The Power of Retinol

Otherwise known as Vitamin A, Retinol is a top dermatologist ingredient and one of the most widely researched and proven skincare ingredients available today. Packed with anti-ageing properties Retinol can be used to improve rough texture, reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles, and can help even the skin tone leaving it looking smoother, softer and more radiant. Sounds great, right? Absolutely a must have to up your skincare game. 

HOW DOES RETINOL BENEFIT MY SKIN?

As we age, it’s a natural that our skin’s cell turnover decreases resulting in the appearance of dull, uneven skin tone and rough skin texture. Now while this is a natural occurrence the use of topical retinol creams help promote turnover of surface cells, meaning that dead skin cells are sloughed away faster, revealing visibly healthier and brighter skin. Similarly, retinol’s exfoliation mechanism helps improve the appearance of blemishes by preventing dead skin cells from clogging up the pores.

Purity is essential for retinol efficacy in skin, as pure retinol converts easily to retinoic acid in the skin. My advice as you start the retinol journey is that you look for high concentration of pure retinol vs. retinol derivatives such as retinyl palmitate.

Essentially Retinol can: 

• Treat acne
• Clear pores
• Amp up cellular turnover
• Increase collagen promotes elasticity
• Decrease hyperpigmentation
• Brighten skin
• Diminish and prevent fine lines and wrinkles (forever young)
• Refine skin texture and tone 

CAN I USE RETINOL IN THE SUN?

According to dermatologist pure retinol acts as a strong exfoliant, which can render skin very sensitive to sun and UV damage. Therefore, it is highly advised that retinol be applied in the evening and always be used in conjunction with a high broad spectrum sunscreen during the day. (Retinol is therefore a product you want to use at night only). I remember when I first started using pure retinol (I think I must have gone in with more than a pea size and applying every night) because after 2weeks I noticed burns on my cheek. On enquiry I was told the amount of retinol I was using especially as I had only just started was too much and to reduce to using 2x a week and a pea size.

Many skincare professionals do not recommend retinol use during peak summer months. I would also stay away during the summer or reduce the amount and frequency used. 

HOW TO USE RETINOL!

I’m sure you can tell what I’m going to say from the ongoing pattern lol. Yes only use Retinol in the evening after cleansing and toning, apply a pea-sized amount to the tips of the fingers. Using too much retinol can irritate the skin (remember my story above). Apply the product onto your face, avoiding the eye area and massage  until fully absorbed into skin. For optimal results, allow for absorption before applying other skincare products. Fundamental advice for beginners is to limit initial use to once or twice a week, gradually increasing frequency to nightly as tolerated. Make sure you are listening to your skin as too much can cause irritation and possible burning. 

WHEN NOT TO USE RETINOL?

Topical retinol creams may increase skin sensitivity and potential for irritation simply due to its exfoliating mechanism. Sensitivity is even more increased especially when used with certain medications or in-office treatments such as chemical peels. Accordjng to dermatologist retinol creams can increase photosensitivity, therefore extensive periods of sun exposure are not encouraged. It is especially important to apply a broad spectrum sunscreen while using this product. Vitamin A products like tretinoin and retinol are not recommended during pregnancy. Please consult a physician to determine whether the use of a retinol cream is appropriate for you.

WHAT RETINOL PRODUCTS SHOULD I USE? 

Now as a brand we currently don’t produce a pure retinol cream for use. What we do have is our ACE Vitamin Glow Moisturiser which has Vitamin A aka Retinol in a small dose making it suitable for everyday during the day use. 

For pure retinol here are 4 recommendations that I have personally used and continue to use, which has and continues to work wonders on my skin.