First thing’s first, let's discuss what a retinoid is and how it works. Retinoid is the umbrella term for vitamin A derivatives, including retinol – arguably the most well-known and popular member of the family. Other examples of retinoid ingredients include: tretinoin, a prescription-grade retinoid used for both anti-ageing and acne; adapalene, a gentler prescription-grade retinoid used predominantly for acne; retinal/retinaldehyde, an oxidised form of retinol; tazarotene, a prescription-grade retinoid used to treat acne and specific skin conditions; and retinyl esters, a very mild and stable retinoid. 

Whichever deriviative you opt for, they all convert to retinoic acid at some stage, which is the most potent and active component. All retinoids help to speed up cell turnover, which is the rate at which your skin sheds dead cells. As you age, this process naturally slows down, and when these dead cells start to pile up, your skin can look dull, making wrinkles appear more pronounced. Retinoids kick cell turnover into gear, allowing for fresh, radiant cells to surface, creating a smooth, renewed appearance and reducing the look of lines, wrinkles and pores.

The best time to start using retinoids? There’s no set time frame, however the general consensus among experts is to introduce a retinoid serum in your mid-20s to early 30s. While there’s no rush, a gentle retinoid formula can be used as a preventative measure or to tackle early signs of ageing such as fine lines and reduced elasticity. It’s also never too late to start – even if you have deeper wrinkles, you’ll still reap the benefits of a great retinoid. Case in point? After four weeks using Smart Clinical Repair™ Wrinkle-Correcting Serum, 82% saw a reduction in the look of lines like forehead, nasolabial and marionette**.

If you are just starting out with retinoids, or have specific areas you wish to target, our new Smart Clinical Repair™ AM/PM Retinoid Balm is a must-try. In an innovative stick format for targeted application, this concentrated retinoid softens and plumps the look of fine, dry lines and targets deeper wrinkles too. It's formulated with plumping hyaluronic acid and 1% retinoid to gently resurface and reduce the look of wrinkles. Apply directly to lines AM and PM to target wrinkles on the spot – and always follow with sunscreen.