Retinol: How to BEST use the #1 MOST Important Ingredient for your Skin

Discover how Dr. Karam treated his wife's Melasma AT HOME here: • How Dr. Amir Karam tre...
Retinol is an incredibly powerful, active skincare ingredient. Today, Dr. Karam is diving into the details about why Retinol is so powerful, and the best way to use it in your skincare routine. Retinol is arguably one of the most important skincare ingredient for an anti-aging skincare routine, so it is vital that you include this amazing in your daily regimen!
WATCH MORE FROM DR. KARAM
- How Dr. Amir Karam treated his wife's Melasma AT HOME! Step by Step! - • How Dr. Amir Karam tre...
- Everything you need to know about anti-aging powerhouse Niacinamide! - • Everything you need to...
- The RIGHT way to use Vitamin C (and mistakes to avoid!) - • The RIGHT way to use V...
- How to use Retinol the RIGHT way for anti aging - • How to use Retinol the...
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Dr. Amir Karam
00:00 How to Use Retinol Correctly
01:25 Science of Retinol
09:12 Caveats and Challenges
12:40 Practical Application Tips
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Caramel Valley Aesthetics: 11943 El Camino Real, Suite 100, San Diego, California 92130 | 858.259.3223

[@dramirkaram]

Learn how Dr. Karam treated his wife's Melasma AT HOME here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mXnXfYVmd9GJqKM

[@malenahenriquez7386]

Hola Dr Karam, soy de Chile y quiero comunicarte que hay dos cuentas de Facebook con tus fotos pero con otros nombres, creo que te están estafando y eso es gravisimo, uno me habló y yo creí que era verdad esa persona que me escribía y un día estaba viendo KZbin y te vi y eras tu un Dr de prestigio y me asuste y le escribí a la persona que te estaba su plantando y le dije que ya había dado cuenta a la policía y nunca más me habló y creo que cerró esa cuenta pero ahora te encontré en otra cuenta falsa con tus fotos y un nombre diferente, quise comunicarte por cualquier estafa que te pudiesen estar haciendo. Yo no te conocía y fue un milagro haber encontrado tus cirugías y cuando te vi quien eras casi me desmaye..

[@rosamariav_09]

Am I the only one that always get distracted by the beautiful and radiant skin of Dr. Karam?

[@vivianarukwe1556]

You are not dear, the guy is really good looking with Perfect skin

[@shudae_roseflores123]

He really has a perfect skin

[@keinohrtini]

It’s my first time watching him but I think his face is timeless. The glowy radiant skin and the gray hair … I am confused! 😂

[@cindyhumphrey3065]

He is very easy on the eyes. Oh and yes he has great skin. 🙂

[@animosity4u85]

He is a fine piece of man😉

[@estherjennings1655]

In my practice as an ICU nurse I often care for patients who look far older than their stated age and the majority of those are smokers. The effects of smoking are pretty clear on many levels, especially your skin.

[@ocontroverso]

That's interesting... people would normally be concerned about the effect on their lungs, but few mention the effects on the skin.

[@dlemmon1276]

​@@ocontroversoWell, they're not listening. At 70, I've heard that all of my life: "Smoking causes wrinkles" - It is 110% fact!

[@xueleiluo9021]

Cannot agree more, I am a nurse as well. Saw many patients or colleagues older than their age because because smoking.

[@MelissaLaycak]

Here’s an overview: There are three general levels of retinoids or Vitamin A derivatives: 1) tretinoin (brand name is Retin A), which IS vitamin A, the strongest and also the most irritating. It can only be acquired through a doctor’s prescription in many countries including the US; 2) retinal or retinaldehyde, which requires an extra conversion by the body in order to become vitamin A. It’s less irritating but will take a little longer to create the effect straight Retin A would; and 3) retinols, which are commonly found in over the counter products and/or mixed in with night creams, etc. These require two conversion steps in order to become vitamin A, so they are the weakest. While tretinoin has been gaining hype as the “golden standard”, if your skin can’t handle it, it’s okay; like Dr. Karam said, use a weaker version that you can tolerate daily (or so) and in time, you will still have the same benefits (it just takes longer). It takes months to grow collagen so you may not see effects for up to a year. Good luck and definitely use sunscreen!😊

[@shawnasomers9127]

@melissalaycak This is the best overview I’ve seen! I’m always trying to explain the difference to friends and I never seem to get it exactly right! I’ll memorize this. Thanks! 😊

[@donnapug]

I’m on Adapalene as a lower dose retinoid and I tolerated without irritation so I’m ready for tretanoin

[@Ulfscher]

Just one thing - tretinoin is available under many, many different brand names. Otherwise a good explanation.

