Retinoid for Beginners: Your Guide to Getting Started

Retinoids are one of the most potent and transformative skincare ingredients, particularly for concerns like fine lines and wrinkles. It’s also one of the most buzzed about—just scroll through social media (#retinoid has over 500 million views on one platform). Skincare enthusiasts are sharing their personal experiences with Retinoid products and while their videos are informative, they can also be overwhelming, especially for beginners. With the help of our Origins Skin Experts, we’ve created a guide to understanding Retinoids. Whether you’re new to the ingredient or just need a Retinoid refresher, here’s everything you need to know to help easily navigate the world of Retinoid products.

WHAT IS RETINOID?

Retinoids area class of powerful skincare ingredients derived from vitamin A. Skincare professionals consider Retinoids the gold standard of youth boosting ingredients because of its impressive ability to address a variety of skincare concerns—from wrinkles to pores to radiance—and support the overall vitality of your skin. There are several types of Retinoids, including one you may be familiar with, Retinol.

ARE RETINOL AND RETINOIDS THE SAME THING?

Retinol is a subtype of Retinoids. “Think of it like a family, and Retinoid is the family name. We use three different Retinoids in our Plantscription collection.,” says Kristine Schmalenberg, Executive Director, Clinical and Scientific Affairs, Global Research & Development. Retinol and Retinoids can deliver similar skin-rejuvenating benefits. All Retinoids, including retinol, whether prescription or cosmetic, can temporarily cause redness or irritation to the skin, in particular at the start of use.

HOW DOES RETINOID WORK ON THE SKIN?

Retinoid helps boost natural cell turnover. As you age, your skin barriers' natural cell turnover process slows, leading to fewer new cells and a buildup of dead skin cells on the surface. This buildup can cause your skin to appear dull, rough, and uneven. Using a retinoid product can enhance the cell turnover process, helping shed dead cells so your skin appears smoother, brighter, and more even toned. Faster shedding can also help prevent dead skin from clogging pores, which can lead to fewer breakouts and an improved look of pores.

Retinoid is known to support the natural production of collagen, a naturally occurring protein that lends skin its firmness and elasticity.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF RETINOID PRODUCTS?

Serums, moisturizers, and eye creams, as well as treatments for the body, are the most common Retinoid products. “Retinoid needs to be absorbed by the skin to be effective, so adding it to a cleanser or a product that is removed won’t deliver much of a benefit,” says Schmalenberg. Retinoid serums and creams are the most popular Retinoid products because they can easily slip into your skincare routine.

TIPS FOR USING RETINOID FOR BEGINNERS

If you’re just starting out or reintroducing a Retinoid product into your skincare routine, here are a few helpful tips to get started.

RETINOID TIP 1: Go Slow

While most people do well with Retinoids, some may experience temporary irritation, including dryness and flaking. Typically, retinol products require a phase-in period: Applying a retinol product two to three times a week, preferably at night, can give your skin a chance to acclimate. After a week or two, the irritation should resolve, and you can start using it nightly.

The Origins lab specifically formulated Plantscription™ Active Wrinkle Correction Serum with Retinoid to reduce the potential for redness and irritation—and it’s gentle enough for use twice a day from the first day. It’s a good option for anyone who has experienced sensitivity in the past or is a beginner.

RETINOID TIP 2: Wear Sunscreen

Did you know Retinoids are sensitive to sunlight? This means when exposed to UV rays, Retinoids can break down. Not only are the broken-down ingredients less effective, they can be photosensitizing on skin, too. The result? Your skin may be more susceptible to sunburn. Wearing an SPF daily (and a week after discontinued use) is essential.

RETINOL TIP 3: Use It Preventatively

Using a Retinoid product in your 20’s and 30’s can be a smart move for your skin. “Incorporating Retinoid into your skincare routine preventively can be a proactive and effective approach to maintaining youthful skin,” says Schmalenberg. “By helping to boost collagen production and cellular turnover, Retinoid products can help address early signs of aging before they become pronounced.”

RETINOL TIP 4: Be Patient

Retinoids are some of the most powerful skincare ingredients, but they take time to work—don’t expect results overnight. “It can take as little as two weeks or up to two months before you see visible results,” says Schmalenberg. Whatever you do, avoid the temptation to increase frequency or the amount of Retinoid you use (a pea-size is all you need). More isn’t always better. It’s consistency that’s key.
Hyperpigmentation including acne marks and dark spots in skin.

WHAT STEP IS A RETINOID SERUM IN A SKIN CARE ROUTINE?

Like any face serum in your skincare routine, a Retinoid serum is applied after cleansing and toning. “Clean skin provides an ideal canvas for Retinoid to be effectively absorbed,” says Schmalenberg. A great choice for cleansing and toning before applying a Retinoid serum: Checks and Balances ™ Milky Oil Cleanser removes dirt, oil and impurities without stripping or drying, and Mega-Mushroom Treatment Lotion preps skin for your next steps.

After applying a Retinoid serum, like Plantscription™ Active Wrinkle Correction Serum, wait for it to fully absorb and then apply a moisturizer. Our favorite—and an excellent complement to our Retinoid serum—is Plantscription™ Lifting + Firming Cream, to help refresh skin’s youthful bounce and create a more lifted look over time. Some Retinoid users prefer the sandwich method when applying their Retinoid Serum. This technique provides an extra layer of hydration to help ensure skin stays calm and soothed.

HOW DO I KNOW IF RETINOID IS RIGHT FOR ME?

The truth is everyone can benefit from using Retinoid. By incorporating a Retinoid product into your skincare routine early on, you can set a strong foundation for healthy and youthful-looking skin in the years to come. Using Retinoid as you start experiencing visible signs of aging is a valuable tool to help address fine lines and wrinkles, uneven tone, and overall skin vitality.

AM I READY FOR RETINOID?

Retinoid can be a powerful ally in the quest to maintain skin’s youthful appearance and improve the look of signs of aging. Understanding its benefits, usage and how it works on the skin can help you confidently start your retinol journey. “Being ready for Retinoid is simply being informed,” says Schmalenberg. Whether you're ready to start using a Retinoid product or still have a few questions, you can chat with an Origins Skin Expert or book a one-on-one appointment to find your best Retinoid routine.