Anyone with a vested interest in skincare will know Vitamin A, better known as retinol, has become the holy grail ingredient for a glowy complexion.
Retinol works to increase our cell turnover, in turn aiding in collagen production, unclogging pores, improving texture and tone and reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
While it’s standard practice for our skincare routines to stretch as far as our decolletage these days, you may have wondered if retinol’s glorious benefits can extend to the rest of your body.
Can You Use Retinol On Your Body?
The short answer? Absolutely.
“Using retinol on the body offers an array of benefits including enhancing the appearance of wrinkled/leathery skin, reducing sunspots, and rejuvenating skin’s firmness,” Desiree Stordahl, Paula’s Choice Skincare’s Director of Applied Research & Education, tells marie claire Australia.
In fact, retinol is likely to be better tolerated on your body than your face. So, if past sensitivity to the ingredient has left you weary, using a retinol body lotion may offer more pleasant results.
“If you’re hesitant to try retinol for the body due to sensitivity experienced on your facial skin, keep in mind that your skin below the neck is likely to tolerate it better,” Desiree explains.
“Similarly, you may be able to apply retinol to the body more frequently than on the face.”
How To Use Retinol Body Lotion
If you’ve dabbled (or delved deep) into the retinol and retinoid space, you’ll also be aware that with all the amazing benefits of vitamin A comes some fine print, namely sun sensitivity.
“Whether you’re using retinol on the face or the body, it’s essential to follow up with sunscreen during the day,” Desiree tells us.
“Retinol plays its part to help skin look younger, but sunscreen is the first line of defence in protecting against signs of ageing like wrinkled skin, discolourations, and loss of firmness.”
Desiree also recommends opting for an ultra-hydrating formula for a double dose of skincare goodness.
“Opt for a retinol body product that comes in a moisturising formula that spreads easily over a larger surface area. This can multitask as your daily body lotion while taking deeper care of your skin.”
The Best Retinol Body Lotions
Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment, $43 at Paula’s Choice
Rejuvenate, firm and even skin tone with this moisturising lotion that combines 0.1% mid-strength retinol and natural butters and plant oils.
Brightening Body Lotion, $89 at Neutriderm
Retinol, niacinamide and shea butter combine in this potent yet gentle body lotion to remove build up of dead cells, increase cell turn over and smooth skin for a brighter, firmer looking appearance.
Aspect Hand & Body Cream, $39 at AdoreBeauty
This powerful cream is formulated with not only vitamin A a.k.a retinol, it’s packed with vitamins B, C & E to smooth skin texture and deliver antioxidants.
Skin Gym R-Dew Retinol Body Lotion, $32 at REVOLVE and Beauty Bay
Give your skin a hydrated glow with this plumping cream formulated with an antioxidant-rich blend of berries and retinol to smooth and firm skin.
Retinol + Ferulic Acid Body Treatment Cream, $26 at iHerb
In addition to the benefits of the retinol found in this cream, there is also a base of ferulic acid which promotes firmer skin by fighting visible sun damage.
Versed Press Restart Retinol Body Lotion, $32 at Cult Beauty
Give dry, scaly skin and boost of hydration with the added bonus of skin-smoothing retinol with this cult body lotion.
Hada Labo Night Body Serum – Anti-ageing
Add a hydrating body lotion to your nighttime routine that doubles as an anti-aging retinol while you sleep.
Related stories
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
