During the summer can I still use retinol?

Retinol and its derivatives have been one of the most used ingredients in cosmetics. And it is not for less since it has magnificent renewing and anti-aging properties , but like everything in life nothing is perfect... The least beautiful part of retinol is that it can cause irritation and sensitivity on the skin, being zero recommended for sensitive skin. In addition, by refining the skin it is more exposed and vulnerable to the sun's rays.

Bakuchiol came to the world of cosmetics precisely to address this retinol problem, since it is considered a very good vegetable alternative to it, and the results of both have been compared in various studies.

It is a compound naturally present in the seeds and leaves of the babchi plant, psoralea corylifolia. Stimulates the production of collagen thereby preserving the strength and integrity of the skin and reducing expression lines and wrinkles. It has also been proven to significantly reduce damage caused by ultraviolet radiation , such as hyperpigmentation.

It has been used since time immemorial in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. However, it is now that western cosmetics is promoting it to a greater extent as a natural alternative to retinoids . Its constitution is not the same as that of retinol, but the effect on the skin is very similar because it stimulates the retinoid receptors that are responsible for the synthesis of type 1 collagen in the dermis. It also stimulates cell renewal in the epidermis.

Is retinol not as perfect as they say?

Nothing in this life is. Although it has excellent properties, it is also a rather unstable and photosensitive molecule that degrades after exposure to ultraviolet light, visible light, acidity... Retinol is not exactly photosensitizing, but its use refines and renews the skin and that is why it can be more exposed if it is not properly cared for and protected.

That is why surely you have heard that its use in summer is not recommended . On the one hand, as we have commented, it is a very unstable molecule; It doesn't make much sense to apply retinol and expose yourself unprotected to intense summer sunlight as it would degrade, and therefore, it wouldn't make sense to apply it. On the other hand, as it is a cosmetic ingredient that renews the skin, it can leave it too exposed and cause irritation.

Can we use retinol in summer?

The experts in the sector do not arrive at a clear answer, there are some who do not consider its application a problem and others who take into account various other factors to advise against it. We always talk about discouraging, never prohibiting because each skin is a world that reacts differently and has individual needs.

We consider that its use in summer is not recommended for the following 3 reasons:

1. Sun exposure

As we have mentioned before, retinol is an unstable molecule that tends to degrade with sun exposure.

2. Tolerance

Summer is precisely the worst time to apply this ingredient due to the common reactions it causes: irritation, sensitivity, flaking ... These reactions together with high sun exposure, sea salt, pool chlorine, etc. They aggravate skin irritation, being tremendously uncomfortable and being able to increase its irritation.

3. Vulnerability

It is an ingredient with excellent renovating properties, and that is why the results it produces are so popular. But we have to be very aware that our skin will be thinner after use and we must protect it from sun exposure (without forgetting) and take proper care of it to avoid burns and sensitivity.

Is Bakuchiol a good alternative to retinol in summer?

Bakuchiol is a new ingredient that is causing a stir in the cosmetic world due to its similar properties to retinol with the advantage that it does not cause any type of irritation or sensitivity , so if you have never used retinol or your skin is sensitive and/or has a tendency to react easily with acids or renewing ingredients, Bakuchiol is a very good alternative to use both in summer and during the rest of the year.