The visible effects of retinol will depend on the strength of the product, the consistency of usage and the overall skin condition.

Based on the clinical studies, Wrinkle + Texture Repair and Retinol Skin Brightener were both clinically shown to achieve visible results such as smoother skin texture and enhanced skin barrier in as little as 2 weeks. Maximum benefits, such as improved appearance of lines + wrinkles in Wrinkle + Texture Repair clinical study and visible improvement in skin tone in Retinol Skin Brightener clinical study, were achieved at 12 weeks <sup>1-2

1. Protocol: a 12-week independent third-party clinical study of 43 participants to assess the efficacy potential of Wrinkle + Texture Repair. Participants represent females, ages 42–67, with Fitzpatrick skin types II—IV. Supported with use of Gentle Cleanser, Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50 and Hydrating Crème during the study.
2. Protocol: a 12-week independent third-party clinical study of 46 participants to assess the efficacy potential of Retinol Skin Brightener. Participants represent females, ages 40-64, with Fitzpatrick skin types II—IV. Supported with the use of Gentle Cleanser, Sunscreen + Primer Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 and Hydrating Crème during the study.</sup>

Only you know your skin. As with a beginning user, it is essential to monitor your skin’s reaction and tolerance daily. The key to attaining the full benefits of Retinol is compliance. If you have taken a break, consider either starting with a lower strength treatment like the RETINOL SKIN BRIGHTENER .25% and/or limit your use of Retinol to 2-3x weekly.

Redness, flakiness, dryness, burning, or stinging are all normal, anticipated reactions when starting retinol. With regular product use, skin will acclimate, revealing a smoother, more even-toned and youthful-looking complexion.

You can use the following recommendations to reduce reactions to suit your lifestyle:

- If you are new to retinol, start with a lower strength retinol serum such as Retinol Skin Brightener 0.25%
- Start use slowly: 2-3 times/week. Then increase frequency as skin becomes more acclimated
- Incorporate an exfoliant such as ZO’s Exfoliating Polish or Enzymatic Peel to gently sweep away dead skin cells + improve dryness
- Add a soothing + hydrating product, such as Hydrating Crème, proven to relieve symptoms of severely dry skin while calming skin to soothe visible irritation
- It is imperative to wear a daily sunscreen the morning after Retinol use to moderate sun sensitivity and prevent redness and irritation. If possible, apply sunscreen every day, whether or not you have used Retinol the night before. We recommend a sunscreen from our Triple Spectrum Protection® portfolio.
- Stop retinol usage if irritation persists or becomes severe four days before a special event

One of retinol’s many benefits is that it accelerates cell turnover, bringing new skin cells to the surface. These cells are more susceptible to sun exposure, so it’s essential to limit time in the sun, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen and re-apply it every 2 hours and use protective clothing.

Consult a physician for customized retinol protocol. If new to retinol, start with a lower concentration 2-3 times per week. Increase product strength and frequency as skin becomes more acclimated and to achieve more profound skin benefits.

Although retinol is one of the most effective + researched skincare ingredients, it may not be right for everyone, at every season in life. Some common reasons include but are not limited to:

- Not wanting to experience the initial retinol acclimation period
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- If you have a chronically dry or reddened skin condition, such as eczema
- If you spend extended periods of time in the sun as retinol can cause photosensitivity

Yes, ZO® offers many non-retinol, clinically proven alternatives for people looking to minimize signs of aging. Options include:

- Growth Factor Serum
- Firming Serum
- Daily Power Defense
- Illuminating AOX Serum

Yes, ZO offers several non-retinol, clinically shown alternatives for people looking to achieve a brighter, more even complexion. Options include:

- Brightalive Skin Brightener
- 10% Vitamin C Self-Activating
- Illuminating AOX Serum