Why you should start using retinol early
Your 20s is often synonymous with flawless, plump skin, past the acne period in your teens, and yet to hit the time where you start getting serious about ageing.
But, while you should be focusing on prevention during this time (hello daily SPF), it is certainly never too early to start getting acquainted with vitamin A, commonly known as retinol.
What is vitamin A?
Vitamin A, or retinol, has lasted through years of trending ingredients and skincare fads, to come out on top as one of the most effective anti-ageing ingredients in modern skincare.
Vitamin A is a powerful antioxidant and essential vitamin that plays a critical role in maintaining health vision, neurological function, healthy skin and more. This wonder ingredient is involved in reducing inflammation through fighting free radical damage, and is proven to slow ageing.
When added topically, retinol helps to repair damaged skin and increase cellular turnover while supporting collagen production. It won't be long before those fine lines and wrinkles are gone.
When it the right time to start using retinol?
The earlier the better! As you progress through your 20s, your skin starts to dull, and this is often the time we start noticing the first signs of ageing in the skin. More regular exposure to the sun as we age often results in added skin discolouration as well.
Retinol helps to address breakout-prone skin as well as preventing ageing, sun damage and brown spots in its tracks, making it a beautiful one to add into your regular skincare routine.
Retinol in your skincare products has the ability to:
- Support collagen synthesis while preventing moisture loss from the epidermal layer of the skin
- Improve skin’s texture and tone without irritation
- Hydrate, brighten and reduce redness
- Protect skin from oxidative stress
How is retinol best used?
- As this vitamin A derivative is highly potent and powerful when applied to the skin, it is best used in the evening before bed to help repair cells and improve skin clarity while you sleep. The concentrated ingredient may result in tightness, peeling or shedding when too much is applied! We recommend starting out with our Ageless Retinol Overnight Masque as this is more gentle to the skin and will build up your tolerance to the ingredient.
- Retinol and SPF must go hand in hand! While using retinol in your skincare routine, it must be followed up with daily SPF, as retinol increases sensitivity to UV light and your skin will be more susceptible to the danger of the sun. Follow your evening retinol application with our Image Skincare Prevention + Broad Spectrum Moisturisers before you head out for the day.
What is your favourite retinol product in the IMAGE range?
