This mistake with retinoids sabotages your anti-aging routine, says a dermatologist

You’ve invested in retinoid-based skincare to fight the signs of time. Yet your anti-aging routine isn’t producing the results you’d hoped for. According to dermatologist Daniel Sugai, a common mistake is sabotaging your efforts without you even realizing it.

The mistake this dermatologist says ruins your anti-aging routine

Retinoid-based products have become indispensable for reducing wrinkles, fine lines and imperfections. But the problem lies not in the product itself, but in its use. According to dermatologist Daniel Sugai, interviewed by She Finds, applying too many retinoids to the face is the number-one mistake.

This skin overdose can cause undesirable effects. In short, you risk dermatitis, excessive dryness and irritation. Sensitive areas such as around the eyes, nose and mouth are particularly vulnerable.

“If you’re depositing tiny dots the size of peas all over the face, that’s way too much.”

The right amount for effective application

In fact, a very small amount is enough. The equivalent of the size of a single pea covers the entire face. Divide this dose evenly between the different areas to be treated. Apply only in the evening.

Don’t forget to moisturize afterwards. This step helps protect the skin barrier and prevent feelings of tightness.

The layering technique to optimize your anti-aging routine

For reactive skin, there is a method that limits the risk of irritation. It involves superimposing several layers of skin care in a precise order. Specifically, first apply a serum or a little cream before your retinoids.

• Apply a serum or light cream as a first layer
• Use the equivalent of a pea-sized amount of retinoids for the entire face.
• Finish with a coat of moisturizer
• Apply in the evening only
• Apply sunscreen the next morning

Finish with another layer of moisturizer to create a protective sandwich effect. The next morning, sun protection remains essential. Retinoids make the skin more sensitive to UV rays.

Fear of retinoids, the other obstacle to an effective anti-aging routine

In his interview with the media, Daniel Sugai highlighted another common obstacle. Many people are reluctant to incorporate retinoids into their skincare routine for fear of side effects. This apprehension deprives them of the benefits of these active ingredients.

The reason for this fear has a name: skin purging. When you start retinoid treatment, imperfections may temporarily become more pronounced. Underlying blemishes rise to the surface before disappearing.

Understanding skin purging so you don’t give up

This phenomenon can appear within two to three weeks of the start of treatment. However, the dermatologist points out that he very rarely observes this reaction in his patients. Acne-prone skin is more prone to it.

Once this phase is over, the skin becomes smoother and more radiant. According to the specialist, giving up retinoids for fear of skin purging would be a mistake. The long-term benefits for your anti-aging routine far outweigh this temporary discomfort.

Getting started with retinoids

Before incorporating these active ingredients into your anti-aging routine, a consultation is recommended. A dermatologist can determine which product is best suited to your skin type. This precaution avoids dosage errors and adverse reactions.

In practice, start with spaced-out applications to let your skin adapt. Gradually increase the frequency according to your tolerance. Watch for signs of irritation and adjust accordingly.

Your anti-aging routine will gain in effectiveness with these simple adjustments. Less product, more regularity and good hydration are the keys to success.

• anti-aging routine