Do you really know what retinol does? Do you really know why you’re supposed to use it, or why most dermatologists consider it pure magic? Do you even really know how to apply it?

I’m here to break down everything you’ve ever wanted—and never knew you wanted—to know about retinol, so you can reap all of its smoothing, brightening, firming, and zit-killing benefits fast, without hardcore irritating your skin.