WHAT IS THE RETINOL SANDWICH METHOD AND SHOULD YOU TRY IT
If you’ve been exploring ways to use Retinol without irritation, you might have heard of the “Retinol Sandwich” method. This playful name describes a simple technique intended to make Retinol less harsh on the skin. Curious how (and if) it works? We’re about to break it down step by step!
WHAT IS RETINOL AND WHY IS IT SO POPULAR?
Retinol, a form of Vitamin A, is one of the most popular and widely used ingredients in skincare due to its powerful benefits. It belongs to a group of compounds called retinoids, derived from Vitamin A and known for their ability to promote skin renewal.
Retinol stands out as a go-to choice in anti-aging routines because it helps improve skin texture, smooth out wrinkles and fine lines, fade dark spots, unclog pores and even combat acne. Its versatility and effectiveness have made it a cornerstone in many skincare regimens. However, Retinol can also have unwanted side effects on more sensitive skin, such as irritation, dehydration and dryness.
THE RETINOL SANDWICH METHOD EXPLAINED
Since Retinol can be harsh on some skin types, the “Retinol Sandwich” method aims to make it more tolerable by layering it between two hydrating products. This is believed to create a buffer or shield that minimizes irritation while still allowing the Retinol to do its job.
The steps to this method are:
- Clean and dry your face.
- Apply a hydrating moisturizer.
- Wait a few minutes for it to absorb into the skin.
- Next, apply the Retinol product. This could be a cream, gel or oil-based formula.
- Finally, top it off with another layer of the same moisturizer to seal in the Retinol and keep the skin hydrated.
TREND BREAKDOWN: DOES IT WORK?
Answer: This method may temporarily decrease Retinol irritation but sacrifices its effectiveness.
First, it’s important to note that this technique is not backed by scientific studies or officially recommended by dermatologists. The Retinol Sandwich method went viral on social media and quickly gained popularity without much scientific evidence to support it.
Technically, this method does cause less irritation to sensitive skin. However, that's only because the first layer of moisturizer creates a barrier that blocks the Retinol from reaching deeper layers of the skin. This means that while you may experience less irritation, you're not getting the full benefits of the Retinol product.
Plus, the additional moisturizer in the Retinol Sandwich method dilutes the Retinol product, making it less effective. Most Retinol products will instruct you to apply the treatment on a freshly cleansed face, so it’s best to follow the recommended usage for optimal results.
PROVEN TECHNIQUES TO REDUCE RETINOL IRRITATION
If you're struggling with Retinol irritation, there are many ways you can make it more tolerable without sacrificing its effectiveness. Here are our top solutions:
1. FIND A RETINOL PRODUCT WITH HYDRATING INGREDIENTS
The easiest way to avoid irritation is to choose a Retinol product that already contains hydrating ingredients. This means you only need a moisturizer after the treatment, and the formula will be gentler on your skin from the start.
We recommend our Retinol Rejuvenation Serum. With Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin A working hard to retain water and protect the skin, this serum is a great option for beginners.
2. USE AN ENCAPSULATED RETINOL FORMULA
Encapsulated skincare is designed to release the active ingredient slowly over time, reducing irritation and making it suitable for more sensitive skin types. Formulas with this technique work by creating a protective layer around the Retinol molecules, allowing them to penetrate deeper into the skin without causing irritation on the surface.
Luckily, our Retinol Rejuvenation Serum already has this technology! Its unique encapsulated Retinol formula ensures the product works effectively and gently, even on sensitive skin.
3. CONSULT WITH A PROFESSIONAL
If you're new to Retinol or struggling with irritation, it's always best to consult with a skincare professional. Retinol should be introduced slowly and in lower concentrations to build tolerance, and a professional can guide you on the suitable approach for your skin. Find your local GlyMed Pro to gain personalized recommendations and guidance.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT MOISTURIZER FOR YOUR RETINOL ROUTINE
The Retinol Sandwich method got one thing right: after applying Retinol, your skin's moisture barrier needs to be replenished with a moisturizer that suits your skin type. The right moisturizer will soothe irritation and complement the effects of Retinol by providing additional anti-aging benefits.
Our Daily Repair Cream is the perfect way to top off your Retinol routine. Formulated with powerful antioxidants and nourishing botanicals like Shea Butter and Jojoba, it hydrates and repairs stressed skin while supporting the effects of Retinol. This product also fights against acne-causing bacteria, making it a great choice for oily or combination skin types.
If your skin is more prone to dryness and dehydration, use our Ultra Hydro Gel after your Retinol treatment but before moisturizing. This lightweight formula contains 10% Hyaluronic Acid to boost hydration levels and lock in moisture—perfect for minimizing Retinol irritation. Then, finish with our Vitamin E Cream moisturizer that increases skin hydration by 25%.
No matter your skin condition or skin type, you don’t need to do the Retinol sandwich method if you have the right Retinol product (and moisturizer!) for you! Once you find the perfect pharmaceutical-grade product made with quality ingredients and tested for effectiveness, you can enjoy Retinol's benefits without compromising your skin's health.