What is Retinol and why do I need it?
In the ever-evolving world of skincare, certain ingredients stand out as game-changers, and retinol is one of them. Renowned for its transformative effects on the skin, retinol has earned its place as a staple in countless skincare routines. Part of the Retinoid family, Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, works to stimulate cell turnover, effectively revealing fresher, more youthful skin beneath the surface. It boosts collagen, diminishes fine lines and wrinkles and also enhances skin texture, leaving a smoother, more radiant complexion. In this article, we delve into the importance of retinoids & retinol in skincare, exploring its role in promoting skin renewal and combating various skin concerns.
What are retinoids?
Retinoids are a class of chemical compounds derived from vitamin A or chemically related to it. Retinol is one type of Retinol. There are different types of retinoids, including:
Retinol:
This is the most common form of vitamin A used in skincare products. Retinol is a milder version of retinoids and is converted into retinoic acid (the active form of vitamin A) once it's applied to the skin.
Retinaldehyde / Retinal:
This is another precursor of retinoic acid, which is more potent than retinol but less irritating than retinoic acid itself. Often referred to as Retinal, it is often found in formulations that require a prescription or are marketed as professional-grade skincare.
Retinoic acid (tretinoin):
This is the active form of vitamin A and is only available by prescription. It is the most potent retinoid.
Retinyl palmitate:
This is a less potent form of retinoid commonly found in over-the-counter skincare products.
Bakuchioil Peptides:
Bakuchiol is a natural compound derived from the seeds and leaves of the Psoralea corylifolia plant, also known as the babchi plant. When combined with peptide, they compliment each other's benefits, resulting in a potent anti-aging skincare ingredient. Bakuchiol provides retinol-like effects without the potential irritation, while peptides support the skin's natural collagen production, resulting in firmer, smoother, and more youthful-looking skin.
BENEFITS:
Retinoids are considered one of the most effective ingredients in skincare for addressing a variety of concerns. Here's why you might need them:
Promotes Skin Renewal:
Retinol works by accelerating the skin's natural cell turnover process, which means it helps shed old, dead skin cells more quickly, revealing fresher, younger-looking skin underneath. This can lead to smoother, more radiant skin over time.
Improves Skin Texture:
By increasing cell turnover, retinol helps to improve skin texture, making it look smoother and more even-toned. It can also help minimise the appearance of pores and rough patches on the skin's surface.
Reduces Fine Lines and Wrinkles:
Retinol has been clinically proven to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating collagen production in the skin. Collagen is a protein that helps keep the skin firm and youthful-looking. As we age, our collagen production naturally declines - Retinol helps to counteract this decline.
Addresses Hyperpigmentation:
Retinol can help fade dark spots, sun spots, and other forms of hyperpigmentation by promoting cell turnover and exfoliation, which helps to remove excess pigment from the skin's surface.
Treats Acne:
Retinol is effective in treating acne by unclogging pores, reducing inflammation, and preventing the formation of new breakouts. It can also help fade acne scars and marks over time.
HOW TO USE RETINOIDS:
Start Slowly:
If you're new to retinol, begin by using it only a 1-2 times a week to allow your skin to adjust. Gradually increase frequency as your skin becomes accustomed to it.
Cleanse Your Skin:
Start with clean, dry skin. Use a gentle cleanser to remove any makeup, dirt, and oil before applying retinol.
Apply at Night:
Retinol can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it's best to apply it at night. This also allows it to work while you sleep, promoting skin renewal. Start with a pea-sized amount for your entire face to avoid overdoing it and causing irritation.
Moisturize After:
Wait a few minutes for the retinol to absorb into your skin, then follow up with a moisturizer to help minimize any dryness or irritation.
Use Sunscreen During the Day:
Since retinol can increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun, it's crucial to wear sunscreen during the day to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Be Patient:
Results from retinol may take some time to appear, so be patient and consistent with your application. It can take several weeks to months before you notice significant improvements in your skin's texture and appearance.
Consider Your Routine:
Be mindful of other products you're using in conjunction with retinol. Any BHAs, AHAs and skin toners, actives that are designed to exfoliate the skin so avoid using these in conjunction with Retinol.
Consult a skin therapist or dermatologist:
If you have any concerns or experience severe irritation, it's always a good idea to consult with a dermatologist for personalised advice and guidance on using retinol effectively. If you are finding it irritates your skin, you can apply retinol between two layers of moisturiser, so your skin gradually gets used to retinol rather than directly applying it. Retinoids can be used in conjunction with hydrating and moisturising ingredients like hyaluronic acid, and ceramides.
WHICH PRODUCT IS RIGHT FOR ME?
Our SELF Therapists recommend the below products which can be purchased online or in salon. Please note that Retinoids are not considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, apart from the iS Clinical Emulsion 3.0+ listed below:
IS CLINICAL RETINOL EMULSION 0.3
(iS Clinical Retinol+ Emulsion 0.3 is suitable during pregnancy or when breastfeeding. This is the only known retinol safe on the market to use whilst pregnant and/or breast feeding.
If you’re unsure what you need - why not book in a skin consultation - our skin consultations are currently complimentary for the month of February and you’ll also receive a detailed skin plan based on your skin concerns. Book here.
