Retinol is excellent for the skin because it stimulates the production of collagen and hyaluronic acid, fights wrinkles and reduces pores, among many other things.
This component can be found in various formats in cosmetic products such as facial serums, creams and gels. Choosing a retinol serum to include in your skincare routine is a great option. Discover all its benefits!
What is retinol?
Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A that has been used in cosmetics for approximately 40 years. Initially, it was employed as a treatment for acne, but over time its effectiveness in preventing and treating wrinkles and age spots was discovered, thanks to its ability to renew the skin.
How does retinol work?
Retinol, a cosmetic ingredient designed for topical use, is backed by numerous medical and scientific studies validating its benefits. But, what is the use of retinol? Let’s see how it works!
Retinol penetrates deep into the skin layers, thanks to its lightweight molecular structure, and stimulating the production of collagen and elastin. What makes it exceptional is that it also improves the appearance of the outer layer of the skin. It benefits the cellular renewal process, resulting in the rapid removal of dead skin cells and the emergence of new, brighter skin layers. Additionally, retinol regulates the process of keratinization to smooth the complexion. However, it can irritate sensitive skin and should not be used if the skin will be exposed to the sun.
Among the advances related to this derivative of vitamin A are cold manufacturing methods, encapsulation and controlled release time, which allow delivering the same concentration as regular retinol products but releasing it into the skin over hours instead of minutes, reducing irritation without compromising effectiveness.
What are the benefits of retinol?
Retinol offers a range of benefits for the skin, including:
- Stimulates collagen synthesis.
- Regulates sebum production.
- Promotes cell renewal.
- Improves skin texture.
- Increases skin hydration.
- Is the primary agent for reversing photoaging.
- Minimizes pores.
- It has antioxidant properties by preventing the reduction of the SOD enzyme during oxidative stress.
- Reduces the appearance of fine and deep wrinkles.
- Prevents hyperkeratinization.
- Promotes skin radiance by renewing cells, revealing younger-looking skin.
- Stimulates collagen production, helping to combat sagging and preventing collagenase degradation.
How to apply retinol?
When it comes to applying retinol, it’s crucial to proceed with caution and follow these usage guidelines. Experts advise against indiscriminate use without qualified guidance, meaning using it randomly without knowing the appropriate dosage, which products not to combine it with, the optimal time for application or the risk of developing spots if taking medication concurrently. One important tip: if any discomfort is experienced on the skin after the initial applications, it’s advisable to space out its use until the skin adjusts. Additionally, avoid contact with the eyes, and unless stated otherwise on the packaging, always apply it with high sunscreen protection if planning to go outdoors.
What is the best time to use retinol?
Experts agree that the aging process begins around the age of 25, suggesting that this is the appropriate time to consider using retinol. Although it has traditionally been recommended to start incorporating it into your skincare routine from the age of thirty, nowadays cosmetics are guided more by individual needs than by age. Whether it’s detecting the first signs of aging, such as spots or fine lines, or simply the desire to get ahead and take advantage of new technologies, many women are opting to start earlier. However, it’s essential to do so under the supervision of a dermatologist.
Historically, the use of retinol during summer and sunny days has been discouraged. However, thanks to nanotechnology and liposomal molecules, it’s now possible to use cosmetic products with retinoids even in summer. Of course, it should always be complemented with a good sunscreen.
How to include retinol in your skincare routine?
It’s crucial to start its application gradually and progressively to allow the skin to adapt. It can be applied daily in low doses or intermittently, as an intensive treatment. Those with sensitive skin should be cautious when choosing retinol products. Therefore, it’s recommended to consult with a dermatologist beforehand.
When applying retinol serum, remember to spread it on your neck and décolletage as well, areas we often neglect but where signs of aging tend to be quite noticeable. If you find these areas too sensitive for your current formula, you can add a few drops of a moisturizer rich in ceramides to soften it; or alternatively, opt for another retinoid specifically formulated for these areas. Typically, these products contain gentler doses of vitamin A, are fragrance-free, and contain many soothing ingredients.