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    Retinol - Skin Health Powerhouse ingredient!

     

    Nowadays, if you read through the ingredient list of any cream, you will be sure to find retinol there. Not only is it found in creams but it is also found in oils and serums. Since the skincare world is going gaga over this ingredient, it is only fair to be curious about what Retinol is.

    What is Retinol?

    Scientifically, retinol is a subtype of "retinoids" which itself is a derivation of vitamin A. Retinol is also known as vitamin A1. It is important to many of the tissues in our body, our eyes, bones, and skin. Once absorbed by the skin, it is converted to its active form - Retinoic Acid. This active ingredient helps solve several skin problems. Retinol works by quickening the cell turnover to give way to fresh skin cells that improve the texture of your skin on the surface as well as under the surface. 

    Retinol is a small molecule which makes it perfect to pass through the skin barrier. Once converted to Retinoic Acid, it binds to the cells of our skin's dermal layer and signals to increase cell turnover. Increased cell turnover = exfoliation! Retinol also functions to boost collagen production, and regulate oil production.

    Benefits of Retinol for Skin

    Retinol is, without doubt, a miracle worker as there are benefits you can reap when you incorporate it into your skincare routine. Let's take a look at all the benefits of retinol:

    Improve Acne

    Retinol regulates the function of oil glands which is often a culprit in acne. Increased cell turnover also helps to clear pores. Retinol also reduces inflammation caused by acne which can reduce potential for further breakouts. If you have severe acne, you might have to use a stronger retinoid or prescription. However, it is always best to consult a dermatologist when considering products to treat acne.

    Reduces Signs of Aging

    Aging can cause your skin to lose its elasticity. The skin loses water and collagen content, and becomes dry with visible signs of aging such as wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin. To combat these aging signs, retinol increases the production of collagen and gives the skin the hydration it needs to stay supple. At the same time, it prevents the loss of native collagen and elastin by slowing the activity of the enzyme that breaks them down. So it restores AND preserves the collagen in our skin, leading to a powerful anti-aging result!

    It further strengthens the epidermal layer so that it does not lose water as easily as it does. The epidermis controls Trans Epidermal Water Loss (TEWL). So a fortified epidermal layer means better water regulation. Researchers have concluded that in some cases, retinol has also increased the thickness of the epidermal layer.

    Evens Skin Tone/Texture

    Increased skin cell turnover can help even skin tone and also improve the skin's texture. Regular use of a light retinol product can fade hyperpigmentation. Retinol also is an anti-oxidant, so it works on the repairing sun-damaged skin, often a major issue for dark spots and hyperpigmentation.

    Increased cell turnover and collagen levels in the skin can reduce the appearance of fine lines. The skin cells will also be shed and replaced more quickly, helping smooth your skin texture and reduce the dull, dry look of dead skin. Retinol can help give your skin a youthful look, feel, and glow!

    Conclusion

    Retinol is an incredible product for the skin. Some people may want to consult their dermatologist before introducing retinol to their skincare regiment because it can cause peeling or irritation to sensitive skin. Persons with sensitive skin conditions like rosacea or eczema may not want to use retinol products. Increased cell turnover can also make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, so sunscreen use is ALWAYS recommended during the day.

    Because sunlight deactivates retinol, retinol products should be applied at night. It can take 4-6 weeks to start seeing results from regular retinol usage. You can read more about Vitamin A and Retinol technologies as well. At Hale Cosmeceuticals, we have a light retinol-based moisturizer (Re-Fine), which can be used on a daily basis for those looking to start incorporating this ingredient into their regimen!

     

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