What is retinol and why you need it in your skincare routine
Arguably skincare’s most celebrated ingredient, retinol, has taken the world by storm. But what is it? And why should you be incorporating it into your routine?
Retinols are an ingredient encompassed under the retinoid umbrella. Retinoids are a derivative of vitamin A, and retinols are a milder variant of retinoid, available without a prescription. Retinols have several benefits, including the ability to stimulate cell turnover, increase collagen production, combat clogged pores and minimise fine lines and pigmentation.
Retinol for acne-prone skin
Retinols essentially provide a natural exfoliation due to their ability to stimulate cell turnover, which leads to fewer congested pores, helps treat acne and prevent break-outs. So if you struggle with acne, incorporating retinol, or getting a retinoid prescription from a dermatologist can do wonders.
Boost collagen production
Another reason retinol is so popular is that it increases the skin’s collagen production. As we age, the collagen in our skin decreases, so for those wanting to increase their skin’s elasticity, retinols are a great addition.
How to use retinol
When it comes to retinol, patience is key as it can take up to six weeks before results become apparent. It is also important to start slowly. Retinol can have a drying and irritating effect, so to counteract this it is recommended to start 1-2 times a week until your skin becomes tolerant. This varies of course, depending on skin type, sensitivity and formula. To get the most out of your retinol product, apply it to clean, dry skin, and wait to apply any other serums or moisturiser for 20 minutes. If you have sensitive skin, follow it up with a barrier-restoring formula to minimise any potential irritation.
The Retinol Serum
We have just created our first retinoid product, The Retinol Serum, which features 0.3% encapsulated retinol. Encapsulated retinol has the ability to penetrate deeper into the skin as the encapsulation creates a time-release-like effect, minimising the risk of irritation. Combined with bakuchiol, a plant extract with similar properties to retinol, and nourishing, skin-caring ingredients such as chlorophyll and isoflavones (which are great for menopausal skin), The Retinol Serum provides maximal results, without the drying effect commonly associated with retinoids.
