What are they and what do they do?
I have always been confused about retinoids and put them in the too hard basket.
When I tried the prescription Retinol cream I found it altogether too strong. I persevered when told it will become friendlier, but it never did. Retinoid creams are now readily available in most skincare lines but with less potency and so less aggressive on the skin. They may not have the fast and furious results of the higher intensity cream but those who are sensitive, we can at least try them without peeling and acute redness.
Reading up and this is what we have learned,
Retinoids are a class of chemical compounds, or in more beauty industry-friendly words, they are a derivative of Vitamin A that is considered a product essential in our skincare routine.
But what do Retinoids do?
They not only brighten and strengthen the skin but also this revolutionary ingredient plumps (in the best way), smoothes out fine lines and corrects any skin pigmentation.
Retinoids can stimulate collagen AND increase cell turnover making it a must-have in your beauty cabinet.
Despite being one of the skincare favourites, Retinoids increase sunlight sensitivity so attention must be paid in the summer months.
The application is best when added to our evening routine. Apply the Retinoid cream on the face sparingly and follow with serum and moisturiser. It’s also recommended to start slowly and build up the usage – a few nights a week is a good place to start.
The Best Of The Retinoids
Starting with The Ordinary’s Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion. Don’t be phased by its lower price as this product is a beauty editor favourite.
Looking for an even more luxurious treat to the skin? Reach for Votary’s Intense Night Oil with Rosehip and Retinoid. Made with a beautiful natural plant oil base it’s guaranteed to leave our skin plumped and smoothed.
If your skin is a little on the sensitive side like VA’s the Ren Skincare’s Bio Retinoid Anti-Wrinkle Concentrate Oil is the one. This can be used in the morning and in the evening thanks to its gentle solution.
The World of Retinoids
ren bio concentrate oil || votary intense rosehip oil || the ordinary advanced granactive
