A313 tretinoin

For over 13 years (I’m 43 yo), I’ve been exploring the benefits of retinoids, and my skin has greatly benefited from it. My routine revolves around two key players: A313 and Tretinoin. Whether you’re just starting or have been at it for a while, I’m excited to share my journey, insights, and tips on making these products work for you. Let’s dive in!

This is my first beauty post!

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You won’t find any generic reviews here!

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Table of Contents

What is A313?

A313 is a vitamin A derivative, specifically a retinol ester cream. This French pharmacy favorite is known for its thick, balm-like texture (pommade, or ointment) and its ability to deliver smoother, brighter skin.

Unlike prescription retinoids like Tretinoin, A313 is milder and available over-the-counter, making it an excellent starting point for newcomers to retinoids.

What Does A313 Do?

A313 is a retinol ester, specifically retinyl palmitate, which is converted into active retinol and then further converted into retinoic acid in the skin to exert its effects.

When applied, enzymes in the skin break down retinyl palmitate into retinol, and then retinol is subsequently converted into retinoic acid, the active form that provides the benefits of increased cell turnover, smoother skin texture, and reduced signs of aging.

This conversion process makes A313 milder and slower acting compared to Tretinoin, which is already in its active form and works more quickly but can also lead to more irritation.

A313 retinol tretinoin — The texture of A313

How to Use A313

My routine feels like a comforting nighttime ritual. The pomade’s rich, oily texture lets me gently massage my face, releasing the day’s built-up tension, which helps me relax and sleep more peacefully.

Here’s how I incorporate it:

Cleanse: First, I remove the excess makeup with micellar water. I love Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water. It’s amazing how much comes off on the cotton pad with this simple step! Then, I use Clinique’s All About Clean Combination to Oily Skin cleanser (the pink one) with a konjac sponge .This helps make sure my skin is thoroughly clean; otherwise, leftover makeup, pollution, and other impurities could clog my pores and cause trouble.
Prep the Lips: I apply Bioderma Atoderm lip balm, generously extending it slightly beyond the lip borders to create a protective barrier. This step helps prevent irritation, like those annoying cracks at the corners of the mouth.
Apply: I gently massage a pea-sized amount onto my face. Its thick, oily texture feels like a nourishing mask that works overnight.
Hand Care: I also apply it to the back of my hands before bed. Since it’s not oily on my hands, I layer it with a rich cream, like L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream.

During summer, I take a break from retinol to avoid over-exposing my thinner, sun-vulnerable skin.

Keep reading: My 10 Self Care Ideas (and some Quirkiness to keep things interesting!)

How Often to Use A313

Can I Use A313 Every Day?

While some seasoned users might tolerate A313 daily, I suggest caution. It’s better to ease into it and pay attention to how your skin responds.

I recommend starting with 2-3 times a week, especially if you’re new to retinoids.

Once your skin builds tolerance, you can gradually increase the frequency.

Personally, I use A313 four times a week, alternating with Tretinoin on the other three days.

There’s a caveat: I follow this routine every other week to avoid retinol overdrive.

I used to be a retinol enthusiast, using it daily for 30 days straight, but I realized that my skin became too thin and fragile from the constant use, which isn’t beneficial in the long run.

When I’m not using retinoids, I have a different skincare routine that I’ll share in another post!

When to Apply A313

Only at night, folks!

Using it during the day can turn your skin into a sunspot factory.

Make sure your skin is dry before applying to keep irritation at bay.

And sunscreen? Yes, please!

When you’re using retinol, sunscreen becomes your skin’s best friend!

It can make your skin a little more sensitive and thinner, so don’t skip the SPF—consider it your trusty shield against those sun rays!

I reapply every three hours, and I’m really impressed with the La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Invisible Spray.

It’s fantastic because it’s not sticky and doesn’t disturb my makeup.

I simply spray it on my face, let it dry for a minute or two, and then touch up with my compact powder to eliminate any shine.

However, I would prefer a powder sunscreen for a more streamlined reapplication process.

That said, I’ve tried my fair share of powder sunscreens to simplify this routine, but none have truly met my expectations. I’m still on the lookout for a game-changer that makes reapplying sun protection both effortless and effective!

If you’ve discovered a powder sunscreen that delivers, please share your recommendations in the comments—I’d love to hear your favorites!

Why Does A313 Itch?

It may cause a slight itch or warming sensation upon application.

This is normal and indicates the product is penetrating the skin. For me, the sensation is mild and passes quickly (around 10 seconds), leaving my skin feeling comfortable overall.

Does A313 Cause Purging?

Yes, it can cause purging—a temporary increase in breakouts as your skin accelerates cell turnover. This phase is normal and usually subsides within a few weeks as your skin adjusts.

Buy A313 on Amazon:

Retinoids and Other Acids

Yes, you can!

But take it easy,

I’ll walk you through my routine for reference. Once your skin adjusts, you can enhance the results by adding AHA and BHA.

Once a week, I treat my skin to The Ordinary’s AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution—yes, the one that looks like liquid rubies!

This potent, blood-red mask adds depth to my retinoid routine, providing deeper exfoliation, refining my pores, and improving overall clarity.

In skincare, acids are categorized into AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) and BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids). Both are effective exfoliators but work differently:

AHAs (e.g., Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid): Water-soluble acids that exfoliate the skin’s surface, promoting a brighter, more even complexion. They’re particularly effective for dry or sun-damaged skin.
BHAs (e.g., Salicylic Acid): Oil-soluble acids that penetrate deeper into the pores, making them ideal for oily and acne-prone skin by helping to clear out excess oil and reduce inflammation.

PS: The instructions for The Ordinary’s AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution suggest a 10-minute application. However, I’ve found that my retinoid-thinned skin is more sensitive and can become irritated. I’ve adjusted the application time to 6-7 minutes, which provides effective exfoliation without causing irritation or a chemical burn 🙂

Buy The Ordinary’s AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution on Amazon:

My Tretinoin Routine

Now, let’s discuss Tretinoin—my powerhouse for anti-aging.

Begin with a low concentration of tretinoin, such as 0.01% or 0.025%, to allow your skin to gradually adjust to the medication.

I use 0.1% Tretinoin sourced from Brazil, stocking up on Vitanol and Vitacid whenever I visit my home country, since my French dermatologist won’t prescribe anything stronger than 0.01%.

This higher concentration works wonders on my combination skin, refining texture, minimizing pores, and firming the skin.

Here’s how I integrate Tretinoin into my routine:

Repeat steps 1 and 2 from the A313 routine.
Apply Tretinoin on completely dry skin to prevent irritation.
Lock in moisture with Eucerin Aquaphor by creating a thick, nourishing layer that feels very similar to A313. Aquaphor serves as a night mask and is a game changer for anyone wanting to boost their skin’s hydration!