What happens to the skin if we use too much retinol?

Retinol has been crowned as the most effective active ingredient when it comes to combating the signs of aging in the skin.

Oliver Thansan
Oliver Thansan
24 December 2023 Sunday 10:15
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What happens to the skin if we use too much retinol?

Retinol has been crowned as the most effective active ingredient when it comes to combating the signs of aging in the skin. This cosmetic is a derivative of vitamin A that provides great benefits to the skin, among which it is worth highlighting that it reduces expression lines, wrinkles and sun spots. It also softens acne marks, scars and reduces the appearance of pores.

Other advantages of retinol are that it regulates fat production. It also stimulates the formation of collagen and elastin, resulting in firmer, more elastic and hydrated skin. As if that were not enough, it promotes the regeneration of the complexion, since it eliminates dead cells, thus improving the skin texture, which looks brighter.

Of course, despite all these positive points, retinol has a dark side: it is a very powerful and aggressive active ingredient for the skin. In fact, it is not recommended for sensitive skin, dermatitis or rosacea. In addition, pregnant or breastfeeding women should not use it either. Aside from these contraindications, it is imperative to know how to start using retinol so that the skin acclimatizes to its effects, because if we overdo it we will suffer certain undesirable consequences.

The first sign that you are abusing retinol on your skin will be that it will be drier, dehydrated, and look and feel tight. In addition, localized peeling may occur.

Irritation is another side effect that retinol abuse can bring. Your skin will show redness and irritated areas that may even itch or be painful. Finally, it must be emphasized that this active ingredient is photosensitive, so if you do not use it accompanied by sun protection during the day, you risk the appearance of spots.