[@RisingPhoenixBeautyByLena]

Thank you sooo much

[@nat-the-brat]

Years ago I would get a prescription for Retin A from a dermatologist...if its for acne, its cheap...but if its for anti-aging purposes, the price is ridiculous!

[@PT-tw6kg]

Using retin a 37 years, now will be 70 years young. I have beautiful skin. Never had a tan that helps. Proper human diet 20 carbs and below. I take no meds, and in great shape, it all works together, not just one thing.

[@lifespanwellnessbeauty-60i64]

Awesome!!!!❤

[@sagars861]

woww do you have instagram

[@glendagai]

When I grow up I want to be just like you!

[@_Cristina_]

I like the fact that no particular brand is recommended. It makes this video trustworthy.

[@sluslu4284]

except for his own brand😉

[@sable7114]

I don't understand why he said Retin-A because Retin-A is the brand name for tretinoin. Funny on GoodRx I read recently that the brand name Retin-A is now cheaper than the tretinoin. The problem is finding the pharmacy who carries the brand name.

[@ET76001]

Are you serious? LOL the whole video is an advert of his own brand

[@ifeyhome]

Vitamin C in the morning & Retinol at nighttime 😊

[@sable7114]

Is Vitamin C better than CoQ10 or do they do pretty much the same thing

[@sassymassy9967]

Make sure you use sunscreens too 😀

[@orietagjyli6442]

Thank you 😊

[@jenniferproctor9157]

That's what I do as well.

[@karynm3365]

I alternate with Retinol one night and Castor oil the next night. It's truly amazing!

[@fefetegs8994]

May i ask what kind u use Thx✨

[@vishramam]

@@fefetegs8994cold pressed

[@jillwyatt4543]

I use Tretinoin every night and my Castor Oil is the last thing I do every night right before bed, also. Why alternate and lose out on one or the other every day?

[@dianal8387]

I'm using .025 Tret for 1.5 yrs. I've also been using OTC retinols for about 15 yrs. I continue to cycle the Tret, with OTC products on other nites. I will confidently say, as I approach my mid 50s, my skin looks 10+ yrs younger than my age. I'm most pleased with the quality of my collagen !🌟

[@staceywest6332]

Is there a reason you remain at this dose? I've been a bit more aggressive. I just turned 50 last Oct (2023). Around June 2023, I started looking up 'neck lift' and I've never looked back.😂 I'm now on 2xday routine plus lots of extras and other things I do like use satin pillow cases & run a humidifier.😂 I would Love Love surgery. I have too much skin on my neck. But I've never had the $ for procedures. I didn't even know about the field of skin care. I didn't know what retinol was. Now I use actives, acids, serums, moisturizers, emollients, peptides. I spritz mist for fun lol (product made for this) I don't wear much makeup, only brow pencil & mascara. So I can get away with so much more than people with makeup covering their face. Anyway long story sorry lol I've spent 100's of hours watching videos by Dr Karam & probably another 10 derms on YT. My education is well & so enjoyable! It is so much fun! It took 9 months to get here. I've used .05% tretinoin 1xday. For the last 6 months. I just received the .1%, the big daddy retinoid.😊 I used it last nite & learned a few things. I did just double my strength. So I was just wondering, why have you chose this strength. I was also supplementing extra shelf retinol with my .05% tret. And can't leave out SUNSCREEN! I have about 4 diff ones that i use strategically. 😊 Can't leave out diet & exercise. I do low carb. It makes such a difference but I'm talking about getting enuf protein in your diet. And I supplelent with collagen peptides. My vitamin supplements are vit c, vit e, vit d, magnesium, krill oil, zinc, and more ofc. But I'm trying to help my body with collagen production. I am trying harder to get exercise. Soon I'm joining a gym. I recently learned about Glycation. Check that out.

