Let's talk about retinol serums!
It’s the word on everyone’s lips – and the serum on their skin. What makes retinol serums so popular?
People rave about retinol because of its seemingly miracle-like qualities in improving skincare issues, especially those related to ageing.
"Retinol" is a form of Vitamin A, which is a fat-soluble vitamin that is super important for skin health. It's found naturally in the body and also comes from sources like animal liver, eggs and dairy products.
In skincare, retinol is used in various forms, including creams, serums and treatments.
Retinol helps improve the skin by attaching to special areas on skin cells called retinoic acid receptors. Once it attaches, retinol changes into retinoic acid, which is the active form of Vitamin A. Retinoic acid affects how genes work in the skin and how cells function. It increases the rate at which skin cells turn over, encourages the production of collagen and helps the skin shed dead cells.
As a result, the skin becomes smoother, firmer and looks younger over time.
Here are a few reasons why retinol is so popular:
- Reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines: Retinol stimulates collagen production, which helps to improve skin elasticity and smooth out wrinkles and fine lines over time.
- Improves skin texture and tone: By increasing cell turnover and boosting the shedding of dead skin cells, retinol can help to refine the skin's texture and even out skin tone, reducing the appearance of roughness, dullness and discolouration.
- Minimises the appearance of pores: Retinol can help to unclog pores and reduce their size, leading to a smoother and more refined complexion.
- Targets acne: Retinol has been shown to be effective in treating acne by reducing inflammation, preventing the formation of new acne lesions and helping to heal existing ones.
- Boosts overall skin health: Beyond its anti-ageing benefits, retinol also helps to improve the overall health and appearance of your skin by boosting hydration. More hydration means a more radiant complexion.
Common ingredients found in retinols
- Retinol: The active ingredient that provides the anti-ageing benefits.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Helps to hydrate and plump up the skin, offsetting potential dryness and irritation caused by retinol.
- Vitamin E: An antioxidant that helps to protect the skin from environmental damage.
- Peptides: These amino acid chains can help support collagen production and improve skin elasticity.
- Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Known for its ability to strengthen the skin barrier and reduce inflammation.
- Botanical Extracts: Some retinol serums may contain botanical extracts such as green tea, chamomile, or aloe vera, which can have soothing and antioxidant properties.
Are retinol serums safe?
While retinol can be incredibly effective, it's essential to use it correctly and mix it into a skincare routine that includes sun protection during the day. Start with a lower concentration and gradually increase strength and frequency to minimise the risk of irritation, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Retinol is suitable for various skin types, but it may not be the magic skin helper for everyone. It's generally recommended for those concerned with ageing, including fine lines, wrinkles and uneven skin tone. If you’re prone to skin irritations, redness and flakiness, always do a small patch test first and get advice from a pharmacist.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, or using any medication.