MISTAKE 1. APPLYING RETINOL TO DAMP OR WET SKIN
This allows the retinol to ride the water molecule and absorb deeper into the skin, increasing redness, peeling and irritation. Make sure skin is clean and dry before applying your retinol. The exception to this is applying Formula 28 Perfector and/or Pro Definition first, allow them to absorb completely then follow with your retinol.
MISTAKE 2. ONLY SPOT TREATING WITH YOUR RETINOL
Don't just apply retinol in certain areas on your skin, apply it to your entire face, neck and décolleté and even up towards the eyes to address the "crows feet" area.
MISTAKE 3. USING TO MUCH RETINOL
Slathering it on too thick is a no no, don't treat it like a moisturizer. Apply a nice even layer on the entire face, neck and décolleté then apply your eye cream and moisturizer afterwards.
MISTAKE 4. JUMPING IN TO FAST
Start your retinol use slowly, let your skin acclimate. Use my 3x5x7 rule when starting retinol or other actives like glycolic, lactic, salicylic acid serums or treatments. Start 3 nights a week the first week ( or two, depending on your skins sensitivity), Then move to 5 nights a week for another week or two, then move to 7 nights a week. The neck and décolleté tend to be a little more sensitive so you may stay at 3 or 5 times on those areas always.
MISTAKE 5. NOT USING SPF 30 OR HIGHER DAILY
After all this dedication to reverse damage and aging in your skin, PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT! Make sure you are using SPF 30 everyday, rain or shine. Retinol can make your skin a bit more sensitive to the sun, intensifying the damage potential, so sunscreen is a must (and no your makeup doesn't count, sorry. )