what ?

Retinol as a member of the retinoid family - derivatives of vitamin A - is probably the most discussed and at the same time
most feared active ingredient in cosmetics. Every skin type can benefit from it, so why should fear stand in the way of our
journey to the best version of our skin?

when ?

Winter can be called the retinol season, precisely because the assumption is that exposure to UVA and UVB radiation is lower.
If you have already crossed the "late twenties" (25 years) threshold, you are definitely a suitable candidate for
incorporating retinoids into your skin care routine, either to improve its condition or to prevent
signs of its aging.

why ?

Upon contact with the skin, enzymes in our body transform retinol into retinoic acid, which
several times accelerates cell regeneration and stimulates collagen production at the cellular level. In doing so
it also supports the brightening of hyperpigmentation, heals inflamed pores and is therefore helpful both in the fight against
wrinkles and acne. This process can result in skin sensitivity and a feeling of dryness, which
however can be successfully prevented by following the following tips - "how to start with retinoids":

1. Evening only!
All retinoid products should be used strictly in your evening care routine. Another common rule is
avoiding retinol in your routine during pregnancy. During this period, an alternative in the form of
rosehip oil or the plant ingredient bakuchiol is recommended.

2. Start slowly!
In addition to choosing products with lower concentrations of retinol (0.1% - 0.3%) at the beginning, it is advisable to
apply your moisturizing cream not only after but also before the first application of a retinoid product - this
active ingredient can even be mixed directly with the cream. The "buffering" technique ensures
skin hydration and gradual absorption of retinol. In my opinion, the most beginner-
friendly products are Granactive Retinoids from The Ordinary, which thanks to advanced
retinoic acid ester technology cause almost no skin irritation.

3. The six-week rule
If undesirable effects do not appear on you (perhaps not even the desirable ones yet), it does not mean that you should automatically
increase the concentration of retinol. The effects of vitamin A on the skin are manifested in the long term
with regular use. You can then increase the intensity of its use from the initial
"once every few days" to "every other day or every day". Skin tolerance is an individual matter, but if
after six weeks of intensive product use no sensitivity appears, you can consider
purchasing a product with higher concentration. A suitable candidate can be my favorite
Resurfacing Retinol Treatment from the Merumaya brand (0.3% retinol) or one of the classic
versions of retinol in squalane from The Ordinary.

4. Keep it simple
At the beginning, it is not recommended to combine retinoids with other active ingredients within one routine. Try
dedicating each evening to just one active ingredient, or alternate your exfoliants during your morning care routine.
This way you will maintain simplicity and effectiveness of your routine, while also avoiding unpleasant consequences
of failed experiments on the precious canvas of your face.

5. Retinol's best friends
Retinoids do get along with some substances and complement them. A harmonious relationship with vitamin A
is created by vitamin B3 - Niacinamide, which soothes the skin, among other things, contributes to the protective
function of the skin and thus reduces the risk of irritation.

Since retinoids increase skin sensitivity to sunlight, SPF is a truly MANDATORY part of your morning routine

even during winter months. I recommend trying mineral protection Survival from NIOD, precisely because of its pleasant

consistency and added value in the form of advanced technologies protecting the skin from free radicals, air pollution and infrared radiation.

I hope I have given you the courage to embark on a journey towards the best possible version of your skin with
retinoids.

If you have any questions about the mentioned products, do not hesitate to
contact me at: https://www.instagram.com/barbara.kedzierski/ or the girls from Natureal at shop@natureal.sk

Wishing you beautiful skin,
yours Barbara

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This article was written for you by Barbara, a beautiful woman who is passionate about fashion, beauty and travel

https://www.instagram.com/barbara.kedzierski/

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