We’re pretty sure you’ve worked some formulation of retinol into your skincare regimen by now. But have you chosen this particular version of the Vitamin A-derivative for a reason—bearing in mind, perhaps, the dryness/oiliness of your skin? Or simply jumped in on the bandwagon, and chose one that everyone on the internet was scrambling to drop into their carts? Ah. That’s where you might’ve gone wrong. Here’s a fact—retinol is available in multiple strengths, in conjunction with varying actives to counter different problems, and in different forms. And we’re going to break two of them down for you: creams and serums. Yeah. There’s a legitimate difference between them.
Reti-Know-It-All? Let’s Find Out
Retinol Creams vs Serums
It’s pretty simple. It boils down to the science behind skincare layering. A serum has a lighter consistency than a cream, higher concentrations of actives, blends into your skin seamlessly, and is grease-free and water-based. And that’s why experts advise picking lightweight serum-based retinol for oil-prone skin.
If you’re thinking, “I need a good anti-ageing serum”, this plant-based serum by Neemli Naturals is one of the finest formulas out there. Crafted to combat signs of ageing, boost collagen production, and accelerate recovery and renewal of your cells, this serum reinstates your radiance, firms and tightens, controls acne and reveals new, youthful skin over time. And it’s infused with the richness of vitamin C, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid! A magical elixir, no?
A cream, on the other hand, is thicker in consistency, and it forms a protective layer over the surface of your skin to trap moisture as well as other skincare formulas you’ve slathered onto your skin. And that’s why cream-based retinol is recommended for skin that’s dry. If you have oily skin, creams can clog your pores, and induce breakouts. Even sensitive skin can benefit more from a cream than a serum—since retinol can trigger peeling, inflammation, and flaking on the surface, creams can neutralize these side effects with their moisturizing ingredients (like petrolatum and mineral oil). A cream can, naturally, feel a little heavier on the skin than a serum. A serum doesn’t quite leave behind a residue on the skin, or feel sticky to the touch. But, again, how your skin responds to a formula takes precedence over these factors. You don’t want to end up intensifying your breakouts by picking a serum over cream because it’s ‘lighter’, do you?
This moisturizing retinol-based cream by St. Botanica is ideal for undoing all the damage caused to your skin by prolonged exposure to environmental stressors, and, thus, preventing the development of lines, wrinkles, and other signs of ageing. A PETA-certified cruelty-free formula, this cream doesn’t contain harmful ingredients like parabens, sulfates, and phthalates, and it rejuvenates, tightens, and hydrates the skin instantly! You can wrap up your nighttime regimen with this moisturizer.
Here’s a side-note you didn’t ask for: even if you’ve chosen a retinol-based serum that contains hydrating actives, you must conclude your routine with a moisturizer—moisturising is sacrosanct, and it’s a step that you mustn’t skip. And because retinol isn’t the mildest active in the game, you must introduce the formula—whichever you’ve chosen—to your skin gradually. Experts recommend applying the formula once or twice a week initially. And just a pea-sized drop right before sleeping is enough. If you’re using a retinol-based serum, layer your go-to moisturizer on top of it. And if it’s a retinol-based cream, just conclude your nighttime skincare regimen with it.
The Bottom Line
As long as you’re employing a retinoid into you’re regimen, you’re good, but finding one that reacts with your skin perfectly is important too. We’d recommend consulting your dermatologist to understand what form of retinol will suit you the most—along with bearing in mind its strength, accompanying ingredients, and factors alike to produce long-term results.
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