Did you know today is National Retinol Day? Given the long list of benefits, it’s not surprising to find one of vitamin A’s many forms as the star ingredient in so many skin care products on the market today. But it’s important to know which type will work best for your skin concerns. I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to educate you on what retinol is and why you may want to consider using it!
What is retinol?
Retinol is a Vitamin A derivative that aids in skin renewal and helps to reduce indications of aging such as lines and wrinkles, sagging skin, and uneven tone and texture. It’s also one of the most thoroughly researched substances. Over the years, retinol has become one of the most sought-after ingredients in anti-aging skin care products, thanks to its unmatched efficiency in addressing the most common signs of aging. Although less potent than prescription retinoids, retinol is known to accelerate cell turnover, boost collagen production and smooth and even out skin tone.
History of retinol
According to NationalToday.com, Retinol was found in 1909, isolated in 1931, and synthesized for the first time in 1947.
Frederick Gowland Hopkins got a Nobel Prize in 1929 for demonstrating in 1912 that undiscovered accessory elements contained in milk are essential to rat growth. In 1913, a fat-soluble nutrient was discovered in butterfat and cod liver oil by a biochemist, Elmer Verner McCollum, and his colleague, Marguerite Davis, at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. In 1918, the ‘accessory components’ were dubbed ‘fat-soluble A,’ then ‘vitamin A’ in 1920. Paul Karrer, a Swiss chemist, first described the molecular structure of vitamin A in 1932.
Retinol got isolated for the first time in the 1930s; however, sunshine and oxygen degraded it. As a result of its unstable nature, retinoic acid, which was more stable, was developed. In 1943, the first research on retinoic acid reported it as a treatment for acne. Towards the end of the 1950s, retinoic acid became used as a dermatological treatment for individuals with breakouts.
The most commonly used retinoid, tretinoin, was originally a topical medication for skin disorders in 1958; its usage in anti-aging treatments began in the 1980s. In 1983, a published study claimed that retinoic acid might treat skin aging. By the 1990s, retinoic acid gained a terrible name for causing skin irritation and sensitivity; this made the market switch to retinol, which was better for the skin.
MY PICK: LUMIERE DE VIE RETINOL CREME
Retinol are often known as being a bit harsh on some skin types, especially when first starting to use them. The Lumiere de Vie Retinol Creme uses an encapsulated retinol, a multi-functional delivery system which provides a sustained release for retinol. The release of retinol is very slow which enables its use at effective levels to help improve stability and reduce irritation.
Experience the revitalizing benefits of Retinol with our Lumiere de Vie Retinol Crème. Its powerful ingredients target fine lines and wrinkles, improve elasticity and brighten skin for a healthy-looking, glowing complexion.
BENEFITS
- Brightens complexion
- Improves elasticity
- Supports a healthy-looking complexion
- Moisturizes & soothes skin
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Active Ingredients
Retinol
Retinol is the primary naturally occurring form of vitamin A which is a derivative that helps the acceleration of skin’s natural cell turnover. The accelerated cell turnover process helps to liven the skins superficial layer and slough away dead skin cells. It is one of the best known and most effective ingredients for skin care. Retinol has been reported to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, help the skin feel firmer and more supple, and improve the skin’s overall appearance.
Poly-Pore 120 RE (encapsulated Retinol)
Poly-Pore 120 RE is a multi-functional delivery system which provides a sustained release for retinol. The release of retinol is very slow which enables its use at effective levels to help improve stability and reduce irritation.
Ectoin
Ectoin is an organic molecule that occurs widely in nature and has strong water-binding properties as well as antioxidant properties. These properties help ectoin to moisturize and soothe the skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Glyceryl Glucoside
Glyceryl Glucoside is a small sugar derivative found in certain plants and blue-green algae. It has strong water-binding properties that help keep the skin moisturized.
Acetyl Glucosamine
Acetyl glucosamine is a multi-functional skin care ingredient. In addition to promoting healthy skin hydration, it has been reported to reduce the appearance of flakiness. These benefits help the skin look smoother and promote a younger-looking complexion.
FAQs
How do I use Lumière de Vie® Retinol Crème?
- Step 1: After cleansing, apply eye cream to help protect the delicate skin around your eyes.
- Step 2: It is important to apply Retinol to completely dry skin. This step will help to eliminate irritation.
- Step 3: Take a pea-size amount of your retinol and, starting at your chin, apply with your fingertips in upward and outward motions.
- Step 4: Finish with your moisturizer.
- Step 5: Remember to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen the morning after.
How often do I use Lumière de Vie Retinol Crème?
Retinol is an amazingly potent ingredient, so we recommend giving your skin time to adapt.
For new Retinol users: Use two days on, two days off. Work your way up to daily while following Steps 1-5.
For advanced Retinol users: Use daily following steps 1-5.
Because of the potency of Retinol, are there any special steps or precautions I follow when using the product?
Yes! Retinol may increase photosensitivity; therefore, we always recommend using a high-protection, broad-spectrum sunscreen. Also, due to the accelerated cell turnover, it is recommended to stop using retinol several days prior to any waxing appointments as the superficial layer of the skin will be revealing newer skin cells.
Can I use this product if I’m going to be in the sun?
Yes, just make sure to wear a broad-spectrum SPF before going out into the sun.
Is this product safe for people with sensitive skin?
Retinols are a more intensive anti-aging treatment, so we would recommend trying on a small area before using the full treatment. Also, we do not recommend if you have experienced irritation from retinol products in the past. This product does take time for your skin to adapt and you may experience some amount of irritation, mild redness, a warm tingling when you first start using the product. If irritation persists, please consult a physician.
What percentage of retinol does this product have?
Due to the intensity of retinol, it’s best to focus on the combination of ingredients rather than the percentage of retinol. The higher the retinol percentage, the higher chance the product has to cause overly aggressive effects on skin. This product has been formulated to be just the perfect amount to achieve the benefits you want.
What makes the Lumière de Vie Retinol Crème different from others on the market?
The Lumière de Vie Retinol Crème uses a delivery system known as Poly-Pore 120 RE. This system is designed to provide sustained release of retinol in order to help reduce irritation.
Is Lumière de Vie Retinol Crème tested on animals?
Lumière de Vie does not conduct or commission animal testing of any finished product.