[@dianal8387]

@staceywest6332 Research is out, there's no reason to be on high dose of Tret! consistency is key💫 I also am 'honoring' the fact that I've never gone thru any intense peeling/ reaction with the .025 dose, & I'm seeing legit results, so why switch?! 🙌🏻

[@Breezy1702]

Tretinoid is the number one ingredient to use

[@donnapug]

⁠@@dianal8387is .025 the lowest dose?

[@ovejash]

@dianal8387 is it okay to use tret once a week and use a retinol serum like cerave's on the other days of the week. I started using 0.25 tret after using cerave resurfacing retinol for a year but when I use tret more than once a week my skin starts chipping and gets extremely dry. I have to say though, it's only been 3 months since I started using tretinoin.

[@flash2a]

I too thought I had to keep pushing for a higher percentage. So helpful to hear that consistency at a lower concentration is more important!!!

[@maalikserebryakov]

Well he’s wrong. Zoe Draelos and the Brother of the guy who invented Tretinojn did a study and proved 0.25% tretinoin achieved much faster results than 0.1% tret

[@ALL6936]

I have used Retin A 0.05 for over 30 years. Yes 30. Probably started because I had acne after my daughter was born. But now I wonder if the benefits of Glycolic acid. I remember my dermatologist prescribed it for the scars. I am totally scar free and also use hialuronic acid for over 6 years. I’m turning 64 and have wonderful completion.

[@janebraun4482]

Glycolic acid fixed the scars? Even the rolling type? Wow, is this available without Rx? Juts Retin A and GA, no other creams?

[@paulenepollyokeefe9327]

Can you mix retin A0.05% with moisturiser

[@iambueno3880]

For some unknown reason, you make me trust your words! I have respect for your opinion and your videos are so trustworthy!

[@dramirkaram]

Thanks. That means a lot because I spend a lot of time making these videos to educate people

[@bnb0510]

Started Retinol in my early 20’s. Switched to Retin A in my 30’s. Now at 46 my skin is better than most of my friends my age. I do use a bunch of other products/actives but Retin A is always the main course!

[@dahliarose8466]

Which ones do you use? Thanks

[@bnb0510]

@@dahliarose8466 Prescription strength .05%. Couldn’t tolerate a higher percentage.

[@rockymountain3245]

Same!!! I’m so glad I had acne lol

[@JoJo-xz6fw]

​@@bnb0510I'm sure. 05% is the highest strength available , I've used it for decades.

[@kimb6962]

I adore this man! What a gift this video has been.

[@immyhemrajani770]

Just a confirmation to keep doing Retin A. Thank you for your honesty!!

[@wafavlogs5]

I’ve been using it for the past 26 years for Acne not knowing it helped me look 10 years younger than my age 😊

[@tlazo997]

What age did you start using it??

[@wafavlogs5]

@@tlazo997 16/17

[@wafavlogs5]

@@tlazo997 16/17

[@Carol-td5jc]

I love your passion for this category

[@lorraine_life]

This is the most comprehensive explanation for we lay people to date. Thank you doc, and Netta!

[@justasmallhaul1247]

I am 59 years of age and I start using retinol about two years ago. I have season huge improvement in my skin. People say I look younger than what I am. I am 59 and someone thought I was just 49. I’ll take it.😊

[@nushimarinova223]

Could you tell me which brand of Retinol, please?

[@donnapug]

I bet you look amazing 🤩

[@sherrylee6475]

Same here😊

[@emilianoliburdi3888]

Best doc on KZbin

[@danakembel1645]

Thank you for your knowledge. I have been following you for about 2 years or more. My skin has improved phenomenally and so has my self confidence! I can’t tell you how much you have helped me with my aging journey! Again, thanks dr. Karam❤

[@Hayboi]

Def don’t be afraid to use it around your eyes!!! Some ppl advise otherwise out of fear of increased dryness/wrinkles, but it’s decreased my wrinkles esp caused by eyeshadow/makeup use. Been using 0.1 prescription since I was 18 for acne. Didn’t help my deep pitted scars as much, so Ive been using a microneedle stamp carefully at home. 10/10 results.

