How satisfying to write about two of my absolute favorite skincare actives in one post, aka resveratrol vs. retinol. I love retinol serums as much as I do resveratrol, either in a glass or in skincare. Even if I’ve always taken a simple approach to my beauty regimen, I constantly keep these two heroes nearby. Separately, they are indeed two powerhouses, great for all skin types, but can you use resveratrol with retinol?
Resveratrol vs. retinol
Resveratrol is a powerful antioxidant needed to stay shielded so that free radicals don’t wreak havoc on the skin. But its strengths don’t stop here. Resveratrol improves cellular function, calms skin, soothes inflammation, brightens and hydrates. How could you not love it? On top of everything, resveratrol has small molecules that allow it to penetrate the skin, going deep into the tissue layers where it does its magic. It’s the fitting addition to your skin protection arsenal.
On the other hand, retinol is a vitamin A derivative that increases cell turnover, helping prevent wrinkles and diminish dark spots. Besides, its tiny molecules go beneath the epidermis where it stimulates collagen production. The result? Plump, smooth, clear, and wrinkle-free skin. The right way to target skin repair.
Can you use resveratrol with retinol?
Yes, you can use resveratrol with retinol, making your skin seal myriad benefits of protection and repair. As the skincare loyal that you are, you know during the day, the skin needs antioxidants for prevention and, at night, repairing ingredients. So it makes total sense to say use resveratrol in your AM routine and leave retinol for the night. But resveratrol isn’t the best ingredient to use in the morning since it’s easily deactivated by sunlight. So, the right way to use resveratrol with retinol together is in your nightly skincare regimen.
Pairing resveratrol with retinol helps diminish the potentially irritating effects since resveratrol has anti-inflammatory benefits that aid in minimizing redness and peeling associated with retinol use. This is great news for those with easily reactive skin. David McDaniel, M.D., a dermatologist in Virginia Beach, Virginia, specializing in antioxidants and anti-aging medicine, said via Vogue, “We can combine fairly potent retinoids with these antioxidants (resveratrol) for enhanced anti-aging benefits, and also avoid most of the irritation typical of vitamin A creams.”
The verdict
All in all, if you want to use resveratrol with retinol, do it at night. It’s a powerful skincare cocktail that’ll make your skin love you back — and it does all the work while you sleep. Finally, our skincare dictionary and ingredients cheat list are great places to keep an eye on all skincare ingredients and learn how you can mix them for dramatic results.
