A Gentler Version of a Beloved Skincare Staple

Retinol is beloved for its proven anti-aging qualities. However, prudent users should be aware that there is a downside to using retinol excessively or using it decades before it is needed.

According to Natalia Derkach, MD, PhD, and founder of INSTYTUTUM, “It is difficult to find a component more effective than retinoids, but critically important to choose skin care products with the new generation retinoids because old-school forms tend to be very aggressive. They give results, but at the same time provoke irritation, husking, and negative reactions of the skin. Next-generation retinoids have the same high efficiency without side effects.”

In the past, I’ve never successfully used a retinol product because of excessive inflammation. Therefore, I was thrilled to note the lack of inflammation occurring while I was using INSTYTUTUM’s X-Strength Retinol Serum. At first, I treaded carefully by slowly introducing my skin to INSTYTUTUM’s retinol serum every other night, before switching over to nightly use. What I especially love about this botanical retinoid alternative’s formula is that it contains nourishing squalene and apricot and grapeseed oil to protect my skin’s barrier against damage and irritation. So far, so good. I think I’ve found THE ONE!

If you are seeking an effective retinoid serum that hydrates and moistens your skin while reducing fine lines and hyperpigmentation, visit here to discover the multiple reasons this X-Strength Retinol Serum is worth a trial run.

Rachelle Nones

Staff Lifestyle and Wellness Writer

Rachelle is a New York–born lifestyle writer specializing in beauty, food, fashion and accessories, wine and spirits, and home and garden trending news and reviews. An English literature honors graduate, she brings a sharp editorial voice and storytelling sensibility to every project. Beyond journalism, she writes short fiction and 15-minute mysteries. Her novella The Morse Code Murderer has twice ranked on Amazon’s Top 100 in the Mystery, Thriller & Suspense Short Reads category, reflecting her flair for suspenseful, tightly crafted narratives. Before establishing her writing career, Rachelle worked at diverse gigs, including high-end textile color approval (colorist) and wholesale fashion accessory marketer/public relations associate in NYC's fashion district.