Beauty Elixir

Vitamin A

Retinol: what to mix it with

The most studied over-the-counter anti-ageing active. Retinol speeds up cell turnover, softens fine lines, fades marks and keeps pores clear, but it can cause dryness, peeling and sun sensitivity while your skin adjusts.

Typical strength
0.1% – 1%
Best time
PM
Irritation
Price in India
₹500 – ₹2,500
Helps with
Aging, acne, texture and pigmentation
Pregnancy
Usually avoided in pregnancy and breastfeeding

How to use Retinol

Start 2–3 nights a week on dry skin, a pea-sized amount for the whole face, then build up. Always wear sunscreen the next morning.

Pairs beautifully with

Niacinamide Hyaluronic Acid Ceramides Centella Asiatica Squalane Sunscreen Snail Mucin Panthenol Aloe Vera Urea Polyglutamic Acid

Don't mix with

Adapalene Benzoyl Peroxide Tretinoin Retinal

Use at different times from

Vitamin C Glycolic Acid Lactic Acid Mandelic Acid Salicylic Acid PHA Copper Peptides Sulfur

Safe to layer with

Azelaic Acid Peptides Bakuchiol Tranexamic Acid Alpha Arbutin Kojic Acid Vitamin E Ferulic Acid Hydroquinone Tea Tree Oil Licorice Extract Glutathione Zinc PCA

Guides

Ingredients for acne & breakoutsIngredients for dark spots, tanning & pigmentationIngredients for fine lines & anti-ageingIngredients for uneven texture & bumps Is Retinol safe in pregnancy?

Retinol vs alternatives

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