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  • Writer's pictureHelena Sergeant

ANTI-AGEING : Retinol

Products that actually reverse the signs of ageing - FACT!





Retinol can reverse the signs of ageing


"Shut the front door", I hear you say! But believe me.. it is fact, scientifically proven that Retinol can actually reverse the signs of ageing! Yay!

So, sit back, relax and learn how this wonder product works and how to use it on yourself and then rush out ... er no.. go online and buy some for yourself.




Did you know..


..that skin starts to age in our twenties? Our cell defenses start to weaken and our natural ability to fight off skin damage declines. Cell renewal and turnover rates also naturally start to slow, diminishing skin radiance.

Collagen, which keeps our skin firm and elastin which keeps bounce back in our skin starts to deplete in our thirties.




How does Retinol work?


Retinol also known as Vitamin A, accelerates skin cell turnover rate. It exfoliates as well as helps to eliminate dark spots, repair sun damage and smooth out fine lines while keeping new wrinkles from appearing. This increase in skin cell turnover helps our pores stay clear, which is why retinol is also a great acne-fighting ingredient. It can even help with acne scarring.


Dermatologist Dr. Nancy Samolitis explains "The molecule penetrates into the cells and stimulates cell turnover. When skin cell turnover is maximised, the cells are able to function at their optimal capacity and repair DNA damage caused by the sun and environmental stressors. This repair and cell normalisation leads to improvement in signs of aging such as dullness, discoloration, fine lines and uneven texture."


Retinol also increases collagen production, which in turn helps our skin look plump and young. This decreases wrinkles by thickening the skin from the inside out.




What you need to know before you start using Retinol


Dermatologist Dr Whitney Bowe explains "Retinol can be very irritating if used too frequently or if the formulation is too strong for your skin."


She recommends starting off with a pea-sized amount of a low percentage over-the-counter formula (.01% to 0.03%), and using it two times per week, slowly increasing the usage to give the skin a chance to acclimate.


Retinol should not be used if you are pregnant or breast feeding.


When you start working Retinol into your skincare routine it is imperative that you use an SPF cream (you should be using one daily anyway). Any form of UV rays (through summer and winter) are the most contributing factor in ageing our skin. And you will definitely want to keep your fresh, new, plump skin cells protected!



To follow are a few over-the-counter recommended Retinol products. Enjoy!





The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane 30ml £4.20


This water-free solution contains 0.2% pure Retinol, an ingredient that can reduce the appearances of fine lines, of photo damage and of general skin aging.

Apply a small amount to face in the PM as part of your skincare regimen, after water-based serums but before heavier treatments. Do not use with other retinoid treatments. Avoid unprotected solar exposure.


0.2% is a great place to start. Also available in 0.5% & 1%.









Sunday Riley Luna Sleepimg Night Oil 15ml £45.00 / 35ml £85.00


Starring retinol and blue tansy – a powerfully skin-soothing, anti-inflammatory extract that reduces redness and helps to calm signs of skin stress – Sunday Riley’s Luna Sleeping Night Oil corrects and anti-ages; tackling all-too-common issues such as eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, rosacea and acne, while counteracting the ravages wrought by oxidative stress. An incredible night treatment for all skin types – especially dry, dehydrated, confused and mature – think of this as a stint in skin-rehab; it works hard to reverse the day’s damage and neutralise free radicals, so you wake to a beautifully smooth, ‘plumped’ and luminous-looking complexion.







La Roche-Possay Redermic Anti-Wrinkle Retinol Treatment 30ml £24.00 (on offer usually £32.00)


Specifically formulated to combat the visible signs of anti-ageing including wrinkles, uneven skin tone, crows feet, dark spots, forehead and lip lines. Award-winning Redermic R, with 0.3% retinol, has clinically tested anti-wrinkle efficacy. Specifically formulated for sensitive skin.

Please note: Due to active ingredients in this product it is recommended to avoid direct sunlight whilst using this product, we advise to wear product as part of night time regime







Kate Sommerville +Retinol Vitamin C Moisturiser 50ml £77.00


Super Charged Anti-Ageing Moisturizing Cream

Uniquely-formulated with anti-ageing superstars Retinol and Vitamin C, this 3-in-1 rich moisturizing cream firms, brightens and nourishes skin to visibly improve texture, tone, and the look of fine lines and wrinkles. Added plant extracts and antioxidants help soothe skin and neutralize free radicals that can cause premature ageing.








Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream 50ml £70.00


Improves the look of youthful contours and wrinkles while intensely hydrating.

Preventative and corrective retinol for all ages that strengthens skin’s protective barrier.

The science of retinol perfected, for fast results while being gentle on skin.






Sun Protection



Eight Hour® Great 8™ Daily Defense Moisturiser SPF 35 £36.00

1 step, 8 great benefits. More than a moisturiser, more than an SPF, Great 8™ is your all-in-one protector and perfector for healthy-looking, glowing skin. Addictive, semi-translucent gel formula goes on clear – leaving no white residue. Suitable for all skin types.







Tropic Skincars Great Barrier Sun Lotion 100ml £18.00 / 200ml £28.00


Protect your skin and the planet with our new wave of innovative, certified reef-friendly sunscreen. Boasting a silky, hydrating formula packed with powerful extracts that shield skin from UV rays and free radical damage, this groundbreaking range of broad spectrum, water-resistant sun protection has you covered, whatever your lifestyle. www.tropicskincare.com/suzecresswell






Put on a happy face! x

I'd love to hear about your tried and tested products and your personal results using Retinol. Please comment below and don't forget to subscribe!






Learn about more anti-ageing products in my next blog post. Next up on ANTI-AGEING... Collagen

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