The Return of Retinol

Chances are you’ve heard of Retinol before. Since its discovery in the 70s, retinol has made a name for itself as a highly effective skincare ingredient that targets signs of ageing and uneven skin textures. If you haven’t used this hero-product, it could be time to make room for it in your bathroom cabinet. Retinol is known for its potency but unless formulated properly however, retinol can degrade quickly and lose its ability to benefit skin. For the most stable, potent form of retinol, we’ve developed Pure Retinol – with technology that allows it to retain its potency. To find out what retinol is, how to use it, and the common myths about this skincare wonder, read our guide below.

The Story Behind Retinol

In order for you to understand what retinol is and why it’s so good for skin care routines, it’s worth understanding where this skincare ingredient came from. Scientists first discovered Vitamin A back in the 70s, noting its skin benefits. They linked dry, irritated skin to a lack of Vitamin A, and used Vitamin-A derived molecules to help tackle a variety of skin problems like acne and skin elasticity. In addition to this, retinol also helped to minimise the appearance of wrinkles and thinning skin, helping it to become an anti-ageing go-to. 

Retinol's Modern Update

Retinol is now the number 1 dermatologist recommended ingredient for anti-ageing. What makes it so popular among dermatologists is how effectively retinol simultaneously combats visible signs of ageing whilst stimulating cell renewal in the deeper layers of the epidermis to reduce wrinkles and improve firmness.

Retinol simultaneously exfoliates the epidermis (your upper layer of skin) to give you a refines complexion and even skin tone while helping to stimulate collagen production in the deeper layers to improve firmness.

Today, the retinol molecule is presented in a dose that is more gentle on all skin types including sensitive skin, and is a must-have for antiaging skincare routines. The addition of other active ingredients and slow-release formulas allow your skin adequate time to adjust—making it suitable for all skin types!

Where retinol fits in your skincare routine

Our favourite skincare routines are those that require minimal effort—we’re sure you agree! If you’re wondering, “Can I use retinol every night?” – the answer is yes (though we recommend you introduce this powerhouse product gradually over time to allow your skin to adjust). 

Always use retinol at night on cleansed, dry skin  – our Pure Retinol Night Serum is enriched with nourishing ingredients that soothe skin to reduce the risk of irritation. Lock in your night serum with a night cream. Our Revitalift Laser Night Cream fights the signs of ageing overnight, allowing you to wake up with visibly youthful, firmer and more radiant looking skin.

In the morning, cleanse skin with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser. Apply an invigorating serum like the Revitalift Filler Hyaluronic Acid 1.5% HA Serum, which uses hyaluronic acid to hold in moisture. 

Do you put a serum on before or after moisturiser? Definitely before! Use a day cream like the Revitalift Laser X3 SPF15 Day Cream to lock in the potent benefits of your morning serum. This day cream also has UV protection with broad-spectrum filters, providing you with sun protection. Retinol boosts cell renewal, which can also leave your skin more sensitive to the sun  – so make sure to use sunscreen after your night retinol routine.

Retinol Fact and Fiction

We’re going to tackle a few retinol myths and help you sort out what’s fact…and what’s fiction!

RETINOL IS USED BY DERMATOLOGISTS.

True: Dermatologists first used Retinoic Acid (the acid version of Vitamin A) to treat acne. After noticing how smooth and younger the skin looked, retinol became beauty history. Numerous scientific studies later, dermatologists now also prescribe retinol to combat signs of ageing.

RETINOL IS STABLE.

False: Retinol is a highly unstable molecule, easily affected by light, oxygen and heat. Creams containing retinol have to be carefully formulated, with packaging that helps to protect from light exposure.

RETINOL ONLY WORKS ON THE SKIN’S SURFACE.

False: Retinol works in both the upper and lower layers of the skin. Cell renewal, and collagen production are stimulated. Retinol also has a positive impact on melanocytes—the cells that cause pigmentation. 

RETINOL IS A VITAMIN.

True: Retinol, or Vitamin A, is naturally found in tuna, liver, butter, eggs and dairy products. Its precursor molecule, Pro-Vitamin A, is found in vegetables and fruits like carrots, spinach and apricots. This vitamin plays an important role in keeping our skin, eyes and bones healthy. Pro-Vitamin A also helps to hydrate skin.

Now that you know what happens when you start using retinol, it’s time to add some Revitalift products to your skin care routine! For further helpful articles, check out our comprehensive guide to serums.