Retinol for facial skin: what is it, use, application

Among the most powerful anti-aging components in the composition of cosmetic formulas, the notorious retinol is distinguished. The anti-aging effect is not the only beneficial property of retinoids: owners of oily skin with a predisposition to acne are also recommended to use vitamin A in their beauty routine. We will tell you why you need retinol for facial skin and give instructions for using products with different concentrations.

Retinol – what is it?

Retinol (retinoid) – this is the form and common popular name of vitamin A from the group of fat-soluble substances, discovered first among other vitamins in 1913 – hence its name. Retinol in cosmetics has pronounced anti-aging, renewing and antioxidant properties.

Forms of retinol in cosmetics

Pure retinol is unstable, breaks down under the influence of ultraviolet radiation and oxygen, therefore it is used in a modified form as part of cosmetics.

In the basis of cosmetic formulas, more stable forms of vitamin A derivatives are found as:

• (Retinol acetate) retinol acetate,
• (Retinol palmitate) retinol palmitate,
• (vitamin A-acetic acid) rutinol or retinoic acid,
• (Retinaldehyde / retinal) retinaldehyde – is less common, as it is the most unstable of all the forms presented.

Most often, these substances can be found in the composition of anti-aging care and products for oily skin with visible imperfections.

Application of retinol

How does retinol work and what is it? Due to their unique properties, vitamin A derivatives are used not only for cosmetic purposes, but also in pharmacology, having a great impact on supporting the normal functioning of the body. We will analyze where they are found, what benefits they have and how to properly apply cosmetics based on them.

In cosmetics

At the heart of corrective home care formulas, retinoids are responsible for accelerated regeneration of epidermal cells, improve skin tone, texture and relief, inhibit the breakdown of natural collagen after the age of 25, help fight premature wrinkles and dryness, increase skin turgor, brighten age spots fight against photoaging.

Also, due to its keratolic properties, retinol is used as the basis for care for oily problematic skin types prone to compaction and acne. The component stabilizes the work of the sebaceous glands, reduces enlarged pores, controls sebum regulation and prevents inflammation.

In cosmetology

Aesthetic procedures based on retinoids are very popular. Many of them are aimed at rejuvenation and activate cellular renewal. For example, retinol peels correct visible age-related skin changes and the effects of excessive insolation (photoaging): loss of skin firmness and elasticity, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, dull color and uneven skin texture. Such peelings are carried out in the cold season (autumn-winter), during a period of reduced solar activity. Retinol is also used in therapy for the treatment of acne, acne, post-acne (evens out scars and stagnant spots), reduces pores and controls sebum production. Masks with retinol are recommended to be done 1-2 times a week.

In pharmaceuticals

In pharmacology, the most common form is considered to be a retinol solution. The product is responsible for maintaining the normal condition of the skin, mucous membranes, plays an important role in mineral metabolism, accelerates cell division processes. It also takes part in the redox processes of the body, promotes the synthesis of the necessary proteins and lipids.

Benefits of retinol for skin

We finalize the beneficial properties of retinol for facial skin:

• exfoliates the horny layer of the skin
• softens
• renews epidermal cells
• brightens, whitens
• corrects even deep wrinkles
• reduces sebum production
• tightens pores
• fights acne
• increases skin turgor
• rejuvenates
• improves microcirculation
• restores radiance and freshness to the skin

Indications for the use of cosmetic products with retinol

For what skin needs is it recommended to use retinol-based cosmetics:

• The manifestation of obvious signs of photoaging: pigmentation, dryness, peeling, creases of dehydration.
• Manifestation of the first age-related changes: mimic wrinkles, reduction in the synthesis of collagen and elastin, decrease in skin turgor and the rate of renewal of epidermal cells.
• The manifestation of imperfections against the background of increased oily skin: greasy shine of the face, acne (black dots, acne), enlarged pores, thickening of the epidermis.

Safety measures

• Due to their intense micro-exfoliating and renewing properties, dermatologists recommend using retinol-based products in combination with high SPF sunscreens to prevent pigmentation. This is especially true after seasonal retinol peels in the salon. Remember that under the influence of UV rays, the activity of retinol decreases, and the skin becomes more sensitive to ultraviolet radiation.
• If you have very sensitive allergic skin, then using products with vitamin A is not recommended at all – the epidermis can react with irritation, redness, dryness and itching.
• Incorrectly selected dosage of the component can lead to an allergic reaction: redness, swelling, severe peeling of the skin. It is better to select the dosage of vitamin A in the basis of cosmetic formulas in consultation with a dermatologist or use products with its minimum and safe content. The concentration of retinol in home care products is 0,1%. In professional medicinal preparations for aesthetic procedures -; from 0,4% to 1%.
• If skin discomfort occurs at the beginning of the use of the product with retinol, shorten the intervals of its use to gradually get used to the skin component.
• There are contraindications: pregnancy, damage to the skin, liver disease, individual intolerance to the component.

