Retinol Myths Debunked

Retinol Myths Debunked At RITUAL Skin & Beauty Clinics In Hampshire

Retinol – love it or hate it? At RITUAL Skin & Beauty Clinics in Alton & Alresford, we believe it’s an ingredient everyone should be including in their routine if you want firmer, plumper, smoother, more even and more youthful looking skin. But like all good things, it does have some downsides when not used correctly. And this has give rise to some Retinol Myths.

Myth 1 – I can use any product that contains Retinol, they are all created equal.

First of all what is Retinol? It is a form of Vitamin A which comes in different forms such as retinal, retinol palmitate, retin-A, etc. It also comes in different concentration levels and percentages, too. Confusing, huh? Well, what if we told you that 1% Retinol in one product could have HUGE differentiations in concentration and effectiveness compared to 1% Retinol in another product.

Hmm, perhaps it doesn’t actually surprise you when you consider the cost and availability of some products. If a teenager can buy it in from a supermarket, it’s probably not going to be very effective. So, what do we recommend?

Firstly medical grade only, this ensures the quality and therefore efficacy. It ensures the concentration and therefore ensures the product is safe to use. It also has to be prescribed by a trained skincare specialist. Secondly, we recommend encapsulated retinol. This means it is gradually released into the skin through the night ensuring your skin isn’t overwhelmed and avoiding any adverse effects.

Myth 2 – Retinol doesn’t work on my skin.

We hear this a lot, and when you consider all of the points above about the range of poor quality products and ingredients being released in an unregulated way, you can understand why some adverse reactions happen. Dry, itchy, irritated and sensitised skin are all reactions of poor quality retinol, or retinol introduced incorrectly and at the wrong levels of concentration.

Remember the Rules when it comes to Retinol – Low and Slow. Low concentrations to start with, and 2 times a week initially, gradually working up.

And – Retinol at the Right time. Your skin should be in good condition before starting retinol, we need to ensure you barrier function is not compromised and that you have a good routine to support retinol at home first.

Myth 3 – You’ll see results immediately.

If only! Like all good things, you’ve got to wait for it! Think weeks and months of gradually increasing the skin’s tolerance before seeing the benefit. But when you do, you’ll be a convert!

Book An Appointment At Top Hampshire Skin Clinics

At RITUAL Skin & Beauty Clinics in Alton & Alresford, we offer a range of skincare treatments that are designed to help your skin for that gorgeous glow. To book an appointment, please call your local RITUAL Beauty Clinic or book online using the button.