We’re shining a light on this powerhouse ingredient, so you can find out!
There’s no doubt about it. Retinol is a powerful product, often shrouded in an air of mystique. Whilst this often-hailed miracle ingredient has been clinically proven to reduce wrinkles, not everyone’s convinced. Could such a potent ingredient be too much for your skin to handle? Or will it unleash a more youthful complexion? We tackle the myths about Retinol and present the real facts about the product that’s on the rise.
What is Retinol?
Retinol is a form of Vitamin A that’s suitable for use on the skin. It comes from a group of Vitamin A derivatives named Retinoids.
Low strength Retinol can be purchased over the counter, without a prescription. Whereas, another form, Tretinoin is more powerful and is prescribed by a medical professional.
How Does Retinol Work?
Retinol is applied topically. It speeds up cellular turnover, which keeps pores clear and therefore reduces the likelihood of blemishes or acne. It also increases collagen production in the dermis. Like a true skin saviour, skin elasticity is improved, smoothing out fine lines, wrinkles, and crow’s feet. Texture is smoother, more even in tone, and skin appears brighter and more youthful.
Why Use Retinol?
There’s so much talk about Retinol because it can tackle a multitude of skin concerns. It can be used to target:
- Acne
- Pigmentation
- Sun Damage
- Ageing
Obagi has conducted many clinical studies into the benefits of retinol. A picture paints a thousand words – you can view before and after photos that clearly demonstrate a visible improvement, evidencing a clearer complexion and diminished fine lines and wrinkles, especially when used alongside the Obagi Nu-Derm Fx System.
Can Retinol Damage Your Skin?
It’s the million-dollar question. But contrary to some of the scaremongering touted on the internet, Retinol is completely safe when used correctly, your skin needs to build up tolerance to achieve the best results, so although it might be tempting to go for the highest strength, start skin and work your way up to the higher retinol concentration products.
Since it’s a powerful product, be in no doubt that it can take your skin a while to adjust. This is where the horror stories tend to evolve from. In reality, the side-effects may be irritated skin, redness or dryness. So, you might experience short term irritations whilst your skin gets used to it, but it won’t cause damage.
You’re also more likely to experience some minor irritation if you’ve not used Retinol before. Additionally, if you use too much, too quickly, it’s more likely to result in unwanted side-effects. As skin gets more used to Retinol, these normally disappear within a matter of a few weeks.
There are some cautions. If you suffer from Rosacea or have very sensitive or irritated skin, then this may not be the right ingredient for you. Retinol can make your skin more sun-sensitive so always use a factor 30 SPF on your skin when using Retinol and limit time in the sun. OBAGI360 Hydrafactor® SPF30 is the perfect companion to our Retinol products, ensuring full UVA and UVB protection for your skin. As always, check with your GP or dermatologist if you have concerns.
How to Use the OBAGI Retinol Range?
OBAGI offers Retinols in varying strengths. So, whether it’s your first experience with Retinol or you’ve already used it, we’ve got a solution for you.
Our advice is always to begin with a low strength Retinol and gradually build-up, allowing your skin time to get used to it.
If you’re new to Retinol, you might like to try OBAGI360® RETINOL 0.5. It’s gentle, and improves complexion, smoothing and brightening the skin clinical. Obagi takes skin irritation seriously and has carried out skin trials to assess irritation after 3 weeks to ensure that this product is minimally irritating.
Alternatively, try SUZANOBAGIMD Retivance® Skin Rejuvenating Complex. This Retinol Serum uses Retinaldehyde, a gentler Vitamin A precursor of Retinoic Acid. Retinaldehyde is tolerated well by different skin types making it suitable for sensitive or delicate skin. If your skin didn’t tolerate a Retinol product so well, try this alternative. The scientifically advanced formula is the next generation in skincare and uses a three-step process. It begins by removing impurities so that a clear base is left, enabling other products to work more effectively. The Retivance complex also actively protects the skin from harmful UV rays, minimising signs of ageing. If that’s not enough, it’s powerful combination of ingredients also renews and rejuvenates the complexion, leaving skin looking brighter and more youthful.
For optimal results, use your OBAGI Retinol® product after cleansing with OBAGI360® Exfoliating Cleanser. Pat your face dry. Then use a pea sized amount of either OBAGI Retinol 0.5®, or SUZANOBAGIMD® Retivance Skin Rejuvenating Complex. Very gently smooth it onto your skin until it’s been fully absorbed. A good moisturiser afterwards should be used to hydrate and protect the skin’s barrier. Try one of our ultra-nourishing moisturisers, Obagi Hydrate®, Obagi Hydrate Luxe® or if you like to include a moisturising serum too, Obagi Daily Hydro-Drops™. These products are clinically proven to deliver immediate results and improve skin moisture retention over 8 hours.