Retinol increases skin cell production (proliferation). It helps unclog pores. Retinol exfoliates skin. That means it promotes skin-cell turnover. Skin is always making new cells to replace the old ones that get damaged or die. But this process can slow down as you get older, so the skin doesn’t make new cells as quickly. Retinol helps speed up how often your skin makes new cells. This helps your skin look brighter and younger. Retinol also stimulates the production of collagen and elastin. These are proteins that give skin its strength and elasticity. By increasing the production of collagen and elastin and slowing their breakdown, retinol can help make your skin look smoother and lessen the look of wrinkles or fine lines.