[@pattyolsson]

After watching a lot of your videos, you can tell you have a passion for what you do! Thank you for sharing your knowledge and expertise!

[@vasantirin2389]

Hello there from Greece! Thank you for sharing this knowledge, Doc!❤

[@pambain9415]

I love that you went to such depths to help us understand the biology of Retin A. Great video.

[@christinatan6734]

Thank you, Dr Karam. Very useful information.

[@lisadolan689]

Brilliant info Doc. Thank you 🙏☺️

[@Dara-tr7wu]

Dott Karan sei fantastico non solo ringiovanisci ma sono ancora se stesse e non cambiano espressione bravissimo 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@rozguarino]

I’ve been using tretinoic acids for almost 40 years and my skin is firm, plump and there is no skin damage. Needlessness to say I have never sat in the sun. Thank you, doctor.

[@user-ln3ny1fx1x]

Hi Dr is it possible to get traduction in French please graduation

[@kemalistdevrimturkaydnlanm168]

Which brand do you use?

[@user-mh5jc9iw5v]

You are Soooo Good, in describing, advising and that you don't actually recommend a brand. So common sense advice . I'm impressed. Thanks

[@dramirkaram]

Glad it was helpful!

[@karriehigley4776]

Thank you so much for this information! You are a great help.

[@tatjanakecman7236]

We need education when it comes to skin care. Thank you for doing it.

[@silarmss7641]

Thank you so much for such a wonderful explanation !!!!!!🎉🙏🏼

[@maittlen]

Yet another super informative video! Thank you!!

[@user-hu7ud6xp6g]

The Best Advice Lovely Dr Karam Family Thank You From MiAe

[@TheTwinklegigi]

I'm like you wife, I've been in retinol since my 18, 56 years old now with very young skin. Have only a lifting last year , more to lift my face skin. Thank you, Dr. I love your videos.

[@Unknownperson-jm2pk]

Does lifting helps tighten the skin? Cause I've been experiencing skin sagging lately and I'm only 22😢.

[@dianasmyres1579]

Very nice because it was honest. Thank you!

[@maipham4766]

Best Video on this topic thank you doctor for the illustration and explanation ❤️❤️❤️ by the your skin is beyond radiant and youthful

[@martyvillareal2028]

Great advice thank you so much for sharing❤

[@kathyburrows269]

You always explain everything so clearly. Thank you. I feel confident my skin routine is working and will continue to...

[@dramirkaram]

So glad it’s helpful. Thanks for watching

[@dineosibiya2123]

Well explain Dr...thank you.

[@kmc1steelers998]

I❤ this man's videos.

[@user-fm6ut5sf7m]

Your best video ever! Thank you 🙏

[@user-gi9ls1du4v]

Thank you for this informative video. I'm 58 and have been too scared to use retinols but now will look into the various options.

[@maysona1160]

Thank you for all the information❤

[@manzoorahmed4906]

Thank you doctor. I believe every word you say about retinol and its importance in anti aging. I love you sir.

[@LadyPantera57]

I'm really glad that you touched on using vitamin c and retinol together. I wasn't sure if that was okay. I've been using vitamin c since I was 23 years old and people are always shocked that I'm 40. I don't really have any noticeable loss of collagen and my only static lines are laugh lines. I'm thinking it might be time to start using a retinoid before I reach menopause in about 10 years.

[@jednaklanda7306]

I’ve started and stopped tretinoin multiple times over the past few years. The thing I couldn’t deal with was the dry, tight, flaky skin. I’ve now been using tretinoin 0.1% for over a year and my skin looks great. I stopped buying expensive moisturizers after seeing another one of your videos… I’ve been using Vanicream and Cerave moisturizer which completely stopped the dry flaky skin. I will never stop using tretinoin now! So thank you Dr. Karam! 🙏

[@714boba2003]

Where I can I order that tretinoin please?

