The 1 Thing You Need To Do Differently If You Use Retinol In The Summer

As the summer months approach, many of us are eager to trade in our heavy winter skincare routines for lighter, brighter formulas that won’t clog our pores or weigh us down. But if you’re a retinol user, you may need to make some adjustments to your routine to ensure you’re getting the most out of this powerful skincare ingredient.

Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, is a popular skincare staple that can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin texture, and even out skin tone. However, it can also make your skin more sensitive to the sun, which can be a major concern during the summer months when UV rays are at their strongest.

So, what’s the one thing you need to do differently if you use retinol in the summer?

Use a Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen with at Least SPF 30

When you use retinol, your skin becomes more susceptible to sun damage, which can lead to premature aging, dark spots, and even skin cancer. This is because retinol increases cell turnover, revealing newer, more delicate skin that’s more prone to damage. To combat this, it’s essential to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day, even on cloudy days.

But not just any sunscreen will do. Look for a formula that’s specifically designed to work well with retinol, such as a physical sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These ingredients create a physical barrier on the skin’s surface, protecting it from UV rays without irritating or clogging pores.

Why SPF 30?

You may be wondering why SPF 30 is the magic number. The truth is, SPF 30 offers the perfect balance of protection and wearability. While higher SPFs may offer more protection, they can also be thicker and more likely to clog pores, which is a major no-no when using retinol. SPF 30, on the other hand, provides excellent protection against UVB rays, which are the primary cause of sunburn and skin damage.

Additional Tips for Using Retinol in the Summer

While using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 is the most critical step, there are a few additional tips to keep in mind when using retinol in the summer:

 Use retinol at night: Retinol can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so it’s best to apply it at night and follow up with a broad-spectrum sunscreen in the morning.
 Start with a lower concentration: If you’re new to retinol or have sensitive skin, consider starting with a lower concentration (around 0.25%) and gradually increasing as your skin becomes more tolerant.
 Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize: Retinol can be drying, so be sure to follow up with a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and comfortable.

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy the benefits of retinol while keeping your skin safe and protected from the sun’s harmful rays. Happy summer, and happy skincare!