Let’s talk about Retinol
(2 ½ minute read)
Retinols are Vitamin A derivatives that help fight ageing by
increasing cell turnover and stimulating collagen
production.
Retinol is an over the counter product and is not the same as a
prescriptive Retinoid.
Retinol is the gold standard for anti ageing ingredients. It is an
active ingredient that I would recommend to anyone over the
age of 30 to incorporate into their regular skincare routine. We
would be looking at maintaining skin integrity, preventing
pigmentation, minimizing loss of collagen and elastin and
encouraging healthy skin cells.
Younger people may use Retinol for acne prone skin, oily skin,
enlarged pores and pigmentation issues.
Sensitive skin types usually can tolerate a retinol as it will help
the integrity of the skin but this would be introduced slowly and
build up to frequent use. Rosacea and acne skin types benefit
for the reduction in sebum (oil) production which will be causing
these problems. On the flip side if there is a flare up of either
condition then stop using until it has settled.
How does it work?
The small molecules will penetrate through the epidermis (top
layer of skin) to the dermis (middle layer) Once in this middle
layer of skin, retinol helps neutralize free radicals (pesky
molecules that can change a skin cell). This helps boost the
production of elastin and collagen, which creates a “plumping”
effect that can reduce the appearance of;
fine lines, enlarged pores and wrinkles, age spots, pigmentation
and can effectively treat melasma. It has an exfoliating effect
which will help with texture and tone.
While retinol is also sometimes used to help treat acne as well
as related scarring, severe acne is usually treated via a
prescription retinoid along with other medications that help
target inflammation and bacteria.
Ironically, sun exposure whilst using Retinol can put you at risk
of some of the same things you are trying to address such as
age spots and pigmentation. So, use your Retinol at night only
and follow up in the day with a good quality sunscreen (this is
not negotiable)
How often should I use Retinol?
Introducing Retinol to your skincare routine should be done
slowly. For example, use once a week then build up to twice
then three times and so on until you are happy that your skin is
responding. Some Retinols or Vitamin A can cause the skin to
become sensitive. If this is the case lessen the amount of days
you use the product until this settles. You will find your
balance.
It is not recommended to be using Vitamin A and Retinol or
Retinoids whilst pregnant. If you are pregnant or thinking about
it speak with your health professional.
Just Body has several Vitamin A and Retinol products available;
Ultraderm Vitamin A
Ultraderm Rapid Retinol Concentrate
Intraceuticals Vitamin A Booster
Not sure? Send me an email
[contact-form to=’joanne@justbody.com.au’ subject=’Retinol consultation enquiry’ jetpackCRM=’1′][contact-field label=’Name’ type=’name’ required=’1′ requiredtext='(required)’/][contact-field label=’Email’ type=’email’ required=’1′ requiredtext='(required)’/][contact-field label=’Website’ type=’url’ requiredtext='(required)’/][contact-field label=’Message’ type=’textarea’ requiredtext='(required)’/][/contact-form]
