Why are skincare addicts always talking about retinol?

You may have heard a few rumours about retinol: claims that it causes depression or that it thins out the skin. For the record, neither of these statements is true. There is no scientific evidence linking topical retinol to depression, and research shows it actually helps strengthen and thicken the skin over time by stimulating collagen production and promoting healthy cell renewal.

Despite being one of the most studied and effective ingredients in modern skincare, retinol is often misunderstood. Murad, together with board-certified physician and skincare educator Dr. Zion Ko, is on a mission to make retinol approachable and trusted again. By combining Dr. Zion’s expertise in medical education with Murad’s science-backed formulations, the partnership aims to empower people to use retinol confidently and correctly.

The Truth About Retinol

Retinol has been a gold-standard ingredient in dermatology for decades. As a derivative of Vitamin A, it works deep within the skin to support renewal at the cellular level. By speeding up cell turnover, retinol helps to smooth fine lines, improve texture, even out pigmentation, and enhance radiance.

Dermatologists often recommend retinol because of its ability to address multiple concerns at once - from early signs of ageing and uneven tone to sun damage and loss of elasticity. Consistent use can result in skin that feels smoother, looks brighter, and appears more youthful.

However, misinformation on social media has led to confusion and hesitation. Some believe that retinol makes the skin thinner, when in fact, the opposite is true. Retinol encourages collagen production, which helps strengthen the deeper layers of the skin, improving its firmness and resilience over time. With proper use and gradual introduction, retinol becomes one of the most effective long-term skincare ingredients available.

Why Murad Retinol is Different

While retinol has been widely used in skincare, Murad’s approach stands out for its focus on results without irritation. The brand’s Retinol Tri-Active Technology combines three complementary forms of retinol. A fast-acting retinoid, time-released retinol, and a retinol booster, to deliver visible benefits at every level of the skin.

This innovation ensures that users can enjoy faster, more noticeable improvements in tone and texture while minimising the redness or dryness sometimes associated with traditional retinol products. Murad’s formulas are designed to be both preventative and corrective, addressing visible signs of ageing while helping to reduce the look of emerging fine lines before they appear.

Meet Murad x Dr. Zion: Retinol Made Simple

To make retinol even more accessible, Dr. Zion collaborated with Murad to develop an innovation designed for both instant gratification and long-term transformation: the Murad x Dr. Zion Retinol Youth Renewal Eye Masks.

These oversized hydrogel masks are uniquely shaped to cover the under-eye and crow’s feet areas simultaneously, delivering a concentrated dose of Murad’s powerful yet gentle Retinol Tri-Active Technology. This combination works to smooth fine lines, hydrate the delicate eye area, and boost radiance without causing irritation.

Within minutes, skin feels refreshed and revitalised. With consistent use, users report firmer, smoother, and more youthful-looking eyes - results that reflect Murad’s clinical precision and Dr. Zion’s hands-on expertise in effective skincare.

Science-backed Skincare You Can Trust

Dr. Zion’s collaboration with Murad represents more than just a product launch. It reflects a shared philosophy: that skincare should be guided by evidence, not trends. Murad’s decades of dermatological research and clinical innovation ensure that each formula is not only effective but also safe and suitable for all skin types.

If you’re new to retinol, start slowly with two to three nights per week and always follow with a nourishing moisturiser to support hydration. During the day, apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30, as retinol can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Over time, as your skin builds tolerance, you’ll begin to see visible improvements in tone, texture, and elasticity.

Building Confidence Through Knowledge

One of the reasons retinol remains such a trusted ingredient is its versatility. It can help target early fine lines, sun spots, uneven tone, and even occasional breakouts. When used consistently, it strengthens the foundation of your skin by supporting collagen and improving renewal, giving you long-term results that keep your complexion looking vibrant and youthful.

Murad and Dr. Zion’s collaboration goes beyond product innovation; it’s about education. By sharing clear, evidence-based information about how retinol works, they aim to help people feel confident in using it properly, avoiding the myths and misinformation that often cause hesitation.

Experience the Difference With Murad

When it comes to visible, lasting results, trust matters. Murad and Dr. Zion are committed to empowering skincare users through science, expertise, and proven performance.

Discover the truth about retinol for yourself with the Murad x Dr. Zion Retinol Youth Renewal Eye Masks and explore the best retinol serums from Murad to find your perfect match.

Your glow starts with science, and with Murad, you’re always in expert hands.