The Benefits of Retinol.
So after much publicity recently, namely the BBC1 programme "The Truth About Looking Good", retinol came up as the gold standard for preventing the signs of skin ageing along with daily use of a broad spectrum sunscreen.
Retinol is a Vitamin A derivative first discovered by Dr Albert M. Kligman, a dermatologist who along with colleagues, first identified the use of retinol acid as a treatment for acne prone skin and wrinkles in 1986. Since then, over 40 years of established research and more than 700 published studies show that retinoids are helpful in treating ageing skins by increasing firmness, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, and improving skin tone and texture. Retinols have also been shown to reduce pore size appearance as it exfoliates the skin increasing cell turnover, with the benefits being noticed as early as 6 - 8 weeks.
Although this is one powerful tool in the fight against ageing and acne, one can make plenty of mistakes when it comes to the proper use and storage of retinol. Improper practices can decrease efficacy and have a negative effect on skin - exactly the opposite of what you're trying to achieve.
Always wear sunscreen in the daytime, especially after using retinol the night before.
As mentioned, retinol deeply exfoliates the skin and increases cell turnover, revealing more youthful skin.This delicate new skin needs to be protected at all times. UV rays cause dark spots, fine lines, wrinkles, sunburn and more. This new skin is even more susceptible to the sun's damaging effects. So be sure to wear a sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection with an SPF of at least 30.
Only buy retinol products that come in the correct packaging.
All forms of retinol will oxidize when exposed to air and sunlight. Avoid retinol that comes in jars or translucent packaging. Opaque pumps and tubes are your best option to protect the formula from exposure.
Look for the right formulations.
Choose products with encapsulated retinol. Encapsulated formulations create a milder exfoliation so there is less flaking, redness and irritation. This means that the retinol is encased by a polymer or wax which creates a time release function in the skin and protects it from expiring while on the shelf.
Cleanse your face in the morning.
If you're already using retinol, you know that it should be used at night for two reasons. It makes the skin more photosensitive and retinol is destroyed by exposure to UV light. Plus, a new study by the National Toxicology Program, a U.S. government research group found that retinyl palmitate can speed up the development of skin tumours when applied to the skin in the presence of sunlight. So bottom line; retinol is safe when used at night, but make sure you wash it off the morning before you go about your day.
Start low and go slow.
If you are new to retinoids, start using it every 2 to 3 days or mix it with your moisturizer. Gradually increase the frequency to nightly as your skin adjusts.
LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT RETINOL??
AlumierMD's Retinol Resurfacing Serum is available in three strengths of encapsulated retinol. It's cutting edge technology releases retinol throughout the night to prevent redness, peeling and irritation. The formula also contains soothing, and hydrating ingredients like niacinamide, aloe and sodium hyaluronate to keep the skin feeling comfortable and conditioned.
NOTE: Do not use retinoids if you are pregnant, lactating or planning to become pregnant.