When using a high-concentration retinol product, it is important to gradually establish skin tolerance, also referred to as "retinization," before advancing to more frequent usage. If you are a first-time user of pure retinol,* Mary Kay’s gentle retinization process (below) is recommended for you.
During the retinization process, Mary Kay recommends avoiding physical and chemical exfoliation products, acne products and products with high concentrations of vitamin C since they may contribute to temporary dryness or irritation.
WEEKS 1 2
Apply Mary Kay Clinical Solutions® Retinol 0.5 1x per week on the same night, diluted with Mary Kay Clinical Solutions® Calm Restore Facial Milk.
Directions: In the evening, cleanse skin and wait approximately five to ten minutes. Mix a pea-sized amount (one pump) of Mary Kay Clinical Solutions® Retinol 0.5 with one pump of Mary Kay Clinical Solutions® Calm Restore Facial Milk. Apply mixture to forehead, cheeks, nose and chin in an upward, outward motion, avoiding the eye area. Allow for full absorption before applying other skin care products. Mary Kay Clinical Solutions® Calm Restore Facial Milk can also be used throughout the day and week as needed to relieve skin. Use sunscreen during the day.
WEEKS 3 4
Apply Mary Kay Clinical Solutions® Retinol 0.5 1x per week on the same night, followed by Mary Kay Clinical Solutions® Calm Restore Facial Milk.
WEEKS 5 6
Apply Mary Kay Clinical Solutions® Retinol 0.5 2x per week, followed by Mary Kay Clinical Solutions® Calm Restore Facial Milk, as needed.
WEEKS 7 8
Apply Mary Kay Clinical Solutions® Retinol 0.5 3x – 5x per week, followed by Mary Kay Clinical Solutions® Calm Restore Facial Milk, as needed.
WEEKS 9
Continued benefits come with continued usage. Usage frequency of Mary Kay Clinical Solutions® Retinol 0.5 is based on skin tolerance. Once skin is retinized, product may be used as often as every evening, followed by Mary Kay Clinical Solutions® Calm Restore Facial Milk as needed.
Click here to learn more about retinol’s compatibility with other ingredients and Mary Kay® products and to find out if retinol is right for you. Do not use Mary Kay Clinical Solutions® Retinol 0.5 if you are pregnant, lactating or planning to become pregnant.
These products cannot be sold or shipped in the Dominican Republic due to local regulations.