Retinol Sandwiching the TikTok trend…

female with hand on face eyes closed

Have you heard about the latest skincare trend on TikTok? Its called Retinol Sandwiching, a method of applying retinol between two applications of a moisturizer to minimize the drying and irritation of retinol.  By using this layered approach, retinol is able to do its job while your skin stays calm and nourished.

Retinol is an incredibly effective skincare ingredient with an impressive list of benefits. It stimulates skin cell turnover, diminishes hyperpigmentation, and regulates oily skin to reduce the appearance of acne.  It also assists with collagen production to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles.  Basically, it has a little something for everyone and can be found in lotions, creams, serums and eye masks. Unfortunately, many people find retinol difficult to tolerate. For some, it can cause the skin to become flaky, red and irritated which is the exact opposite of what people are trying to achieve.  This is where Retinol Sandwiching comes into the picture.

Sandwich to minimize the issues common to retinol

Applying retinol between two moisturizers can lessen the discomfort and allow the skin to absorb the retinol without the irritation.  And, for those who have never tried retinol, Retinol Sandwiching is a great way of introducing retinol into the skin before going full strength on its own.

One caveat, since retinol can be broken down by ultraviolet decreasing its effectiveness, we recommend applying your Retinol Sandwich at night.  Here’s a step-by-step guide for how to create your Retinol Sandwich using Reviva Labs products: 

Cleanse skin with your favorite Reviva Labs cleanser.

  1. While your skin is still damp, apply a thin layer of a moisturizer.  Reviva Labs Intercell Hyaluronic Acid Night Gel is perfect for this step.  It’s quick absorbing and creates the moisturizer barrier you need to keep skin hydrated.
  2. Allow Intercell Hyaluronic Acid Night Gel to dry completely.
  3. Apply a layer of retinol.  Reviva Labs Advanced Retinol Serum contains 0.1% Retinol which helps minimize sensitivities and irritation as it improves your skin.
  4. Alternatively, we recommend using Bakuchiol Plus Serum.  Bakuchiol is a natural retinol alternative for anti-aging.  And, because Bakuchiol Plus Serum is formulated with other potent natural anti-aging ingredients like Alfalfa and Artichoke, we recommend combing Advanced Retinol Serum with Bakuchiol Plus Serum to maximize results.
  5. Once Advanced Retinol Serum absorbs completely, follow up with our Collagen Revitalizing Crème.  It’s also formulated with bakuchiol to help smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 

And, that’s it!  So if you’ve put off using products formulated with retinol due to its reputation for causing irritation and redness, try this simple procedure.  You’ll be glowing in no time!