Retinol, a wonder ingredient

Date: 03/03/2013

Author: Ingrid Katz (Pure Aesthetics)

Good skin requires commitment. It needs to be properly maintained and cared for. There is one ingredient that will dramatically change your skin for the better. That ingredient is Retinol.

Retinol, Vitamin A in its purest and most active form, helps increase cell turnover and boosts the production of collagen thus revealing a fresh, glowing complexion and treating a variety of skin concerns, such as:

  • Acne
  • Oily skin
  • Fine lines & wrinkles
  • Pigmentation & age spots
  • Enlarged pores
  • Blackheads
  • Scarring
  • Elasticity & firmness
  • Dryness

There are few important points to bear in mind when purchasing and using products containing Retinol:

  • Packaging matters! Avoid retinols that come in jars. As soon the product is exposed to air or light, the retinol will degrade and become less effective. Look for pump bottles with opaque packing.
  • Retinol is the ingredient you want. Derivatives of retinol include retinyl palmitate and retinyl linoleate, and are commonly mixed with buffering agents to reduce irritation which makes them drastically less effective than pure Retinol.
  • Persevere. It may take over a month of using retinol before you notice a difference in your skin. So be consistent with your use of it.
  • Don't overdose. This can cause the skin to react adversely. If you experience sensitivity, reduce the dosage initially or mix it with your basic moisturiser before applying. Your skin will acclimatise and so again, persevere. The results will be worth it!
  • Wear sunscreen EVERYDAY. The use of Retinol will increase your sunburn potential and so the use of a good sunscreen is non-negotiable. Don't undo all your hard work by exposing your skin to the sun. We recommend the Heliocare range.

Optiphi's Protecting & Rejuvenating Revitilisers contain high concentrates of active Retinol, aimed at reversing the effects of time and the harsh environment we live in. They also address all the skin concerns mentioned above.