Retinol has been used in cosmetology for long years and it doesn’t seem to lose fans. It’s good to know how it works, what it is and how to use it properly because there are lots of myths surrounding it. We round up experts’ opinions – see what they say about the antiaging retinol.
Retinol is sometimes called a miraculous cure. Currently, there are advanced forms of retinol that are supposed to intensely repair skin, remove dead cells, increase production of collagen, help treat acne, banish dark spots and minimize face lines.
Too good to be true? Do new forms of retinol really work like that? We round up opinions from cosmetologists.
What is retinol?
Retinol is one of the many forms of vitamin A belonging to one “family”.
There are many different types of vitamin A products – supplements, creams, serums. Retinol is made out of tiny molecules which make it a perfectly-working, strong active ingredient – this feature enables it to penetrate the dermis. The molecules turn into acid in the skin, enhancing the cells. To see a visible effect on the skin, you need the right retinol-based skin-care products.
Is retinol as miraculous as they say?
The answer is… sure, it is! Retinol is the most thoroughly tested cosmetic ingredient. We know it has a direct effect on the health of skin and brings many different benefits: accelerates skin repair so you free skin of dead cells, makes skin look fresh, stimulates skin to produce more collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid. That is why it prevents occurence of wrinkles. Retinol ensures plumpness, removes spots and evens out the skin tone.
What effect does retinol have on skin?
Cosmetologists say it is an ingredient that “communicates with cells”. Why? Because retinol is able to connect with a cell and make it function like a healthy skin cell again. The unusual thing about retinol is the number of benefits for skin. It helps us tackle many different skin problems!
- Retinol is an active exfoliating ingredient which boosts cell renewal.
- It makes old cells fall off, uncovering new, fresh skin.
- It has a stimulating effect and improves production of collagen and elastin.
- It helps get rid of scars, uneven texture, dark spots and wrinkles.
- It balances oil production.
- Does the manufacturing process of vitamin A products matter?
Yes, it does. You must always make sure your product holds suitable form and concentration of retinol. The word retinol or vitamin A derivative on a packaging doesn’t mean a product will build collagen in your skin.
Who should use retinol-based products?
Everyone, that’s for sure, but it must be customized to the condition of skin.
A high concentration of retinol doesn’t serve all skins. Sensitive skin will benefit from a mild form and low concentration of vitamin A. On the other hand, highly-concentrated retinol works for treating sun-damaged and aging skins.
It’s also effective if you fight acne breakouts. Everyone, regardless of skin type or age, can find the best retinol-based product for their face.
How to use retinol-based products?
It’s always indicated to use retinol before sleep. Retinoids intensify the cellular renewal so the skin is hypersensitive to the sunlight.
The frequency of use depends on the intensity of your products and state of your skin, ranging from 2 to 7 days a week. If you use high concentrations, sunblock (high SPF) is a must to avoid hyperpigmentation.
Cosmetologists highlight that retinol works so actively that it fails to give effects or – in extreme cases – gives you an allergic reaction if you use it incorrectly.
How long should you use retinol?
To get the desired effect, you should undergo a long treatment.
If your retinol serum has a good effect and replenishes collagen, then you don’t need retinol creams, toners or other products. You won’t make it work faster by adding additional products and intensifying the treatment. The skin needs time to bounce back, sometimes from 2 to 3 months.
Again, remember to use retinol carefully. At first the product may be irritating because you may experience redness and slight dryness or flaking because the skin undergoes repair. However, this surely pays off.
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