[@lonestarbellepk]

Same

[@Alice-fr1ef]

Thank you so much Dr. Karam for a wonderful, educational and informative video on Retinol and how to use it. I thank you also for a skincare system that takes care of it for us. I have Trifecta and Enrich. I feel like my skin glows like it used to do and I am now getting compliments again on my skin. No one has ever believed I am as old as I am. I've had this problem all of my life but it is good to have at my age. Thanks again Dr. Karam.

[@rosiesingleton6480]

My routine consists of many products. My night routine begins with a double cleanse, and 3 times a week I’ll also use an exfoliating cream cleanse. Then on a dry face I use retinal on face & neck. I protect the area around my eyes & lips with either Vaseline or castor oil. Then after it’s absorbed , I’ll use a moisturizer. In the morning I’ll rinse my face with water, then while it’s still damp I’ll use a vitamin CE serum, then a high SPF sunscreen. If I’m not going out for the day, I’ll skip the sunscreen and use snail mucin after I cleanse & moisturize. 3 times a week I’ll use Glycolic pads after the morning cleanse. I’m considering purchasing a red light mask to also incorporate in my daily routine. Of niacinamides, peptides & ceramides are in my moisturizers. BTW- I had a face & neck lift, upper & lower eyelids, and fat transfer 8 months ago. I will be getting a laser in the near future. I am 68 yrs young, but look like I’m in my early 50’s. So ladies-it’s real 👍🏻 get on the skin care train 😃

[@jacquelineaulet2186]

As always...the magistral lesson we expected!💎❤️🙏

[@cherylanderson72]

Another fabulous,informative video..thanks so much Dr Amir, I learn a lot from you, best wishes from Australia 🇦🇺 😊

[@amandalynn9237]

I have gained so much knowledge from you! Thank you for sharing your skills and expertise with us all!

[@dramirkaram]

I'm so glad!

[@evaleszczynska]

Love your very informative easy to understand and very honest videos. Thank you dr. Amir ❤❤

[@user-ic8jz2ib7l]

TY Dr. K I’m glad I’m doing the right thing. Thank you for reinforcing the importance of retinal 🥰

[@paularogers7331]

Thank you so much for sharing this ❤

[@cristelleshields7900]

Your skin is gorgeous

[@ivalex1001]

I love your videos ... Cheers from Italy. ❤

[@cdt2879]

You have beautiful skin dr ✨ what’s a good one not to aggravate rosacea ?

[@shirleyclarissa8355]

Thank you dr Karam for the education for a good skin 🩷

[@trinichandy3049]

Great info dr Karim. I love using Retin A, works great on my skin...using 0.05 for 5 years.

[@DT2125]

Great great job at explaining every topic… Do you have a video on peptides and growth factors? I currently use retinol in my routine and love it. I want to incorporate peptides or growth factors and want your opinion on them. :):)

[@maritamaltezaki8588]

Thank you so much for your valuable information! 😊

[@kalliroipoliti9401]

You are absolutely right .From the moment I started using retinol as a night cream in combination with niacinamide but also as an eye mask, I have seen a noticeable difference in my skin.

[@christinaoliveira5335]

Hello there! 😊I'm on a similar evening regimen... niacinamide serum, 0.05 retin A, moisturizer, and eye cream. May I ask whether you apply the niacinamide before your retinol? Lately, I've been wondering whether applying retinol first could possibly make it more potent giving us further results? But then I'm unsure about niacinamide not being fully absorbed due to the retin A layer...

[@kalliroipoliti9401]

@@christinaoliveira5335 They are together in the same night cream.

[@shanebowers2768]

Great info thanx doc

[@michaelstanley7818]

(Maryjo Stanley) Fantastic Video!! Very informative!! I have been using Retinol for about 10 years consistently! In addition to No alcohol, No smoking and great skin care routine (thanks to KZbinr Angie aka Hot and Flashy). I still have wrinkles but feel like it has slowed the aging process.

