Benefits of Retinol
When it comes to preventing pre-mature ageing and repairing existing damage, most dermatologists agree that daily use of a retinoid or Vitamin A is the key.
What is the importance of vitamin A and retinoids for the skin?
Vitamin A is crucial for normal skin cell development. It prevents collagen breakdown, boosts collagen synthesis, enhances elasticity, improves the skin's water barrier function, has anti-inflammatory properties, and regulates sebum production. Retinoids are the only known ingredient to reverse signs of photoaging, making them an essential element in skincare.
What is photoaging?
Photoaging refers to the premature aging of the skin caused by repeated and prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, primarily from the sun. This process can also be accelerated by exposure to artificial sources of UV light.
Photoaging damages the skin's collagen and elastin fibers, leading to a loss of elasticity, increased dryness, the formation of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation (age spots or sunspots). The severity of photoaging depends on an individual's skin type, the amount of sun exposure, and the use of protective measures like sunscreen and anti-oxidants.
How do retinoids work to reverse photoaging damage?
Retinoids perform a series of actions to counteract the effects of photoaging:
- Encouraging rapid skin cell turnover.
- Compacting the stratum corneum (outer layer of skin).
- Increasing glycosaminoglycans in the epidermis.
- Reducing melanin in the epidermis, leading to more even skin tones and reduced age spots.
With long-term retinoid use, the epidermis becomes smoother and supported by a thicker dermis.
Are all retinols the same?
No, not all retinols are created equal. Only retinoic acid can modulate gene expression and influence cellular processes in both the epidermis and dermis.
There are two ways to achieve this:
1) directly with tretinoin (retinoic acid); or
2) indirectly with retinol (the vitamin A derivative) or retinaldehyde.
What are the benefits of using a Vitamin A derivative?
When retinoic acid is applied indirectly to the skin through the use of vitamin A derivatives like beta-carotene or carotenoids (plant based sources), they can offer the same benefits without the irritation usually associated with tretinoin.
Cacay oil and buriti oil are gold standard luxury oils containing carotenoids that can be converted into retinoic acid when applied to the skin. These oils offer additional benefits due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and nourishing properties, making them valuable additions to a skincare routine. However, it's important to note that the conversion rate of carotenoids to retinoic acid may not be as fast or potent as using retinol or retinaldehyde directly. Consistency over intense strength is key.
Note: Cacay oil and Buriti oil is pregnancy safe - however please consult with your medical practitioner and ensure you wear sunscreen if used during the day.