Once reserved primarily for dermatologists, retinol has become one of the most effective cosmetic ingredients for smoothing wrinkles and enhancing skin quality. A true anti-ageing benchmark, it works deep within the epidermis to stimulate cellular renewal, improve skin texture and restore radiance. Powerful though it may be, retinol requires a thoughtful approach. Here’s everything you need to know about using it, combining it with other ingredients and getting the most out of PAYOT’s retinol-powered skincare solutions.
Retinol: An Exceptional Cellular Renewal Expert
A derivative of vitamin A, retinol naturally accelerates skin regeneration. In other words, it helps the skin renew itself more quickly, reducing the appearance of wrinkles, refining skin texture and promoting a more even complexion.
At PAYOT, retinol is featured in two treatments from the Lisse collection, specifically designed to balance efficacy and skin tolerance.
Retinol Renewing Night Serum: The Art of Overnight Regeneration
This is the star of the evening skincare routine. The Lisse Retinol Renewing Night Serum harnesses the full power of retinol in a silky, lightweight texture.
Its unique formula combines retinol with a blend of vegetable oils—jojoba, macadamia and organic sesame—to maximise skin comfort and improve tolerance.
The result? Skin appears smoother without feeling irritated, wrinkles seem diminished and the complexion gradually regains clarity and radiance.
Its secret lies in working in harmony with the skin’s natural rhythm. At night, when cellular regeneration is at its peak, the skin becomes more receptive to active ingredients. By morning, the complexion looks more rested, refreshed and visibly renewed.
The 10-Day Express Wrinkle & Radiance Treatment: An Intensive Glow Boost
This intensive treatment revives the complexion’s radiance in just ten days while helping prepare the skin for retinol-based products. It supports skin vitality, smooths facial features and restores freshness to tired-looking skin.
Its short-format approach makes it ideal as a seasonal reset or before a special event.
When Should You Apply Retinol?
Retinol is a photosensitising ingredient, meaning it should only be used in the evening.
After cleansing, apply a few drops of the Retinol Renewing Night Serum to the face and neck. Follow with a hydrating or nourishing night cream to help reinforce the skin barrier.
The next morning, daily sun protection is essential to shield the skin from UV exposure and minimise the risk of sensitivity.
Which Cream Should You Apply After a Retinol Serum?
According to our experts, retinol is best paired with a comforting and nourishing texture. The products within the Lisse collection have been specifically formulated to provide this additional layer of comfort.
For drier skin types, it can also be alternated with a moisturiser from the Source Adaptogène collection to provide lasting hydration and support the skin’s natural balance.
Ingredients to Avoid Combining With Retinol
Retinol is a demanding active ingredient and does not pair well with every skincare ingredient.
Avoid combining it with vitamin C during the same routine, as this may increase skin sensitivity.
Avoid using exfoliating acids (AHAs and BHAs) on the same evening, as this may over-stimulate the skin.
Why? Because vitamin C and exfoliating acids both encourage skin renewal at the surface level and can have a mildly sensitising effect. They are generally better paired with gentler, highly tolerated ingredients such as hyaluronic acid.
On the other hand, combining retinol with hyaluronic acid is an excellent strategy. Hyaluronic acid helps counteract potential dehydration while maintaining the skin’s suppleness and comfort.
The Right Frequency for Maximum Benefits
Retinol should always be introduced gradually.
Begin by applying it two evenings per week, then progressively increase usage to every other night as your skin becomes accustomed to the ingredient.
This gradual approach allows the skin to adapt while maximising the benefits of retinol without unnecessary discomfort. For this reason, we recommend starting with the 10-Day Express Wrinkle & Radiance Treatment, which provides an ideal introduction before incorporating a long-term retinol routine.
A Long-Term Investment in Your Skin
Retinol is not an overnight miracle—it is a long-term ally. Used consistently and correctly, it helps improve skin texture, smooth the appearance of wrinkles, refine the complexion and reveal healthier-looking, more radiant skin over time.
With the Lisse collection, PAYOT combines the proven effectiveness of retinol with carefully selected complementary ingredients, offering a balanced approach that prioritises both visible results and skin comfort.