[@amdebbie]

Well said I will buy retinol in weak consideration thanks doctor for this amazing explanation. Bravo

[@veroniquedusabe513]

Very informative video! Thank you! I use the ordinary and vitamin plus sunscreen!

[@TrishA-cp5dx]

Thanks, doctor. What are your thoughts on Azealic Acid and when to incorporate this with Retinol?

[@Blondehottie321]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge Dr. We appreciate your hard work 😄

[@dramirkaram]

My pleasure

[@patsonwilliams9004]

Watching from Anguilla 🇦🇮 in the West Indies

[@deborahstagg8425]

Thank you so much so informative ❤

[@Elidicious]

thanks for explaining with graphics. It makes it so much easier to understand the importance of Retinol from a more scientific perspective.

[@dramirkaram]

Glad it was helpful!

[@minaroudgar6755]

I use retinol for 10 years and very happy with the quality of my skin. Recently i started using differin, as it is stronger than retinol and can buy over counter. I heard a lot of positive comments about it , but not sure if it is a good replacement to retinol?!

[@andavee]

You are amazing, thank you!

[@therezav2059]

Doc, your skin is beautiful!! ❤

[@dramirkaram]

Thank you! I use the Trifecta :)

[@autumn7721]

Thank you Doc. The best advice

[@dramirkaram]

Very welcome

[@mette1983]

Thanks from Scandinavia❤

[@saram806]

Dr Amir, can we use it around the eyes as well? Thank you. Loved the video! 🤗

[@110895andCounting]

Thank you!!!

[@susankelly3136]

Great info thank you 👌👌

[@irenedelossantos]

Doc I love your skin, it's glowing✨

[@dramirkaram]

Thank you! I use the Trifecta :)

[@naturalwoman8315]

Thanks doc ❤

[@susanrodas9020]

I have been using Retin-A for 40 years Consistently. I LOVE IT and would not want to he without it EVER! My skin feels like its not being Fed if I don't use it fir even One Day. I am 64 and people say I look nowhere near it. I have been fortunate enough to be Able to get it and I am 🙏 Grateful to The Max!

[@Honeydadwani]

Thank you so very much for the video Sir. Grateful 🙏🏼

[@dramirkaram]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Stellaperez658]

Thank you! Another great informative video! I'm 79 n have used Retinol for years n I hv to say, I look great n young!

[@therocknrollcook]

Love this❤ You’re age positive and so age defiant. Stay great sister. I’m 62 and we need to keep breaking the old beliefs about aging.

[@marugrandz9837]

Gracias Dr. Para mi su palabra es ley!👌

[@nataliefontana8748]

Thank you!

[@tammyvo8880]

Thank you so much!

[@candyapple7308]

What do you think about adapalene?

[@nazankaylin]

Thank you Dr Amir 👍👍👍

[@lilyvalleya6838]

I have been using Retionol for six years.not only on my face but also on my hands.some of my original dark spots have almost disappeared.it’s really good for me ❤

[@dramirkaram]

Thanks for sharing!

[@reneehill5548]

I’ve been using a thin layer of Vaseline after Retin A at night to help with the dryness.

[@jill4175]

Dr karam, what do you think about facelift for ladies on tamoxifen? Love your informative videos!

[@doriannemifsud8690]

Thanks Doc, very good videoa as always. I use tretinoin. Ketrel cream? Thanks💕

[@pambain9415]

I have started using Retin A on my hands.

[@summertime2702]

Great work

[@roseparapluie766]

Thanks for the advices ! For future videos, it would be interesting to know the difference between "retinol" and "hyaluronic acid".

[@dramirkaram]

They are different ingredients, they have different functions, they aren’t comparable, but both necessary in your skin care routine.

[@saramason8554]

I’ve used Retinals and Vitamin C off and on the last 10 years but once I kicked it up DAILY, I can see the difference! Consistency is key… thank you Dr. Karam~

[@dramirkaram]

Consistency is KEY! Thanks for sharing and watching.

[@jgregg1055]

I’m on my 2nd month of your Trifecta, along with Enrich & Powder. Loving it all. Can I slowly add Tret 0.05% back into my routine along with the Trifecta?