What is Vitamin A? The Benefits of Using Retinol in your Skincare Routine
Retinol, It’s one of the most praised skincare ingredients of our time. Often called the gold standard by dermatologists, retinol does a whole bunch of good for your skin. It’s like a little bottle of magic that everyone should be using for youthful, glowing and healthy skin.
Retinol, also known as Vitamin A, has been proven and approved by dermatologists to help acne and signs of ageing. It’s an ingredient that you will find in skin clinics, dermatologist offices and high-end department counters all over the globe.
If you find yourself wondering what exactly retinol is don’t worry, well talk all about it, how it works with your skin, when and how to use retinol products, and even provide you with some product
Image MD Restoring Retinol Booster
What is Retinol & how does it work?
Let’s go back to science class, Retinol – alongside other retinoids, such as retinoic acid and retinyl palmitate - is a derivative of Vitamin A, which is one of the body’s key nutrients for boosting cell turnover. In a nutshell, retinol benefits the skin by stimulating the dermis layer (the bottom layers of the skin). This helps to boost collagen production, regenerate new cells and exfoliate away dead skin cells to reveal fresher skin!
What does Retinol do to the skin?
Retinol benefits the skin in a variety of ways. Vitamin A is an anti-aging powerhouse that works to visibly reduce fine lines and wrinkles along with maintaining skin plumpness. It is also a hero ingredient in treating acne, fading scarring, reducing pigmentation and keeping the skin glowing.
When should you start using Retinol?
Start applying
It’s never too late to start using Vitamin A; whatever you’re age topical retinol will improve the appearance of your fine lines and wrinkles. For best, long-lasting results we recommend to start incorporating retinol into your routine once you have reached your mid-20s. Jump on the bandwagon to prevent early signs of ageing, such as dark sunspots, crow’s feet and frown lines.
Only use retinol at night-time
When applying retinol to your face, it’s important that you only apply it during the evening. Why you may ask? Well, this superpower ingredient may be your knight in shining armour but that doesn’t mean it comes without its risks. Retinol increases your skin's sensitivity, making those already damaging UV rays (that the sun just loves to shine), 2x more harmful. We recommend applying your retinol at night-time only, following with SPF every single morning to protect your skin (but you’re already doing that anyway right?) So, make sure that when you go on your family vacation to the Bahamas, whenever that may be, do not pack your retinol, leave her at home with the dog and your husband.
There are side effects, so keep an eye out
Of course, there is a catch. Retinol is a great ingredient, but it comes with side effects that can be maintained. These side effects start from extreme sun sensitivity to dryness, and mild irritation. Nothing you haven’t handled before, but it’s just best to know. If you suffer from a skin condition such as eczema or rosacea, your best bet is to probably just avoid retinol and find an alternative anti-ageing product. Do not worry, there are tons out there to try.
Medik8 Crystal Retinal 10
It’s not just about your head
Apply retinol to your face of course, but how will you feel when your face is looking 21 yet your neck says otherwise? That’s right make sure you are including your neck when you dive into this new retinol routine. The neck is often neglected when it comes to skincare, and we understand, you want to focus on what the people notice first, I mean how often do you stare at someone’s neck? But believe us, it will be the main focus if you’re face and neck look like they are from two different centuries, so make sure you are applying it to your neck area in the evenings.
Just a precaution, make sure you consult a specialist before integrating retinol into your routine. We advise that you get a skin examination either online of face to face with a professional as it’s not suitable for everyone.
We offer skin tests and online consultations over the phone with our practitioners. Click here to find out more.