RETINOL IN COSMETICS: HOW CAN THIS MIRACLE INGREDIENT IMPROVE YOUR SKIN?
Vitamin A, often called retinol, is one of the key ingredients in reversing the signs of skin aging. Retinol can be beneficial for a variety of skin conditions, but is most recommended for aging skin to reduce the appearance of fine lines and age spots, while making the skin firmer, smoother, and more even. Retinol is also effective in fighting acne, helping to unclog pores and prevent them from becoming clogged. It can also help reduce the appearance of acne scars with regular use. We’ll discuss more about how retinol works and its benefits below.
REDUCES FINE LINES AND WRINKLES
Retinol is one of the best skin care ingredients for anti-aging. It works by boosting cell turnover and stimulating collagen production in the skin, which gives the skin firmness and elasticity. In short, retinol stimulates collagen production, making it a highly effective ingredient that helps maintain the youthful appearance of skin.
IMPROVES SKIN TEXTURE
Up until the age of 30, skin cells renew themselves every 28 days, but this process slows down as we age. Retinol speeds up cell turnover, the process by which dead skin cells are removed and replaced with new ones. This improves skin texture and makes it smoother.
REDUCES PIGMENTED SPOTS
Retinol is an effective ingredient for reducing hyperpigmentation and skin discoloration caused by sun exposure, hormonal fluctuations, or aging. Regular use of retinol products can help to even out skin tone, brighten skin, and give it a healthy glow.
HELPS TO SOLVE ACNE PROBLEMS
Acne is usually caused when oil and dead skin cells clog the skin's pores, allowing bacteria to grow and cause inflammation. Retinol helps to unclog pores, regulates sebum production in the skin and promotes healing, which can help control acne breakouts.
REDUCES THE VISIBILITY OF SCARS
Retinol can also be helpful in reducing acne scars. Retinol stimulates cell turnover, helping to remove the top layer of skin that contains the scar. Over time, the scar becomes less noticeable.
HOW TO USE RETINOL?
- Start using retinol gradually to allow your skin to adjust and reduce irritation. Start using it once a week, then twice a week, then every other day, and finally daily. Start with a low concentration of retinol and increase it over time.
- Use retinol at night to avoid sun-induced irritation and pigmentation. Using retinol at night has two important benefits: minimal exposure to the sun after using retinol reduces the chance of irritation and sun damage. Retinol is more effective when used in conjunction with the skin’s nighttime renewal processes.
- Always use sunscreen (we recommend SPF50) during the day to protect your skin from sun exposure. Never leave home without it!
- Avoid other scrubs unless they have been recommended for use by a professional.
- Use moisturizers to minimize any irritation that retinol may cause.
RETINOL BENEFITS FOR SKIN
- Reduces wrinkles and fine lines.
- Increases cell turnover and accelerates skin renewal.
- Stimulates collagen production.
- Improves skin texture and tone.
- Reduces pigment spots and signs of photodamage.
- Helps reduce acne scars and pimples.
- Tightens and brightens the skin, giving it radiance.
POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS AND HOW TO AVOID THEM
You may experience dryness, flaking or irritation in the first few weeks. To avoid this, use only a small amount (about the size of a pea), be sure to apply moisturizer, and avoid other active ingredients such as salicylic, alpha-hydroxy (AHA) or beta-hydroxy (BHA) acids. If necessary, these ingredients can be used on different days.
WHO IS IT NOT RECOMMENDED TO USE?
Retinol-containing products are not recommended for use at a very young age. This substance should also be avoided when planning pregnancy, during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. In such cases, it is worth trying bakuchiol - a safe alternative that has a similar effect on the skin. If your skin is very sensitive or you suffer from eczema, dermatitis or other complex skin diseases, it is necessary to consult a specialist before using such products.