefore, only purchase products with retinol that are in light- and airtight packaging. Also, use retinol only in the evening, as it becomes unstable in sunlight.


The difference between serum and moisturizer.

The function of a serum A serum can be used as an addition to your skincare routine because it targets specific skin concerns. These concerns may include issues like acne, hyperpigmentation, dehydrated skin, or dullness. A significant difference between a cream and a serum is that the percentage of active ingredients in a serum is higher, providing that extra boost where needed. Another important distinction is the texture. A serum is thinner – often a bit gel-like – allowing it to penetrate deeper into the skin. Once it reaches this depth, the serum can start working its magic. When choosing a serum, consider your skin type and decide which problem you want to address. For instance, if you have dehydrated skin, opt for a serum with hyaluronic acid. Or if you have sun-damaged skin with pigmentation issues, choose a serum with vitamin C. Unlike a cream, a serum does not contain SPF. Therefore, a serum is not a replacement for a cream. Make sure to always apply cream during the day to protect your skin.

Price tag Serums are generally more expensive skincare products compared to others. You’re paying for the percentage of active ingredients in a serum, which also needs to remain concentrated and stable. And that comes with a price tag.

Function of a cream The function of a cream is quite straightforward: the right cream (suited to your skin type) ensures hydrated skin. A cream has a richer texture and essentially seals in a serum. This creates a barrier layer that protects and hydrates your skin throughout the day.

How to use First, cleanse your face, then apply a serum suitable for your skin type and concerns, and finish with a cream. A cream also helps the serum stay in place within the skin.

If you’re curious about your skin condition and whether it can be improved, consider visiting a dermatological clinic in your area and seek advice from a skincare professional. ♥

My top 3 skincare ingredients

As a skin therapist, I always find it exciting to try out new ingredients, provided they suit my skin type, of course. Fortunately, I have an easy-going skin that doesn’t require too much maintenance. It tends to be a bit dry at times, leaning towards dehydration. That’s why I often look for products that provide hydration and nourishment. In this blog, I’ll share with you three ingredients that I use daily and especially what they can do for your skin.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) Suitable for: acne-prone and rosacea-sensitive skin, dry skin.
Niacinamide is a versatile ingredient that can be combined with other active ingredients. It can contribute positively to many different skin issues. As we age, the number of antioxidants in the skin decreases. Niacinamide is an antioxidant, and we need it to keep the skin resilient and strong against harmful external influences. It’s beneficial to replenish these antioxidants to help the skin resist aging signs.
Niacinamide helps strengthen the (disrupted) skin barrier and retain moisture. A damaged skin barrier struggles to retain moisture, which can trigger irritation such as redness and pimples. By strengthening the skin barrier, redness and irritation can be reduced.
Additionally, niacinamide has a mild exfoliating effect, which helps combat dull skin and fine lines. Finally, niacinamide is also effective against acne due to its anti-inflammatory properties. I prefer a serum containing niacinamide because it typically has a higher concentration.

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Suitable for: dehydrated skin
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body, with more than half of it found in the skin. Its primary function is to retain moisture in the skin, allowing it to function optimally and keeping it “wrinkle-free,” so to speak. The action of hyaluronic acid can be compared to water being poured over cracked earth. You’ll notice the cracks disappear. Similarly, when the skin retains more moisture, it appears plumper and smoother.
There are serums containing hyaluronic acid that can significantly help your skin. However, if your skin is significantly dehydrated, the best way to give it a boost is through mesotherapy. This treatment, also known as a ‘skin booster treatment,’ involves injecting hyaluronic acid into the deeper layers of the skin using tiny needles. This process hydrates and strengthens your skin from within, reducing the visibility of fine lines.

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) Suitable for: all skin types, dull skin.
You might think it’s easy to squeeze extra oranges in the morning, hoping your skin will absorb some of it. However, unfortunately, only 1% of this reaches the skin, so we need to apply these vitamins from the outside to nourish the skin.

Vitamin C naturally occurs in our skin. Due to sun exposure, vitamin C breaks down, making the skin less resilient. Products containing vitamin C are therefore popular because they provide the skin with many benefits. The antioxidant properties of vitamin C protect your skin against harmful external influences such as UV radiation and pollution. At higher concentrations, vitamin C also has brightening effects on superficial pigmentation by stimulating collagen production. So, it’s also a good ingredient for evening out the skin tone.


There, those were the ones. If you have any questions about the products I use and enjoy using, feel free to send me a message. Perhaps I can help you further 😉

Love, Fabienne

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