The do’s and don’t of using retinol.

You're standing at your bathroom basin. Smiling at yourself in the mirror. Looking cute, as always. Towel wrapped around you. Products staring at you. You're feeling retinol-ready.

But #letsbefrank, you've got a few questions before you begin. Totally normal. Here's the retinol rulebook.

How often should I use retinol?

Start once a week. This allows your skin to build tolerance gradually rather than overwhelming it from day one. Once your skin has adjusted with no signs of irritation, increase to twice a week, then up to 3 nights a week depending on how your skin responds.

If you're using retinol for the first time, you might experience skin purging — a short-term flare-up as retinol accelerates cell turnover and brings existing congestion to the surface. Things might look worse before they look better. That's normal. Stick with it.

When should I apply retinol?

At night, always. After cleansing with my Enzyme Face Cleanser, apply my Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum to damp skin, then follow with retinol on your face, neck, and décolletage. Let it absorb, then apply my Caffeinated Face Moisturiser to seal it in.

Retinol works overnight while you sleep. In the morning, cleanse, and always apply SPF. Your skin will be more sensitive to UV, so sunscreen is non-negotiable.

How do I apply retinol?

Apply a few pumps of my Rewind Retinol Serum to your fingertips and gently press onto your skin, avoiding the eye area. Work it in with light circular motions. That's it. Job done.

Key tips for using retinol

1. Retinol works overnight. Cleanse your face in the morning to start the day fresh.
2. Wear SPF every morning without fail. Your skin is more prone to sun sensitivity when using retinol, so protect it.
3. Don't apply retinol on your eyelids. The skin there is too thin and delicate. Use my Brightening Eye Serum for the eye area instead.
4. Don't use retinol and AHAs or BHAs on the same night. Too many actives at once can lead to dryness and irritation. Alternate your exfoliation sessions with your retinol nights rather than using both together.
5. Don't forget your neck and décolletage. Retinol is just as beneficial further down. Apply it there too and thank me later.
6. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, avoid retinol entirely. Speak to your GP or midwife about safe alternatives.

Kettle brewed. Tea spilled. Hair up. Skin cleansed.

You're officially retinol-ready, babe.

x frank