This article teaches how to apply retinol to sensitive skin and avoid irritation by using Buffering techniques. How to Buffer Retinol.
Buffering: How to Apply Retinol to Sensitive Skin
Retinol works wonders for the skin. It is part of the holy grail of skincare of Vitamin C during the day and Retinol at night. But Retinol can prove too itchy and irritating for many users. Sensitive users often abandon retinol altogether. Are you considering forsaking retinol? Try these retinol application tips first.
How to Buffer Retinol
The key to avoiding burning yourself with Retinols, prescription or over-the-counter, is buffering.
To buffer either apply moisturizer first (if you’re very sensitive) or after applying Retinol, and don’t skimp. Buffering allows for the maximum frequency of Retinol use per week.
Retinol makes skin look so good at first, it is easy to over-do it. This often leads to burning the skin like an inadvertent self-induced chemical peel. If you find yourself in this position, apply moisturizer first before retinol when resuming retinol use. If your skin has not recently been irritated or too dry, it is safe to apply retinol first then the moisturizer.
Moisturizers with hyaluronic acid are marvelous, but they will cause any active ingredients, such as retinol, to be more intense. This combo is typically not a problem if your skin is not already irritated.
If you still can’t tolerate the peeling and dry skin, apply Retinol for twenty minutes to an hour, then wash it off before bed. This way you at least get some Retinol benefits.
Summary
Buffering Retinol is the best way to avoid skin irritation.
Was How to Buffer Retinol useful? For more tips on how to best apply retinol, read How to Use Tretinoin Without Irritation