Retinol is a powerful firming agent that smooths skin texture, reduces signs of aging, and effectively combats pigmentation spots and blemishes. However, it should be used with caution as high doses can cause redness and skin irritation. Discover in this article all the benefits it can provide when applied topically.
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The benefits of retinol for the skin.
Summary
- What is retinol?
- Benefit #1: A regenerative effect on wrinkles
- Benefit #2: Combatting blemishes and excess sebum
- Benefit #3: Diminishing the appearance of brown spots
- Discover our retinol skincare treatments
- Sources
Published November 19, 2021,
updated on June 20, 2024,
by
Maylis, Chemical Engineer
—
7 min read
What is retinol?
Derived from vitamin A, retinol is part of the retinoid family. Discovered in 1931 in mackerel liver oil, retinol was not synthesized until 16 years later. Initially praised for its ability to reduce skin eruptions and acne scars, it also presents itself as a key ingredient in combating signs of aging: loss of firmness, wrinkles and fine lines, and pigmentation spots.
However, this high efficacy comes with a recognized potential for irritation. The retinol can indeed cause redness and skin discomfort in individuals with sensitive or even atopic skin. In response to this, the European regulation has limited its concentration in non-rinse cosmetic products to 0.3%.
As a precaution,theuse of retinol is not recommended for pregnant and/or breastfeeding women. Since retinol is light-sensitive and can increase skin sensitivity when exposed to UV rays, it is preferred to use it in the evening for maximum effectiveness. The following morning, an appropriate sun protection suited to one's phototype should be applied.
Benefit #1: A regenerative effect on wrinkles.
Skin aging is a degenerative process caused by internal biological factors (such as a decrease in collagen and hyaluronic acid levels) and external factors (pollution, UV rays, stress, smoking, etc.). It manifests itself through the appearance of irregularities on the skin's surface, such as wrinkles, pigmentation spots , or even areas of sagging.
Retinol is recognized for its ability toboost the production of collagen and elastinfor smoother and more elastic skin. Moreover, retinol possessesantioxidant properties. It prevents the appearance of aging signs by neutralizing free radicals. As a reminder, these are highly reactive molecules generated by various factors (stress, pollution, smoking...) that degrade the proteins and healthy cells of the skin, accelerating its aging.
Benefit #2: Combatting blemishes and excess sebum.
When applied topically, the retinol is metabolized into retinal and then into retinoic acid, a key compound for taking care of combination to oily skin, whether or not it has imperfections. The keratolytic action of retinol helps to remove dead cells present on the surface of the epidermis, as it stimulates cell renewal. The pores are unclogged and the skin texture is refined, thus preventing the appearance of blackheads and/or comedones. Moreover, thanks to its brightening properties, retinol reduces the marks left by imperfections.
Benefit #3: Diminishing the appearance of brown spots.
The appearance of dark spots is linked to aging of the skin and/or exposure to external aggressions such as pollution and UV rays. As a reminder, hyperpigmentation is defined as a disruption in the pigmentation process: the melanin, pigment responsible for the natural coloration of the skin, is overproduced in certain areas which leads to the appearance of brown, red, or pink spots that can sometimes be unsightly. Retinol regulates melanocytes and reduces the intensity of pigmented spots on the skin surface.
Discover our retinol skincare treatments.
To combat skin aging and prevent skin sagging, the wrinkle & fine lines serum contains 0.3% retinol. It is formulated with 99% natural origin ingredients. It is particularly suitable for mature skin. We do not recommend its use for sensitive and reactive skin.
The neck and décolleté serum is composed of retinol (0.2%) andborage oil, known for its firming properties. This treatment smooths the skin of the neck and décolleté. It can also be used locally on other parts of the body.
Our firming face cream with 0.2% retinol andtsubaki oil is enriched with tightening agents to combat the appearance of wrinkles and make the skin more plump. It stimulates the production of collagen and elastin fibers to prevent signs of skin aging.
The firming toner contains 0.1% retinol and Damask rose extract. It is applied after skin cleansing, to rebalance the skin's pH and delay the appearance of wrinkles. It is composed of 99% natural origin ingredients.
The wrinkle and blemish serum combines the densifying action of retinol (0.3%) with the anti-bacterial action of bakuchiol (1%) to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and correct blemishes. Synthesized by endemic Australian plants, the plant polypeptides it contains are capable of working in synergy with retinol to promote the synthesis of type I collagen. They thus help to reduce the depth of wrinkles and densify the skin. These peptides also contribute to maintaining a thick epidermis, which plays its role as a shield against the external environment.
Sources:
WANG L. H. Simultaneous determination of retinal, retinol, and retinoic acid (all-trans and 13-cis) in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals at electrodeposited metal electrodes. Analytica Chimica Acta (2000).
KAFI & al. Improvement of naturally aged skin with vitamin A (retinol). Archives of Dermatology (2007).
GUAN T. & al. Molecular basis of retinol anti-aging properties in naturally aged human skin in vivo., International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2016).
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