Retinol And Why You Need It
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Retinol is another name for Vitamin A. It belongs to a class of ingredients called retinoids, which simply means it’s part of a larger group of compounds that are all related to Vitamin A. Retinoids are perhaps the most studied of all ingredients used in skin care and decades of research prove that they work. I’m sure you have heard of the anti-aging benefits of Retin-A and the highly effective acne treatment Differin. However, the active ingredient in prescription forumlas (tretinoin), has a history of causing irritation.
Retinol, on the other hand, is still highly effective but better tolerated. Prescription or not, retinoids all work the same way. They communicate with skin cells, causing them to act as if they were younger and healthier. Younger healthier skin produces new cells faster and this increase in cell turn over leads to positive results for your skin, including increased collagen and elastin production, reduced wrinkle depth, improvement in skin texture, reduction in breakouts, smaller pores, lightening of sun damage and pigmentation, and generally glowing skin.
I have tried to add retinol to my routine on a few occasions, knowing the results it promised. Each time I failed miserably. After weeks of sensitized, peeling, and burning skin I threw in the towel. Why did I fail? Simply, I needed to find the correct product.
We now have a brand new breed of retinol, formulated with hydrating and anti-inflammatory ingredients to combat irritating side effects. After using one of these for six months, I can say with confidence that the results are transformative. Since starting my regimen, I have received more compliments on my skin, and I can see the difference in texture, tone and added glow! Here are some tips I’ve learned that should help you successfully add retinol to your regimen!
- Talk to a skin care professional to determine which product is best for you. With so many choices, a knowledgeable aesthetician can help you narrow down the field. Starting with a lower concentration moisturizer is a great way to get begin.
- I can’t stress this enough. Start slowly and remember that more is NOT better. Allowing your skin time to adjust to this powerful ingredient is essential for success. Typically, a twice per week application of a pea sized amount is a good place to start.
- Be aware of common reactions that can occur while using retinol. Always wear SPF; retinol makes your skin sensitive. Also, your skin may be more sensitive to peels, microdermabrasion and other facial treatments, so be sure to let your skin care professional know you are using any product containing retinol. Remember that, facial waxing while using retinol is a big no - no. Doing so could result in serious injury to your skin. Discontinue use for 7 to 10 days before waxing or just get threaded instead.
Follow these tips and enjoy beautiful glowing skin!
