Collection: retinol

When it comes to reversing the signs of ageing skin, retinol is hands down the industry’s gold standard ingredient of choice. Retinol is a form of Vitamin A that is clinically proven to reverse the signs of skin ageing by reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, smoothing skins texture, evening out the skin tone, and minimising the appearance of pores.

There are a few ingredients that can be used in retinol formulas and the collective name for these Vitamin A derivatives is ‘retinoids’. Retinoids encourage skin cell turnover and renewal and help boost collagen production in the skin. This gives skin a smoother, more even-toned appearance. Skin texture and pore appearance is refined, and skin becomes clear with increased clarity.

Retinol is the most commonly referred to retinoid, but formulas range from relatively gentle over-the-counter products to potent prescription treatments so it can be confusing to know which one to choose for your skin.

Retinoids vary in strength and thus results can vary. As a rule, the more potent the retinoid the more potential for skin irritation.

Retinoic Acid is the strongest form and drives the positive changes we see in the skin; however, this is only available on prescription and is highly irritating. What’s important to note, is the weaker derivatives when applied to the skin, convert to retinoic acid and deliver the same benefits over a longer period of time.

Retinaldehyde (Retinal) is the closest type to Retinoic Acid and is usually formulated in very small amounts as it has a high potential for skin irritation.