Would I be a fool to jump straight to a 1% retinol serum?

[pretzelflipzaretheanswer]

Hi,

I had a retinol thread running, but can't find it, so am starting another.

After doing some research, I was thinking of trying the Paula's Choice 1% Retinol Treatment. The reviews are really good and it seems to me that using a very small amount every 2nd or 3rd night, might be more effective than using a serum/cream that's much lower in retinol and is buffered with loads of other ingredients, every night.

I wouldn't say I have sensitive skin, but still, would I be really foolish to jump straight in at the deep end?

TIA

Start off gingerly and keep an eye out for any feelings of sensitivity. But I'm sure it will be fine. Retinol is a more dilute version of retin-a. Retin-A is the one you need to be properly cautious with.

Thanks, Pimpernell.

I just don't want to, perhaps unnecessarily, spend extra money on 'beginners' serums, when I could just build up with one product.

Would a couple of nights a week be a good starting point?

Has anyone used this one specifically?

I have. I got the trial size a few weeks ago.

I’ve had no dryness or irritation. I’ve been using it two nights in a row then a night off, one pump each go.

I’m really really oily though so I would’ve welcomed a little dryness.

NotExactly, what results have you had, if any, so far?

I jumped straight in to 2.5% with no ill effects. The viola skin one on amazon. Been using it twice a day for about 2/3 weeks.

Laurie, wow, you must have hardcore skin! 2.5% retinol twice a day?! Have you seen any results?

I think you probably can start on 1%, but I would apply it over your moisturiser for the first couple of times.

The ordinary do a 0.5% retinol. It's very inexpensive so you could try that before the 1% to see how you get on

Its really gently, has loads of other things added. I bought a vitamin C cream at the same time - now that stings ! On my chin weirdly, nowhere else

My skin does look good, I'm not really putting it round my eyes where my deepest wrinkles are.

I bought the 1% Paula's Choice clinical retinol and it makes my skin flakey and dry even when I use gradually and dilute with a moisturiser..such a shame. Have stopped using it now.

I started with Ordinary 2% every other night. Then upped to every night after about 10 days.

After 3 months of this I'm now on 5% with no issues at all.

My skin definitely looks better. I use a 50 spf sunscreen every day too.

I found Paula's Choice really disappointing, OP - no visible results at all. That said,my skin is used to very active skincare, but this was a waste of money for me.

Which moisturiser with 50spf do you use nightsky - I'm struggling to find any that are actually moisturising

Laurie this one

Thank you

I’ve noticed some difference. Skin feels softer and slightly smoother and my giant crater pores are a little reduced.

I’m not overwhelmed though. I think the reviews may have overhyped it. According to many it can raise Jesus from the dead, reverse global warming and bring about world peace .

I might try the one Laurie suggested once the Paula’s Choice runs out.

If you do want to try it I’d definitely suggest the trial size. I ordered through look fantastic and got 20% off. They do the offers regularly.

I didn't rate the Paula's choice one. I've used a lot of retinols and my faves are:

Indeed labs - I'd start with this
QRX labs - currently using and it's fantastic
Obagi - expensive and v strong but the best out there

Fwiw, I think The Ordinary is distinctly, well, ordinary.

Go for it.
Mix it with your moisturiser and start once/twice a week
Don’t forget your spf in the day.
The Paula’s choice stuff is brilliant!

I have only tried Indeed Labs, but it fried my face. It got horribly dry, almost burned in patches, and took weeks to recover. I used an SPF50 during the day as well.
I have not dared to try Retinol since, but have just ordered this one: www.yesstyle.com/en/missha-time-revolution-night-repair-borabit-ampoule-50ml-50ml/info.html/pid.1057911255##productAnchor

Hmm I think given the price and the glowing reviews on multiple website, I'm going to give the Indeed Labs a go.