Your New Anti-Aging Partner – Retinol
Retinol, a derivative of Vitamin A, is known for its anti-aging and skin regenerative
powers. Just like Vitamins C and E, its vitamin counterparts in delivering brightening and anti-oxidating
results, retinol is widely used to formulate skincare products such as moisturizers and serums.
To understand how retinol repairs our skin, let's start by understanding our skin structure.
Our skin is made up of the epidermis, dermis and hypodermis, dermis, the middle layer of skin, is consisted of
collagen, elastin and fibroblast, of which collagen is the most important component to support the skin for a
healthy and plumped complexion. Collagen depletes over time and this can lead to fine lines and saggy skin -
this is when retinol comes into help. Retinol can reach the deepest layer of the dermis and to stimulate skin
cell turnover and collagen reproduction, which helps to minimize pores, smooth wrinkles and fine lines, refine
skin texture and restore skin's firmness.
Common Myths about the Side Effects of Retinol
The power of retinol to renew the skin and improve skin texture is indeed appealing,
but
many customers are hesitant to try because of the "side effects" that they might have heard of. Before
using
skincare products formulated with retinol, we should understand its properties and be aware of the usage.
The most common side effects of retinol include dryness, redness and even peeling.
Since
retinol is effective in accelerating cell turnover, your skin will go through an "adaptation period"
during
the early stage of use and you might experience above side effects. Therefore, it is important to
gradually
introduce retinol skincare products into your routine, adjust the frequency of use and concentration of
retinol in the products to build up the skin’s tolerance.
We can often find skincare products with various concentration of ingredients in the
market. Although "high concentration" might sound more effective, this is not the case for retinol. As
explained, you skin needs time to get used to the ingredient; products with high concentration of retinol
are
more likely to cause side effects.
Retinol Skincare Product Recommendations
You may ask, is retinol not suitable for daily usage? If I have sensitive skin, can I
still use retinol? Will my skin become thinner and more fragile if I use it continuously? In order to
maximize the benefits of retinol, choosing the suitable formula, together with proper usage are very
important.
Kiehl's
Retinol Skin-Renewing Daily Micro-Dose Serum is formulated with a
precise dosage of retinol. Developed with the innovative "micro-dosing" technology, this serum can be used
daily with minimal discomforting effects while improving the skin condition. Pure Retinol, the hero
ingredient in this serum, can visibly minimize pores in 2 weeks and reduce wrinkles in 4 weeks. The
formula also includes Peptide which simulates the production and organization of elastin to improve
elasticity and smooth wrinkles; While Ceramides can restore and strengthen the skin barrier while
retaining skin moisture.
Retinol Usage Tips
Same with all other skincare products, please do a patch test of your retinol skincare
product before applying on to your face. If there is no allergic reaction, it is recommended to start
using it 2 to 3 times per week, and use together with moisturizers. After the skin is acclaimed, it
could be used once per day.
Since retinol accelerates skin cell turnover, we should avoid using it with skincare
products formulated with acid, exfoliators and deep-cleansing products to minimize the irritation to the
skin. In addition, retinol can make the skin more sensitive to UV light, therefore it is necessary to
apply sunscreen in the morning to better protect the skin. We also recommend a "Morning 'C' Evening 'A'
Skincare Routine". In the morning, apply products formulated with Vitamin C for its skin brightening and
antioxidant effects. At night, use retinol products to promote skin renewal. Our
Clearly Corrective Dark
Spot Solution™ is formulated with Activated C and is effective in reducing dark spots and
post-acne marks,
correcting uneven skin tone and restoring skin’s radiance.
In addition, you can incorporate Kiehl's
Super Multi-Corrective Cream into your
skincare routine. This powerful 7-in-1 moisturizer is formulated with PhytoMimetic Vitamin A, which
promotes skin’s natural resurfacing process, reduces fine lines and refines skin’s texture.