At Glow Recipe, Chang and Lee have opted for tinted jars that have been coated to protect the retinol formulas from UV rays. They also always recommend storing actives in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight.
Don't stockpile retinol because of how readily it degrades. Prystowsky suggests only buying what you need for a month at a time. Be sure to look at the "best use by" date on bottles.
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Encapsulated Retinol and Sensitive Skin
Some skin care brands report that encapsulated retinol is better for sensitive skin. Gohara says that encapsulated retinol is less likely to cause irritation because its delivery into skin is controlled. It should not irritate surrounding structures and it should target the components it is meant to stimulate. This makes it a good choice for retinol newbies. She like PCA Skin Intensive Age Refining Treatment 0.5% Pure Retinol Night, $110. It has OmniSome technology which encapsulates volatile ingredients in layers like an onion. The layers gradually break apart as the product enters skin which results in a time-released formula with the intention of less irritation.
However, Prystowsky says to still be cautious. "Encapsulation ensures an active product that is good for people with sensitive skin," she says. "But, even retinol can be overused and cause irritation. So, everyone needs to assess optimal frequency of use for their skin type." If you're unsure, consult your dermatologist.
