RETINOL RULES
THIS MAGIC INGREDIENT DESERVES A PLACE IN YOUR BEAUTY REGIME
When it comes to anti-ageing ingredients, retinol for skin runs laps around its competition. This powerhouse is a pure derivative of Vitamin A, renowned for its impressive abilities to treat acne, fade dark spots, brighten dull skin and prevent wrinkles with unprecedented efficacy.
To paraphrase Samantha Jones in Sex and the City 2, retinol basically tricks your body into thinking it’s younger. However, retinol serum’s reputation tends to precede it, as it’s as widely known for the reactions it tends to trigger as it is for its tremendous results.
Lucky for us, we spoke to Dr Joseph Hkeik of All Saint Clinic in Sydney to find out how to seamlessly add retinol to your routine...
WHAT IS RETINOL?
“My favourite molecule,” laughs Dr Hkeik. Fair. Favouritism aside? “Retinol is a powerful molecule that helps cells to turn over quickly,” he explains. By causing skin cells to turn over and die, retinol for skin is able to boost collagen production, keep pores clear and ensure skin is constantly refreshed and radiant.
WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO EASE INTO RETINOL FOR SKIN?
What is the best retinol serum or retinol cream? And what percentage of retinol is best? Of course, it will all depend on your skin. Dr Hkeik says to opt for a traditional complexion courtship and take the introduction slow.
“We test the water to see what it’s like,” says Dr Hkeik. “Initially, we say, ‘We would like you to use the product once a week.’ From there, you can gradually increase the application to twice a week and then, eventually, once your skin is completely adjusted, up your use to every day.”
ARE THERE PRECAUTIONS THAT SHOULD BE TAKEN WITH RETINOL TOPICALS?
“Seeing as it’s a powerful molecule, [retinol] is not good when you’re pregnant or breastfeeding,” Dr Hkeik explains.
And for the love of clear skin, please only apply your retinol products at night.
“It makes your skin photosensitive, so you can’t wear it in the daytime,” confirms Dr Hkeik. Got it? After dark only.