Retinol 101: A short Beginner’s Guide to Using Retinol in your daily skincare routine for improved flawless skin

Retinol has long been labelled as a holy grail ingredient in skincare; and for good reason. Whether you're dealing with acne, fine lines, uneven texture, or dullness, retinol offers real, visible results. But with so many products on the market in 2025, how do you choose the right one?

In this guide, we’ll break down how retinol works, what to look for when shopping, and reveal the top trending retinol products of 2025 that are proven to be successful in the current trending beauty world.

How retinol works? what is actually in it?

Retinol as a form of vitamin A, can be described as a cure for all when it comes to battling skincare problems. It specifically helps with improving skin tone and textures alongside wrinkles, acne and hyperpigmentation.

This works by ultimately stimulating skin cell turnover. This is a common process that encourages the shedding of dead skin cells and in result a production of new ones, leading to smoother, brighter and healthier skin overall. It is seen as an all in one magic elixir that can also improve skin tones and texture, smooth fine lines and wrinkles, fade dark spots and acne scars, as well as boost collagen production. If there’s only one main product you need in your beauty bag, this is certainly it!

Read on for more on how you can use retinol in your daily skincare and beauty routines.

How you can use retinol in your skincare routine for flawless and glowing skin

Retinol is a versatile product and is included in a range of different types of skincare products. From toners, to serums and moisturiser’s therefore it’s important to understand how to balance it alongside your normal and natural skincare routine. Here is our best, effective and recommended way to include retinol as an beginner . . .

First step: Cleanser

When using retinol within your skincare routine it is first important to make sure the other products you will be using have gentle and calming properties. Keep it simple with a foaming or gel cleanser to prep and prime your skin. Wash off with warm water and pat with a fresh towel for best results.

Our reccomendations

Second Step: toner

After your skin is all prepped and clean, using a toner or serum is best to maintain skin hydration and prepares the skin for better absorption. If you use an exfoliating toner it is best to use on a separate night to using retinol based products, this is to avoid too much disruption to the skin.

Third step: retinol

This, is when you could incorporate retinol based products, applying 1-2 times per week so you can avoid sensitising your skin. If used to often it can then lead to irritation. Or, for a more gentle routine use a lightweight retinol facial serum and apply accordingly to the instructions on the specific product.

our personal recommendations

Final step: Mosturiser

After applying retinol it’s even better to maintain that hydration and to apply a gentle moisturiser for aftercare to help the barrier of the skin. We personally recommend a lightweight, fragrance-free moisturiser packed with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients work to replenish moisture, soothe irritation, and strengthen your skin’s natural barrier. They also work to help you gain all the benefits of retinol without the common side effects of dryness or sensitivity.

Consistency is key, so always follow your retinol routine with a barrier-protecting moisturiser and don’t forget to use SPF the next morning to protect your skin from sun damage. With the right aftercare, your retinol journey can be a smooth one that leaves your skin glowing, plump, and refreshed.

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