The latest way to look younger
I have just turned 30.
Quite fittingly, I processed this chasm between youth and fullblown adulthood at the launch of an anti-aging line. I flew to New York to meet Ole Henriksen, celebrity glow guru (Katy Perry, Ellen DeGeneres and Naomi Campbell are among his disciples) and founder of a hugely successful eponymous range.
The dapper Dane didn’t know it yet, but I was on a mission to squeeze every last drop of youthpreserving wisdom out of him. Then I zeroed in on the framed hashtag for the event: #ByeRetinol. Goodbye to retinol, the gold standard of anti-aging ingredients?
According to Henriksen, it’s time we bid the famed ingredient farewell. As he put it, retinol and its vitamin A-derivative friends are indisputably effective, but they’re also harsh, irritating, sun-sensitizing, expensive and off-limits during pregnancy. Henriksen says he’s got a gentle, natural sub that’s just as good: bakuchiol.
What is bakuchiol?
“Bakuchiol is from India. It’s all natural, vegan and comes from the babchi herb, which is used in Ayurvedic medicine. What makes it magical is that it addresses every major concern associated with aging. It repairs skin without irritating or sensitizing it, so there’s no acclimation
needed. It builds new collagen, evens out hyperpigmentation, makes pores less visible, reduces the look of wrinkles and smooths, firms and tightens skin. It’s also got this beautiful natural violet colour that gives a pearly glow.”
How is bakuchiol different from retinol?
“Retinol is a harsh chemical experience. It doesn’t smell good, and your skin gets red and irritated. These products deliver those amazing results, but it’s all about the sensorial experience, the beautiful smell, the amazing texture, the pearlescent finish. It’s a spa in a jar. We like to teach people to take a deep breath and really indulge in the ritual.”
How do you recommend using the products?
“Skin care is giving back to the biggest organ of your body and the face that everyone sees. It’s about maintaining extraordinary texture, suppleness and great elasticity over a lifetime. But it’s also then a moment to massage your face, close your eyes and feel the energy of your hands on your skin.
“So, first, massage the serum into your skin and let it absorb for two minutes. You can bring it all the way up to the eyes. It’s good for all age brackets and all skin types, even sensitive skin because it’s calming, soothing and non-aggressive. Then you take the Sleeping Crème and massage it on top so they work synergistically.”
What’s your philosophy on aging?
“I think aging is a gift. Be grateful that you’re able to be a part of this amazing world. You get older, but you also get wiser.
“When you stay fit and healthy and always embrace the new and maintain an adventurous spirit, then you can feel young forever. And take good care of your skin, of course — that’s a given. And get facials!”
Travel and accommodations for Katherine Lalancette were provided by Ole Henriksen. Henriksen did not review or approve this story.