RETINOL

Retinol is an amazing addition to your routine, but it can irritate more sensitive skin. Retinol encourages faster skin cell turnover, sometimes causing skin 'shedding' - revealing smoother, glowing skin underneath. This can leave more sensitive skin feeing irritated and red. There are many ways you can try to reduce irritation from retinol. If you have sensitive or reactive skin, take it slow! Retinols that are a lower dose and contain antiinflammatories are a good place to start. Farmacy Beauty's 1% Vitamin A Serum contains two pure and potent retinoids (one fastacting, the other encapsulated) but it is 1% and blended with Ceramides to rehydrate and replenish the skin's barrier, plus added Upcycled Raspberry Seed Oil soothes and hydrates the skin to minimise irritation.

The more stable the molecule, the more effective it can be on the skin. Medik8's Crystal Retinal offers a level of retinal stability featuring their renowned crystal encapsulation and a patentpending formula complex. Available in 5 strengths: 1, 3, 6, 10 and 20. Most customers start on Crystal Retinal 3 (for skincare beginners) or 6 (for experienced skincare users), then over time move up to 10. The dual-layered stability system comes together to protect the retinal molecule for unmatched potency and long-lasting effectiveness for brighter, smoother and firmer skin. Find out which level of Crystal Retinal is right for you at medik8.com

With 3.5% high dose retinol, this fast acting multi-retinoid serum visibly reduces the 4 signs of skin ageing in just two weeks. Gentle enough for nighttime use, the formula includes Squalane to soothe, smooth and minimise the appearance of pores. Use alongside SPF in the daytime, two times a week before building gradually to nightly use on face and neck.

Unlocking even greater retinoid power, the formula also includes 5% Granactive Retinoid - a new generation retinoid that is not only incredibly powerful but it is also ultra-gentle too.

Dr Sam says: “If your skin is sensitive, I suggest using Flawless Nightly Serum first for three months, then step up to Flawless Nightly Pro. For those with oily/combination and normal/tolerant skin or those who have been using a retinoid for a while, gradual introduction to Flawless Nightly Pro is recommended. Use one pump every other night for two weeks, and then increase to nightly use as tolerated. Use it for a minimum of four weeks and prepare to fall in love with your skin!”

Combating the dreaded signs of ageing and containing a trifecta of powerhouse ingredients to unclog pores, reduce pigmentation and boost collagen to lessen fine lines, this new Flawless Nightly Pro Serum from dermatologist Dr Sam Bunting contains 10% Niacinamide and 2% Bakuchiol.

Iräye uses Bio-Retinol in their Lymphactive M Complex throughout their range which is a gentle, plant-based retinol that invigorates the natural production of collagen and elastin without the same irritation.

The Cream £110.00 from Iräye. uk.irayeskincare.com

If you're having no luck, why not try a retinol alternative?

Bakuchiol is a great alternative which offers similar results with less irritation. Allies of Skin's CE15 Bakuchiol Firming Oil is formulated with 10% Vitamin C and 5% Vitamin E for added anti-aging benefits.

CE15 Bakuchiol Firming Oil

£145.00 from Allies of Skin. uk.allies.shop