Retinol could be your second best anti ageing tool after broad -spectrum sunscreen of course!
Here is an educational paper provided by Alumier MD;
Retinol is a vitamin A derivative and part of the retinoid family along with retinaldehyde (retinal), retinyl palmitate and retinal acetate. Retinol is considered to be a cosmetic ingredient and found mostly in skin care products. Prescription retinoid products such as tretinoin (Retin-A, Retin-A Micro, Renova), aldapalene (Differin) and tazarotene (Tazorac) are more potent than retinol, but have a higher chance of irritation.
Dr. Albert M. Kligman was a dermatologist who, along with his colleagues, first identified the use of retinoid acid as a treatment for acne and wrinkles in 1986 [1]. Over 40 years of established research and more than 700 published studies show that retinoids are helpful in treating aging skin by increasing firmness, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, and improving skin tone and texture [2]. Retinoids have also been shown to reduce acne and pore size appearance [3]. The benefits of retinol can be noticed as early as 6 to 8 weeks.
USAGE TIPS
Avoid jars. All forms of vitamin A eventually break down and oxidize when exposed to air and light turning a deeper yellow and then brownish. Only buy a retinoid product if it is packaged in an opaque pump container that minimizes exposure to light and air.
Start low and go slow. If you are new to retinoids, start using every 2 to 3 days or mix it with your moisturizer. Gradually increase frequency to nightly as your skin adjusts.
Look for encapsulated retinol. A polymer or wax encases the retinol, which protects it while on the shelf and then slowly releases it into the skin. This creates a time-release delivery that reduces irritation and gives the body more time to convert the retinol into retinoic acid.
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or greater.Daily use of sunscreen can help prevent premature signs of aging.
Use retinoids in the evening and wash your face in the morning. Vitamin A in all forms is destroyed by UV light and can make skin more sensitive to the sun. In addition, a study by the National Toxicology Program, which is a U.S. government research group, has concluded that retinyl palmitate may speed up the development of skin tumours when applied to the skin in the presence of sunlight [10].
Note: Do not use retinoids if you are pregnant, lactating or planning to become pregnant. AlumierMD always recommends conditioning the skin by starting with a low-percentage retinol product like Retinol Resurfacing Serum 0.25 or 0.5, since mild redness, peeling and irritation can occur when you begin using retinol products. AlumierMD’s Retinol Resurfacing Serums contain encapsulated retinol using cutting-edge technology to allow for a gradual time release overnight. By encapsulating the retinol and adding soothing and hydrating ingredients like niacinamide (vitamin B3), aloe and sodium hyaluronate, maximal results can be achieved in comfort Get further skincare advice on either home care or treatment options by completing the online consultation form HERE or give me a call for a chat about your skincare requirements
Laura x
The Peel Queen 07824512029