Thanks to the development of science and the Internet, we are constantly learning about new substances that will help us make our skin healthy, look beautiful and youthful for as long as possible. We are constantly introducing new products into our skin care routine, which once by their names we would have associated more with a chemist's lab than something we can use on delicate facial skin. Today, however, we know that substances such as retinol and various acids, properly selected and used, will not do us any harm - on the contrary, they are almost indispensable in proper care. What exactly is retinol and with which acids can it be combined, and which combinations are better avoided? We suggest!
What is retinol and what effect does it have?
Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A and its most effective form. It has been known for many years, but has recently become very popular. No wonder - it is a substance whose effectiveness has been described in many studies and scientific papers. It is mainly known for its anti-aging and rejuvenating properties, but it is also used to treat acne. However, these are not the only benefits of retinol: it also helps even out skin tone, adding a natural glow.
Retinol does not forgive mistakes
Retinol, despite its many benefits, requires a proper and very specific routine and proper care. Otherwise, instead of the expected results, we can expect reddened, irritated skin that will peel. So it is worth knowing how to properly introduce and apply retinol to avoid unpleasant surprises. First of all, starting your adventure with retinol, let's reach for products with a low concentration of this substance. To begin with, it is advisable to choose those cosmetics whose retinol concentration is maximum 0.5%. Also, let's not use products with retinol every day, but once a week, then twice a week, to give the skin time to get used to it. During retinol treatment, we must remember to have high sun protection. We reach for creams with SPF 50 every day. As for retinol vs. acids we already use in our routine, it is worth finding out which acids retinol can be used with, and which combinations are better avoided.
Retinol vs acids
Retinol and hyaluronic acid is the perfect combination. Why? Retinol, due to its strong action, can cause the skin to dry out. Hyaluronic acid, on the other hand, strongly moisturizes our skin. By combining both retinol and hyaluronic acid in one routine, we nullify the irritating effects of retinol, but without changing the effectiveness of either product. On the market, for example, we can find a cream with retinol and hyaluronic acid, which combines both substances in one product. What pairs should we beware of? The combination of retinol and AHA or BHA acids is definitely too strong for our skin, especially at the beginning of our adventure with retinol. Using them together will probably end up with skin irritation and dryness. The combination of retinol and ascorbic acid, also known as vitamin C, will only work if we use them separately - ascorbic acid in the morning and retinol in the evening. Using them during one routine misses the point. Why? Because retinol has a mildly oxidative effect, while vitamin C is known for its antioxidant properties. Retinol used immediately before applying ascorbic acid will make it stop working.
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