Your Ultimate Guide to Starting Retinoids in Your Skincare Routine: Expert Tips from Harborne’s Premier Aesthetic Clinic

Discover essential tips for introducing retinoids like tretinoin into your skincare routine. Dr. Kaur, a skilled aesthetic doctor at our Harborne clinic in Birmingham, shares expert advice on starting retinoids, addressing acne, hyperpigmentation, and more. Learn how to use retinoids effectively and achieve youthful, radiant skin.

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on starting retinoids, an incredible tool for achieving beautiful, rejuvenated skin. Skilled in anti-aging treatments and regenerative medicine, our doctor at our MY COSMETIC DOCTOR clinic in Harborne, Birmingham, UK, is here to help you navigate the journey towards flawless skin. Whether you’re dealing with acne, hyperpigmentation, fine lines/ wrinkles or melasma, this guide will provide valuable insights and recommendations for incorporating retinoids like tretinoin into your skincare routine.

Starting Retinoids: Dos and Don’ts

 • Begin Gradually: Optimal results come with patience. Start with a pea-sized amount of retinoids or gel every other night, gradually increasing to nightly use over several weeks.

 • Break from Active Ingredients: Allow your skin to adjust by avoiding exfoliants like glycolic, salicylic, or lactic acid for the first few weeks. Reserve retinoid application for nights when exfoliation is skipped.

 • Postpone Intensive Treatments: Refrain from chemical peels, waxing, or laser treatments for at least two weeks after starting retinoid to minimise irritation.

2: Essential Steps for Success

 • Moderate Application: Apply only a pea-sized amount of retinoid, avoiding delicate areas around the eyes, nostrils, and mouth to prevent excessive irritation.

 • Gentle Cleansing: Use a mild cleanser to maintain skin balance and avoid further irritation. Skip harsh scrubs and exfoliants that may aggravate the skin.

 • Consistent Moisturisation: Combat dryness by regularly moisturising your skin. Non-comedogenic moisturisers are ideal for oily skin, while drier skin types may benefit from a richer moisturiser. We love Obagi Hydrate. Moisturisers containing glycerin and squalene are great for oily skin. 

 • Sun Protection: Shield your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day, reapplying every two hours if you spend time outdoors.

 • Patience and Persistence: Understand that tretinoin takes time to yield visible results. Be consistent in your application and remain patient. If you have any concerns, consult Dr. Kaur, our skin expert.

When to Cease Tretinoin

• Severe Reactions: If you experience a severe reaction to retinoid, discontinue use and seek medical advice immediately.

 • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Cease retinoid if you are trying to conceive, become pregnant, or start breastfeeding.

Conclusion:

Embrace the transformative power of retinoids as you embark on your skincare journey. With dedication, guidance from Dr. Kaur, and adherence to our expert tips, you’ll be well on your way to achieving the radiant, youthful skin you desire. For any questions or concerns along the way, don’t hesitate to consult Dr. Kaur at our esteemed aesthetic clinic in Harborne, Birmingham, UK. Your skin deserves the best care possible.

At My Cosmetic Doctor based in Harborne, Birmingham, in-depth skin consultation with Dr Kaur are £50. Prescription grade retinoids from Obagi range of skincare products are more effective that over the counter retinoids. So if you are ready to step up your skincare, book a skincare consultation. Dr Kaur works with your budget and lifestyle when it comes to designing a bespoke treatment plan. If you want to spend more on in-clinic treatments for example, like chemical peels and profhilo, she can recommend a more affordable skincare range to get you started on an effective regime that will complement any in-clinic treatments.