Features of the use of cosmetics with retinol for different skin types

Let’s look at how to use vitamin A in cosmetics for different skin types:

• For oily and problematic Opt for lightweight, non-comedogenic textures that prevent clogging of pores, such as fluids, gels, or serums. Oily skin will benefit from a higher concentration of retinol, such as 0,5%. Do not forget about moisturizing the skin and protecting it from dehydration.
• For normal mature For mature skin aged 25+, incorporate lightweight retinol products into your beauty routine, such as Redermic Retinol Intensive Anti-Aging Treatment with a non-greasy fluid texture. When using the product during the daytime, do not forget about sun protection. Anthelios Shaka lightweight non-comedogenic sunscreen fluid with a maximum protection of SPF 50+ is suitable.
• For dry Due to the ability of retinol to soften the skin and eliminate peeling, creams based on it are suitable for dry skin care. Choose dense, nourishing textures. Also, products with vitamin A in minimal concentrations are suitable for the care of thin, dry skin of the eyelids, for example, the concentrated anti-age care for the area around the eyes Redermic R Yeux.
• For sensitive Use creams with a minimum content of vitamin A derivatives with caution, look for additional soothing ingredients in the composition, for example, niacinamide, panthenol, aloe vera.
• For combined Choose products with retinol acetate for the face at a low concentration. Combination skin with oily T-zone, enlarged pores and oily shine and dry U-zone requires careful use of such products. If redness or irritation occurs, discontinue use.

Review of cosmetics La Roche-Posay with retinol

Redermic Retinol Anti-Aging Intense Concentrated Fluid Care

With a formula based on retinol, hepes, neurosensin, it accelerates the renewal of skin cells, evens out the tone, texture and relief of the skin, fights the signs of aging and photoaging. Suitable for use twice a day: morning and evening.

Consumer feedback:

Maria: Visible results appeared after a month. I have combination skin with age-related changes that needs proper care. This cream has been excellent. The skin has a more even tone and relief, the pores look cleaner. Small wrinkles are smoothed out. The cream has an excellent light texture, the cream reminds me of a fluid, it is quickly absorbed and does not leave a sticky film. The cream did not cause allergies and dry skin. I really liked this cream, I definitely recommend it!

Natalia: A favorite among face creams with retinol! Vitamins are the most obvious cosmetic ingredient in my opinion, and pure facial retinol is a form of vitamin A that promotes skin renewal and reduced pigmentation. All beauticians sing an “ode” to him, and for good reason. Wrinkles and age spots become less noticeable, the complexion becomes smoother and fresher. In the autumn-winter period, this is the best facial skin care.

Redermic R Yeux Intensive Anti-Aging Eye Treatment

With firming, soothing, barrier-boosting La Roche-Posay thermal water and retinol to reduce wrinkles (crow’s feet) and dark circles under the eyes. Suitable for sensitive skin and contact lens wearers.

Consumer feedback:

Olga: Good cream. I really liked it and fit! Light texture, quickly absorbed, use only at night with retinol for the face! I use two weeks. The skin under the eyes has evened out! One of the best face creams.

Lisa: Favorite product! I have very sensitive skin prone to allergies. After trying many luxury brands and seeing no effect, my beautician insisted that I switch to La Roche-Posay pharmacy brand and especially Retinol cream! The result exceeded expectations. The cream lay down evenly, without redness and itching, as usual! And most importantly, the effect! Tightened skin. I don’t have deep wrinkles, but mimic ones have ceased to be so pronounced.

Frequently asked Questions:

Dermatologist Alexander Prokofiev, La Roche-Posay brand expert, answers questions.

Is retinol allowed in cosmetics during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Cosmetics with retinol are contraindicated for pregnant and lactating women. In high concentrations, the component can be toxic and accumulate in the body and can adversely affect the formation of the embryo, so it is recommended to plan a pregnancy no earlier than six months after the end of the course of care.

Retinol in cosmetics: how is it indicated?

At the heart of cosmetic formulas, derivatives of vitamin A appear as Differin (adapelene), Retin-A, Renova (tretinoin), Retinoic acid (retinoic acid), Retinol (retinol), Retinyl linoleate (retinol linoleate), Retinyl palmitate (retinol palmitate).

What to do if irritation from a retinol cream for the skin of the face has begun?

If you experience allergic reactions, discomfort, or irritation while using cosmetics with retinol, stop using it and, if necessary, consult a dermatologist.