These Skin Care Steps Are Non-Negotiable, According to Dermatologists

If you're going to choose just one skin care ingredient to invest in and use regularly (not including SPF), it ought to be a retinoid product. Retinol is available over the counter, and its stronger version, retinoic acid, is available via prescription.

"Retinoids are the only scientifically proven cream to have an effect on the aging process. They help our skin exfoliate and stimulate superficial collagen, which is what our skin needs to stay youthful," says Dr. Adarsh Vijay Mudgil of NYC's Mudgil Dermatology. "They can be irritating and cause the skin to get red and flaky. Some folks may only be able to use a retinoid two to three times per week. The key here is listening to your skin."

We recommend working your way up in both potency and frequency, upping your dosage once every four weeks or so. The flaking, redness and sensitivity that Mudgil mentions is a process called "retinization" in which your skin gets used to the product. This usually passes after 12 weeks.

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