Beauty
How to use the MVP skin care ingredient without the annoying side effects.
Retinol always seems like a great idea until it turns your face into a flaky, dry desert.
But if you sandwich the retinol between two moisturizers, it might be a smoother process.
Why is such a renowned ingredient so problematic, you ask?
Its avitamin A derivativethats added tocreams and serumsto help regulate skin cell turnover, explainsDr.
Marisa Garshick, M.D., FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist and clinical assistant professor at Cornell.
When used on a regular basis, retinol can transform a dull complexion into theglowy skinof your dreams.
But theres definitely an adjustment period.
Brendan Camp, M.D., FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist withMDCS Dermatologyin Manhattan.
This jot down of reaction is sometimes referred to asretinol dermatitis, he tells Bustle.
Retinol dermatitis occurs because of damage orirritation to the skin barrier.
Heres what to know about the expert-approved beauty hack.
Instead of smearing retinol directly onto your skin, the idea is to lay down a moisturizing buffer first.
Basically, its a way to introduce a little less product so your skin has a chance to adjust.
Lauren Penzi, M.D.,a board-certified dermatologist withMDCS Dermatology.
And there you have it: the ideal skin care sandwich.
Smooth on a thin layer of retinol, avoiding your eyelids and lips.
A pea-sized amount is all you need.
Penzi recommendsLa Roche Posay Toleriane Double Barrier, theLaneige Water Sleeping Mask, orSummer Fridays Jet Lag Mask.
And theres your sandwich.
Are There Any Downsides To The Retinol Sandwich Method?
Its important to note that applying moisturizer along with your retinol can make it less potent, saysDr.
Kseniya Kobets, M.D.
a board-certified dermatologist and director ofCosmetic Dermatology at Montefiore-Einstein.
Its also possible you wont need the top layer of the sandwich.
Over-moisturizing can definitely be a thing, she says.
Studies referenced:
Becker, LC.
(2014).Safety Assessment of Dimethicone Crosspolymers as Used in Cosmetics.
Kafi, R. (2007).Improvement of naturally aged skin with vitamin A (retinol).
2007 May;143(5):606-12. doi: 10.1001/archderm.143.5.606.
(2003).The mechanism of retinol-induced irritation and its tool to anti-irritant development.Toxicol Lett.
(2020).Retinoic Acid and Its Derivatives in Skin.
