My number 1 tip/product/ingredient for improving the look and function of your skin is the use of retinol. By using the correct retinol for your skin, introducing it slowly to your skin and protecting your skin after with a daily spf, I believe everyone’s skin can look better.
But first, let’s bust some retinol myths! Retinol does not ‘thin the skin’, it actually thickens the dermis (the big, spongy layer of skin underneath the epidermis) and the thickening of the dermis creates a plumped and youthful appearance. Retinol does, however, thin the top layer of skin (the stratum corneum if you’re interested) by speeding up cell turnover from within. The dead cells are literally pushed out of the skin, rather than being sloughed off via scrub or peel exfoliation. Retinol is not drying either- when you first start to use retinol it has a delay of a few days before it ‘kicks in’, so if you don’t introduce the retinol slowly to the skin (i.e every 3rd day to begin with, depending on the strength of the retinol) you will get a rush of dead skin to the surface which represents itself as what appears to be dry skin. Lastly, retinol is safe! (Pregnant or breast-feeding women should avoid though) It is one of the most researched skincare ingredients, and the findings always come back positive for this anti-oxidant, cell communicator!
Here’s some of my favourites for different skin needs….
This serum is powered by Tri-Active Technology (in other words there are 3 elements of retinol to treat your skin); a fast-acting retinoid, a time-released retinol and a retinol booster. This ensures quick results and effective long-term results with minimal ‘introductory irritation’. It’s of a lightweight consistency and doesn’t sting on application. You apply nightly (or every other night if preferred) underneath your regular moisturiser. Fine lines are visibly reduced, and skin looks more youthful. This retinol is great for anyone suffering from breakouts, blackheads and open pores. For those of that are particularly wary of retinol or perhaps you’ve had a bad experience in the past, try this little bottle of ‘retinol mimicking’ magic from Ren instead. This oil combines pure, natural Vitamin A with Retinoid Analogue (a combination of natural ingredients that have retinol-like properties). You warm 5 drops in your hands every night and press into the skin before applying your night moisturiser, it doesn’t feel heavy or sticky, and it smells delicious! This ‘retinol’ noticeably takes the redness out of the skin, it evens out the complexion, smooths fine lines and generally just makes your skin look better! This paraben-free retinol is gentle enough to use morning and evening, partly thanks to the inclusion of an aloe vera, green tea and rosehip blend to soothe and Siberian ginseng root to reduce inflammation. It also contains a powerful anti-oxidant and hyaluronic acid for hydration. This jelly-like cream is a pleasure to use and works really well on environmentally damaged skin, reducing pigmentation and generally making it look and feel much smoother. It puts the ‘bounce’ back in your face! Combining science and nature, this paraben-free range is gentle on the purse yet hard-hitting on the skin! The silky serum contains Vitamin E and Hyaluronic Acid to combat dryness associated with age, and it’s gentle enough to be used am and pm (a pea-sized amount). The night cream is one of their best-sellers, because not only is this wonderfully rich cream a pleasure to use, but the results seem to get better and better as you work your way through the pot! This retinol is really suited to people with a drier, lack lustre skin wishing to firm up and brighten up! Retinol+ Anti-Ageing Renewing Night Cream £19.99
Congested Skin: MURAD Retinol Youth Renewal Serum
Sensitive: REN Bio Retinoid Anti-Wrinkle Concentrate Oil
Dehydrated: SKIN DESIGN LONDON Retinol
Anti-Ageing: SUPER FACIALIST Retinol+ Anti-Ageing Restoring Serum
