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Retinol 101: Everything You Need to Know

What does retinol do?

Often called the “gold standard” among the beauty industry, retinol is a highly acclaimed skincare ingredient but is sometimes surrounded by a great deal of confusion. Do you know what retinol is exactly? What can this ingredient do for your skin? How can you incorporate it into your daily routine?

Read our expert guide and uncover the incredible retinol benefits for skin.

WHAT IS RETINOL?

First things first! Retinol is a vitamin A derivative; however, retinoids are products with vitamin A. Once it is absorbed into the skin, it is converted into the active form known as retinoic acid, which helps transform the appearance of your skin. The result? Skin that looks and feels smoother, healthier, and more vibrant.

RETINOL VS RETINOIDS

Another common term for retinol used in prescription formulas is known as retinoids. You might wonder, what’s the difference between retinol and retinoids? Let us tell you. Retinol is a vitamin A derivative; however, retinoids are products with vitamin A. This means that retinoids are more potent–but less safe–therefore, they need to be prescribed by a dermatologist.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF RETINOL?

Now the question we all want the answer to… is retinol really worth the hype? Numerous studies¹ about retinol reveal why this powerhouse ingredient provides impressive anti-aging properties. Retinol has the ability to help renew the surface of your skin; therefore, it helps minimize the look of lines, wrinkles, and dark spots while brightening dull skin and providing anti-aging benefits for the eyes. For those asking if retinol is good for acne, this potent ingredient can help reduce the appearance of clogged pores, blemishes, and blackheads.

IS RETINOL SUITABLE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES?

Retinol has a reputation for being harsh on the skin resulting in dryness, redness, and peeling. That’s why it is usually not recommended for everyday use on sensitive and/or dry skin. However, its suitability will depend on concentration levels and other ingredients within the formula. Today, most retinol products include slow-release encapsulation delivery systems to minimize and prevent irritation (commonly caused by the increase in cell turnover stimulated from retinol). Meaning, with the right research and product pairing, you can most likely find a retinol-based formula to complement your skin type.

PRO TIP:
Consult with your dermatologist or beauty technician to find the perfect retinol product for you.

HOW TO USE RETINOL?

Retinol is a photosensitizing ingredient, which means it can cause a skin reaction when the treated area is exposed to the sun. So, if you use retinol products, you must always wear sunscreen. The benefit when using retinol products from Natura Bissé is that each formula is designed to be applied at night.

CAN YOU USE VITAMIN C WITH RETINOL?

This is one of most common questions that our experts are frequently asked. Several studies show the combination of vitamin C and retinol makes for a very effective skincare cocktail. Since these two ingredients tend to have different pH, it is recommended to use the products separately. Natura Bissé suggests using vitamin C formulas during the day and retinol products at night to maximize the benefits of both ingredients while keeping your skin in balance.

PRO TIP:
Conduct a sensitivity test first when combining ingredients. Apply the products over a small portion of your skin to monitor results (e.g., behind the ears or the inner forearm are ideal locations).

THE BEST NATURA BISSÉ RETINOL PRODUCTS

Try the proven efficiancy of retinol with our recommended Natura Bissé products. Feel the power of this impressive ingredient through concentrated formulas such our eye contour serum Diamond Life Infusion Retinol Eye Serum. See how it helps reduce the look of expression lines and wrinkles, especially around the eye area where they appear first.