How to use a body Retinol
In a very unofficial pole on social media, 60% of respondents said that ‘they would love to use a body retinol, but don’t know where to start.’
If you’re included in this lot, then you start here. We follow a strict no gatekeeping rule so take this as your blow by blow, step-by-step guide on how to incorporate a body retinol into your skincare routine for Black skin.
Firstly, why might you want to use a retinol into your body skincare routine?
Simply because it’s a gamechanger that helps to improve the overall condition and appearance of your skin. It will exfoliate to smooth and polish the skin, tackle concerns like dark marks and fade hyperpigmentation to give you a much more even skin tone. It’s also great to helping to firm the skin especially in areas like the décolletage that prone to dryness, fine lines and wrinkles.
What sort of retinol to use?
It is best to a retinol one that’s been formulated specifically for the body. You’ll get more bang for you buck. You can get straight up retinol only body lotions or you can choose to go with one that has been formulated with additional active ingredients such as glycolic or lactic acid. which are Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs). These will help to boost exfoliation and allow deeper penetration of the retinol. We asked friend of BSD and expert skincare formulator, Dr Julian Sass, why these types of body retinols are so beneficial.
Retinol and AHAs can be a match made in heaven in body products. The AHAs help to quickly exfoliate the top layer of skin, allowing the retinol to more easily penetrate the skin. These two ingredients do have different pH requirements, so often encapsulated retinol is chosen in these situations. Encapsulated retinol is also great for body products because it allows a slower release of the retinol, diminishing potential irritation.
Also look for retinols that have soothing and nourishing ingredients like shea butter and hyaluronic acid to boost hydration and moisture.
When should you use of body retinol?
It is best to use a body retinol after you’ve had a shower and the skin is still damp. Really concentrate on rubbing in into your key areas, such as the back of arms and thigh, heels and any area you really want to treat. It’s a good idea to follow up with a general all over, body moisturiser to help lock the retinol into the skin, especially if you’re using more of a lotion than a heavier cream based retinol.
How often should you use a body retinol?
Start by including your body retinol into your skincare routine two to three times a week, giving your skin a few days break in-between. This allows your skin to adjust slowly. You can increase your use over a few weeks. It is possible to experience dry and flaky skin when using a body retinol, hence why a slow and steady approach will always win. If you do experience any irritation you can do the following:
Slow down your use and use more sparingly
Create a buffer by applying a light body lotion prior to using your body retinol
Apply a nourishing moisturiser immediately after to help to prevent excessive dryness
Lastly, two things to remember:
Wash your hands after applying a body retinol. The last thing you want to do it to put your chin in your hands and cause an irritation.
If body is exposed to sunlight, apply a broad spectrum sunscreen, minimum SPF30.
BODY RETINOLS WE LOVE
