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Ingredient Focus: Retinol Explained

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”3.22.3″][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”3.25″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”3.0.74″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”]The queen of pretty much everything, Oprah, recently wrote an article on her blog called Retinol Cream: Your Skin’s New Best Friend. The all-knowing Oprah and her team of best friend doctors and skincare pros shared how retinol creams changed their life and outlook on skincare. But what is retinol is why is it such a powerful ingredient?

Retinol creams are made up of retinoids, a retinoid is a tropical form of Vitamin A. Vitamin A is the number one anti-wrinkle ingredient recommended by dermatologists. Its sole purpose is to promote cell turnover. It eliminates the old, bad cells and produces new, plump and healthy cells. Nothing works more effectively at eliminating the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines than retinol. It’s the best anti-ageing ingredient. There is no argument to it. Piles of research prove that the vitamin A derivative can really undo wrinkles and pigmentation caused by sun damage.

One of the best things about retinol creams is that you know they’re working from the moment you put it on. Within just a few seconds of application, you’ll notice a small, yet noticeable difference.

retinol skin renewalConsiderations when using retinol-based products

It’s important to know a few things about this miracle ingredient before choosing a retinol-based product for your skin.

1. There are two kinds of vitamin A in skincare products; over-the-counter retinol, and prescription retinol (retinoid). Prescription retinol creams are far more effective than those found in over-the-counter retinol, but it can cause more irritation and drying. You need to start slow and follow the instructions given by your practitioner otherwise, your skin will suffer from irritation.

2. It is recommended to only apply retinol-based products in the evening, and important to wear SPF during the day and the use of retinol increases your skin’s sensitivity to the sun.

3. All beauty products containing retinol, like all vitamin A derivatives, are NOT recommended for women who are pregnant, trying to be pregnant or breastfeeding.

So which product is right for me?

As with starting any new skincare regime, we recommend talking to one of our practitioners who can assess your skincare needs and recommend the best type of product for you. At Beyond Skin we stock a range of home care retinol-based products from Obagi, Dermaquest & Skinceuticals including both over-the-counter and prescription strength. We also offer a Retinol-based Facial as one of our Signature Facial Treatments designed to refresh, renew and tighten skin.

During treatment retinol molecules penetrate the skin and get right down to the deeper layers where fibroblasts, responsible for producing the collagen that keep your skin springy & youthful, are found. Applying retinol to fibroblasts switches on collagen production, which has the effect of re-inflating skin for a youthful, radiant glow. For acne concerns, Retinol also prevents dead cells from clogging pores which helps your skincare products work effectively.

If you’d like to add retinol into your skincare regime why not book a skin assessment with one of our practitioners today.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]