EXTRA MILE – Retinol Cream

Retinol Strengths & Usage Guide

Understanding the Different Strengths

Retinol 0.025% (Lower Strength)

• Best For: Beginners or those with sensitive skin.
• Benefits: Gently promotes cell turnover, helping to improve skin texture, reduce fine lines, and treat acne with a lower risk of irritation.
• Suitable For: Those just starting with retinoids or people with more sensitive skin.

Retinol 0.05% (Moderate Strength)

• Best For: Individuals looking to address acne, uneven skin tone, and fine lines.
• Benefits: Offers a more noticeable improvement in skin texture, acne prevention, and wrinkle reduction while maintaining a balanced approach.
• Suitable For: Those with skin already accustomed to lower-strength retinoids or individuals needing a stronger treatment.

Retinol 0.1% (High Strength)

• Best For: Severe acne, deep wrinkles, or sun damage.
• Benefits: Provides intensive cell turnover, helping to reduce severe acne, sun spots, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone at a faster rate.
• Suitable For: Experienced retinoid users or those with more stubborn skin concerns.

How to Use

Application Tips:

• Start Slow: Retinol can cause irritation when first introduced, so start with 2-3 times a week and gradually increase as your skin builds tolerance.
• Apply at Night: Retinol can increase sensitivity to sunlight, so always use it as part of your evening routine.
• Pea-Sized Amount: A small amount goes a long way. Apply a thin layer over your entire face, avoiding sensitive areas like the eyes and mouth.
• Moisturise Well: Follow up with a rich moisturiser to soothe the skin and reduce dryness or irritation.
• SPF Daily: Use sunscreen every day as retinol makes the skin more susceptible to sunburn.

Frequency:

• Retinol 0.025%: Start 2-3 times a week and increase gradually as your skin tolerates it.
• Retinol 0.05%: Use 3-4 times a week, and increase frequency as tolerated.
• Retinol 0.1%: Start with 2-3 times per week and build up to nightly use as your skin adjusts.

Pro Tips:

• Avoid Mixing with Other Strong Actives: When using retinol, avoid mixing with other exfoliants, such as glycolic acid or benzoyl peroxide, as it may lead to excessive dryness or irritation.
• Expect Purging: Your skin might go through a purging phase where breakouts temporarily worsen before improving.
• Always Patch Test: If you’re new to retinol, patch test to check how your skin reacts before applying it to your entire face.