Retinol …. Exactly what your skin needs!
If you’re already using retinol as part of your skincare routine then you will already know that it is the Gold standard for preventing the signs of ageing. Other than broad spectrum sunscreen (SPF) there is no product that is better at warding off fine lines, wrinkles and age spots. It is also used for Acne- prone skin as it exfoliates the skin and increases cell turnover.
Retinol is a powerful tool in the fight against Ageing and Acne.
If you’re new to retinol or have never heard of it this skin blog will give you an explanation of what it does, a guide to different strengths available, possible side effects and recommendations of products and use.
So …. What is Retinol?
Retinol is a topical derivative of Vitamin A also known as a Retinoid. It is available to buy over the counter but shouldn’t be confused with stronger retinoid versions such as Retin-A (pure retinoic acid) which requires a prescription.
Pay attention to the concentration of retinol as it does come in various strengths. The stronger the concentrate the more likely it will cause redness and irritation to your skin, especially if you have sensitive skin.
The key when starting to incorporate retinol into your skincare routine is start off LOW & SLOW. Basically, start on a low concentrate and apply once or twice a week to acclimatise your skin, slowly building up to every night usage. If irritation is caused decrease the usage.
Guide to different strengths.
LOW
Retinol 0.01% – 0.03% can be applied on a daily basis.
MODERATE
Retinol 0.04% – 0.2% initially applied twice a week and increase if the skin can tolerate it.
HIGH
Retinol 0.5% – 1% superpower version should only be used after your skin has gotten used to moderate retinol concentrates. Using high levels of retinol seven evenings a week can really improve your skins collagen production.
WHEN SHOULD YOU START USING RETINOL?
NOW!!
Thanks to innovative skincare technology, like so many other products, retinols aren’t like they used to be 10/15 years ago.
Experts advise that the ideal time to start using retinol is from the age of 25, as this is the point your skins collagen and elastin production starts to slow down.
You need to remember that skincare is a long game and not a quick fix, you have to be consistent and, as always, prevention is better than cure!
Having said that, you are never too late to start a proper skincare routine and one that includes retinol.
Your skin is the largest organ in your body, constantly breathing and regenerating. Getting some much-needed ingredients into your dermis is ALWAYS a good idea.
The key is to make sure you are using the correct concentration of retinol, and this will depend on your skin type and any skin concerns/complaints you have.
This may mean taking a “trial & error” approach as everyone’s skin reacts differently. Always consult a skincare professional to help advise you on what will be best for your skin.
ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS FROM USING RETINOL?
There is a reason for Retinoic Acid only being available via prescription. Those who suffer with Acne and have been prescribed Retin A are evidence of this.
Depending on your skin type and the strength of the retinol your skin may go red, dry or flaky. If this happens decrease the frequency of use or use a lower strength and build up from there.
When using retinol products, you must also be aware of UV exposure as this can heighten sensitivity to your skin.
Retinol should be used in the evening as an overnight treatment and thoroughly washed off in the morning with an appropriate cleanser and water. You should always include a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF) as part of your daily skincare routine regardless of the weather conditions, but particularly after using retinol the night before.
ALUMIERMD RETINOL PRODUCTS AVAILABLE.
RETINOL EYE GEL
An innovative microencapsulated anti-ageing retinol eye gel that dramatically improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and also firms the skin.
BENEFITS
Dramatically reduces the appearance of fine lines and crow’s feet.
Increases firmness and elasticity.
Contains an encapsulated gentle slow release retinol.
Effectively hydrates delicate skin around the eyes.
Fragrance-free, sulphate-free, paraben-free, mineral oil-free & dye-free.
THE SCIENCE
Retinol Eye Gel contains a pure, gentle and cutting-edge microencapsulated retinol formulated especially for the delicate eye area. This timed-release retinol, firms, tightens and strengthens the skin reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. By encapsulating the retinol, as well as adding soothing and hydrating ingredients such as,
Allantoin – extracted from the comfrey plant, increases water content in the skin and enhances exfoliation improving skin smoothness.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) – increases ceramides and free fatty acids in the skin which are key components of its protective lipid barrier. Keeps in moisture and boosts hydration, also brightens the skin while calming redness and increasing tolerance to topical retinoids.
Sodium Hyaluronate
Bisabolol – main component of the oil extracted from chamomile and is known for its soothing and skin restoring properties.
Which helps achieve beautiful results in comfort.
Recommended use is to start off with 2-3 nights and gradually build to every night.
RETINOL RESURFACING SERUM SERIES
0.25
Early signs of ageing
General skin brightening
Mild acne
All skin types
Starter strength
0.5
Post inflammatory
Acne scarring
Pigmentation
Acne
Starter strength for 30+ years
1.0
Only use if you have previously preconditioned your skin with regular use of strength 0.5
Wrinkles
Pigmentation
Acne
Acne scarring
Re-texturize skin
BENEFITS
Dramatically reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and blemishes.
Increases skin firmness, strength and elasticity.
Contains an encapsulated gentle slow release retinol to minimise the irritation commonly associated with retinoids.
Contains MATRIXYL SYNTHE’6, Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide (vitamin B3)
Antioxidants protect and neutralise free radicals from the sun and pollution.
Fragrance-free
Sulphate-free
Paraben-free
Mineral oil-free
Dye-free
THE SCIENCE
Retinol Resurfacing Serums are pure potent microencapsulated retinol serums that help you achieve a more radiant and even complexion.
They reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles also improve the texture and tone of the skin by stimulating collagen production and speeding up cell turnover.
The formula also targets
Acne- prone skin
Minimises pore size appearance
Evens skin tone
Unlike many other retinoids, Alumier retinols are microencapsulated using cutting-edge technology to allow for a gradual timed release into the skin overnight.
By encapsulating the retinol and adding soothing and hydrating ingredients such as
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Tea Extracts
Honey
Sodium Hyaluronate
Maximum results can be achieved in comfort.
