Ingredient in focus: Retinol

Retinol, a concentrated form of Vitamin A, has been heralded as the anti-ageing wonder. Did you know that worldwide it is the #1 dermatologist-recommended, non-prescription skin-aging solution? It’s all down to its ability to speed up skin renewal and minimize the signs of aging. Want to find out more? Here at BeautyFeatures.ie we’ve got you covered!

Up until your early 30s your cells turn over every 28 days, generating a fresh layer of pristine skin. But after your mid-30s your cell regeneration slows down, turning over every 50, 60, or 70 days.This slowing down is what causes ageing and wrinkles.

Retinol (a type of retinoid, or Vitamin A-derivative) is actually able to sink deep into your skin and speed up cell turnover. Yep, that’s right: retinol works on a deep cellular level and not just on a topical level, like most other skincare products do. This is how it is able to dramatically improve the look of your complexion over time. And while consistent nightly use is needed over the course of at least three months, you will definitely notice a visible reduction in fine lines, dark spots, uneven skin tone, texture and pore size, and even acne.

Retinol sometimes gets a bad rap because of the redness occasionally associated with it. As we have seen, Retinol causes skin to shed cells faster than normal, so when first using it you are likely to experience some irritation, dryness and/or breakouts as your skin gets through the adjustment period. But there are ways to minimise these side effects.

Firstly, it is crucial to startslowly. Apply Retinol just one night a week for one week, two nights a week for two weeks, three nights a week for three weeks, and then every night - or every other night for sensitive skin.Always monitor the skin for irritation before increasing use.

Only use the tiniest amount on clean, dry skin at night, just enough to cover your face in a sheer layer of cream. If your retinoid is a serum, apply a pea-size drop over theentireface, wait 20 minutes for it to absorb, and then apply your usual serums and moisturizers on top of it.

Here at BeautyFeatures.ie you can choose from some of the world’s top skincare brands for your Retinol needs. The Ordinary has combined Squalane, a plant-derived hydrating emollient, with Retinol in a powerful yet gentle serum available in three strengths, to allow your skin to get used to it: go from The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane to start with, to The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane, when your skin has adapted to the new regime. The Inkey List Retinol combines 1% stable Retinol and 0.5% Granactive Retinoid, which slightly stronger than retinol. But no fear - its slow release formula minimises irritation and provides an effective delivery system.The Ordinary also offers a Granactive Retinoid emulsion, in a variety of strengths. For a soothing oil formula look no further than Pestle & Mortar Superstar Night Oil, which combines two types of Retinol with a superior blend of cold pressed, organic oils containing Vitamins A,E,C and B along with Omegas 3 and 6. If you prefer cream formulas, we recommend Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair: active microencapsulated pure Retinol helps increase cell turnover, while powerful peptides and antioxidant Vitamin C help fight signs of aging. And for the eyes, Dermalogica has created the powerful Dermalogica Age Reversal Eye Complex, reversing the signs of ageing in the delicate eye area.

Finally, it is absolutely essential to use a broad spectrum sunscreen (like Dermalogica Solar Defense Booster) every morning during the day, as Retinol can increase your skin’s photosensitivity. If using acne-fighting products, use these on the nights you don’t use retinol, to prevent irritation. Do not use Retinol while pregnant or breastfeeding.

Regular use of Retinol will give your skin an intense anti-ageing boost: try it today! Order from BeautyFeatures.ie for next day delivery!