What does retinol do for skin

Retinol is one of skincare’s most talked-about ingredients - but what does it actually do? From fine lines to uneven texture, discover the benefits of retinol, how to use it safely, and why bakuchiol is becoming the gentler alternative skincare lovers are reaching for.

If you’ve ever looked at the ingredient list on a skincare product and thought, “What exactly does that do?” , you’re not alone. One ingredient that comes up time and time again is retinol - the skincare world’s favourite overachiever.

Found in countless creams, serums, and treatments, retinol has built a reputation for helping skin look smoother, fresher, and more even over time. But while it’s popular, it’s also an ingredient that comes with plenty of questions.

What is retinol? What does it actually do for skin? And is it right for everyone?

Here’s everything you need to know.

What is retinol and what is it good for?

Retinol is a form of vitamin A commonly used in skincare products. It’s known for supporting skin renewal and improving the appearance of texture, tone, and fine lines.

You’ll usually find retinol (along with retinal and retinoids) in products designed to support ageing skin, uneven texture, or blemish-prone complexions. Part of what makes retinol so popular is its ability to encourage skin cell turnover.

In simple terms? It helps older skin cells shed more quickly, making way for fresher-looking skin underneath.

Different retinol products come in different strengths, typically ranging from low percentages for beginners to more concentrated formulas designed for experienced users. Stronger retinoids are sometimes prescribed by medical professionals for specific skin concerns, such as body and face acne .

What does retinol do for skin?

Retinol is often used to support smoother, brighter-looking skin over time. Because it encourages skin renewal, many people use it as part of a routine targeting visible signs of ageing and uneven texture.

Here are some of the most common reasons people add retinol into their routine:

• Fine lines and wrinkles . Retinol is commonly used to help soften the appearance of fine lines and improve the look of skin texture over time.
• Uneven skin tone and pigmentation . By encouraging skin cell turnover, retinol can help improve the appearance of uneven tone and post-sun skin texture.
• Blemish-prone skin . Some people use retinol as part of a routine for blemish-prone skin, as it can help support clearer-looking skin and reduce the appearance of congestion.
• Rough or uneven skin . Retinol is often used to support smoother-feeling skin and a more refined-looking complexion.

How to use retinol

Retinol can be a brilliant addition to your skincare routine. But it’s definitely an ingredient worth easing into.

The key? Start slowly, stay consistent, and don’t overdo it. Your skin barrier will thank you.

How to ease into using retinol for skin

If you’re new to retinol, gradual use is the best way to minimise irritation.

1. Patch test first. Before applying retinol to your face, test a small amount on one area of skin to check for sensitivity. If you have reactive or sensitive skin, it’s always worth speaking to a skincare professional first.
2. Start slowly. Try using retinol once a week to begin with, then gradually increase frequency depending on how your skin responds.
3. Build it into your evening routine. Once your skin feels comfortable, retinol can become part of your regular night time skincare routine.

When is the best time to use retinol on skin?

Retinol is best used in the evening.

That’s because ingredients like retinol can become less effective when exposed to sunlight, and freshly exfoliated skin can feel more sensitive during the day.

Here’s why night-time use tends to work best:

• Sunlight can affect stability. UV exposure may reduce retinol’s effectiveness.
• Skin can feel more sensitive. Retinol encourages skin renewal, which can leave skin feeling more delicate.
• Your evening routine is simpler. Using retinol at night helps avoid layering too many active ingredients together.

And yes: SPF the next morning is non-negotiable.

Is retinol safe to use?

For many people, retinol can be used safely when introduced gradually and applied correctly.

That said, it’s also known for causing dryness, redness, or irritation - especially if you jump in too quickly or use products that are too strong for your skin.

If your skin tends to be sensitive, there are gentler alternatives that can support a healthy-looking glow without the same level of irritation.

Skincare alternatives to retinol.

One ingredient growing in popularity is bakuchiol - a plant-derived alternative often used in skincare products designed to support smoother-looking skin.

Unlike retinol, bakuchiol is generally considered gentler and can often be used both morning and evening.

Here’s how they compare:

A simple retinol or bakuchiol skincare routine.

1. Cleanse . Start with a gentle cleanser and pat skin dry fully before applying active ingredients.
2. Apply eye serum . Use an eye cream around the eye contour area to support hydration. We love our Deep Lift Eye Cream around delicate skin.
3. Apply retinol or bakuchiol serum . Use a small amount and apply evenly across the face and neck. If your skin feels sensitive, try layering a moisturiser before retinol to help buffer the formula. For a gentler alternative, our Deep Lift Collagen-Boosting Serum is formulated with bakuchiol.
4. Let it absorb . Give your skincare a few minutes to settle before applying moisturiser.
5. Lock in hydration . Finish with a nourishing moisturiser to support hydration overnight. Our Deep Lift Night Cream works beautifully in an evening routine, while the Deep Lift Day Cream keeps skin feeling hydrated during the day.
6. Stay consistent. Skincare results take time. The best routines are the ones you actually stick to.

Now you know everything about retinol for the skin and gentle retinol alternatives, why not find out more about our best-selling collagen products to add to your skincare routine? Browse our Deep Lift Skincare collection and shop collagen supplements for an extra youthful boost .