What are Retinoids and why are they good for the skin?

There has been a lot of talk recently about the effectiveness of retinoids in skincare. Many dermatologists now believe that retinoids may be the key to anti-ageing. But what are they and how do they work? Vitamin Power All retinoids are vitamin A derivatives, but each retinoid works slightly differently. There are over 4,000 different retinoids, but only a few are used in anti-ageing skincare. The most popular retinoid for anti-ageing is retinol, and you’ll find this in many skincare creams and serums. Retinol is actually pure vitamin A, which means it is effective at low concentrations. However, retinol may be too potent for some skin types, so a vitamin A precursor called retinaldehyde is also often used. Once applied, Retinaldehyde is converted into vitamin A by the skin itself, which helps to avoid adverse reactions because the skin cannot be overloaded. What do they actually do? Retinoids work by drastically speeding up the rate of cell renewal in the skin. By shedding older cells, the newer, younger cells are pushed to the surface of the skin, leading to smoother, more even-toned skin. But retinoids do more than just enhance natural exfoliation; they speed up all skin cell renewal, which means they increase collagen production too, for firmer, less wrinkled skin. The way that retinoids work may seem quite simple, but the effects speak volumes. Retinoid Tips and Tricks They are extremely light sensitive. Keep your products in a drawer or cupboard and wear them only at night so that the…

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There has been a lot of talk recently about the effectiveness of retinoids in skincare. Many dermatologists now believe that retinoids may be the key to anti-ageing. But what are they and how do they work?

Vitamin Power

All retinoids are vitamin A derivatives, but each retinoid works slightly differently. There are over 4,000 different retinoids, but only a few are used in anti-ageing skincare. The most popular retinoid for anti-ageing is retinol, and you’ll find this in many skincare creams and serums. Retinol is actually pure vitamin A, which means it is effective at low concentrations. However, retinol may be too potent for some skin types, so a vitamin A precursor called retinaldehyde is also often used. Once applied, Retinaldehyde is converted into vitamin A by the skin itself, which helps to avoid adverse reactions because the skin cannot be overloaded.

What do they actually do?

Retinoids work by drastically speeding up the rate of cell renewal in the skin. By shedding older cells, the newer, younger cells are pushed to the surface of the skin, leading to smoother, more even-toned skin. But retinoids do more than just enhance natural exfoliation; they speed up all skin cell renewal, which means they increase collagen production too, for firmer, less wrinkled skin. The way that retinoids work may seem quite simple, but the effects speak volumes.

Retinoid Tips and Tricks

  • They are extremely light sensitive. Keep your products in a drawer or cupboard and wear them only at night so that the retinoids aren’t rendered inactive by sunlight.
  • Cosmetic versions can take a long time to start working, and you may need to persevere for several months before seeing changes.
  • If you’re concerned about sensitivity, start out with a less-potent retinoid and switch to a stronger one after a few weeks, to allow your skin to get used to it.
  • Your skin may start to peel and become red or dry. This is normal; start using nourishing skincare and gentle cleansers to support your skin’s renewal.

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unwanted hair removal results SkinBase IPL legs treatment January Hayami Cosmeticsunwanted hair removal results SkinBase IPL legs treatment January Hayami Cosmetics
Intense Pulsed Light, Unwanted Hair

Hayami Cosmetics

Client Testimonial: “Jodie is extremely professional and knowledgeable throughout the IPL treatment sessions. She explains the process and what to expect so that you are put at ease from the first consultation. During my IPL sessions, Jodie marked up the areas and avoided any moles or damaged skin, then preps using the cooler handle before a light shot. The light shot itself really doesn’t hurt, it’s done in seconds. The fact the skin is cooled first makes this an easy process to tolerate. I genuinely didn’t feel in pain at all and Jodie applied a lovely aloe balm to soothe the skin straight away. If anything I felt my appointments were more of a therapy as I knew I would be hair free come my holiday. After each session I came away feeling the progress getting better and better and by week 5 there was hardly any hair growth. I didn’t feel the need to shave anymore. I felt more confident and there is much less maintenance at home now which means I have more time for other things. I would highly recommend IPL hair removal by SkinBase and with Jodie as she made me feel at ease from the moment I asked about it and the difference it makes is life changing for someone who wasn’t so confident in her skin. I can’t wait for Summer and my holiday. Thanks Jodie & SkinBase.”