Retinol in skincare what’s the deal?
Introduction:
Retinol, a derivative of Vitamin A, has long been hailed as a skincare
superstar due to its ability to rejuvenate the skin and address various
concerns such as wrinkles, fine lines, and uneven skin tone. With its
popularity, an array of retinol products have flooded the market, making it crucial to understand the main different types of retinols available in skincare.
In this blog Emma from EK Clinic will help you to understand the main forms of retinol, their benefits and how to incorporate them into your skincare routine.
1. Retinols stocked at EK Clinic
Microencapsulated pure Retinol is the purest form of Vitamin A found in skincare products. It converts into retinoic acid when applied to the skin and works by accelerating cell turnover, stimulating collagen production, and improving overall skin texture.
Retinol can be hugely beneficial for reducing the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and sun damage. At EK Clinic we stock AlumierMD and are Obagi Ambassadors. We have chosen to partner with these brands because of our confidence in the medical grade standard of the products in their treatment portfolios. We stock 0.25%, 0.5% and 1% and it is essential that you seek a consultation with an experienced medical practitioner to assist making a personalised and bespoke recommendation.
One of the common side effects of Retinol when used incorrectly or without the appropriate advice is skin irritation, especially in higher concentrations. Its therefore important to start with a lower concentration and gradually increase usage. This will be discussed at your consultation at EK Clinic when we make these recommendations. This standard and concentration of Retinol can not be used in over the counter or beauty products. Do not be fooled into thinking that the more inexpensive Retinols are of the high standard and potency that we are able to prescribe at EK Clinic. We won’t be mentioning brands here however true medical grade retinols are few and far between. If you have purchased your product off the internet, without direct advice from a skincare specialist it is likely you are not using this type of retinol. Medical grade cosmeceutical retinol are costed at around £80-£100.
2. Retinyl Palmitate:
Retinyl palmitate is an ester of retinol combined with palmitic acid. It is considered a milder form of retinol, let’s be honest it’s a watered down version and is often found in over-the-counter skincare products. Check the ingredients of your over-the-counter product, it’s most likely it’s one of these type of retinoids. This is the form of retinol many of our clients are using without the understanding that they have been poorly advised or not well informed. This is slower acting compared to other types, it can still provide a host of benefits however at EK Clinic we are results driven and making the correct educated choice will have maximum benefits for your skin.
3. Tretinoin or trans-retinoic acid
This is a prescription only version and for the right skin concern can be highly effective. It is epic in stimulating collagen production and improving skin elasticity. It is worth noting that this form of retinol can be more expensive around £120 and should only be sought from specialist trained prescribing medical professionals. This should not be purchased directly off the internet as not all products are created equal. This should only be offered following a face-to-face prescription and a truly bespoke skincare consultation. This type of product works well for acne scarring, pigmentation and improving skin texture and ageing. It can however need a little more hand holding when starting this product. This is why the professionals are available at EK Clinic to help you make an informed skincare choice and guide you through your regime.
Conclusion:
Understanding the different types of retinol in skincare is crucial for
selecting the most suitable product and achieving desired results. We offer a truly bespoke service at EK Clinic where we can start with a skin analysis and overall product overhaul. We can then assist you in making wiser and more educated choices that are still within budget.
Remember, consistency and patience are key when incorporating retinol into your skincare routine. The professionals at EK Clinic are trained to help you understand the science behind skincare and guide you. This guidance will save you time, money and frustration in buying the wrong product, helping you narrow down your options to what will work for your skin. Find the book now tab on the EK Clinic website and book your personalised skin analysis and take that step to brighter, clearer more refreshed skin.
Introduction:
Retinol, a derivative of Vitamin A, has long been hailed as a skincare
superstar due to its ability to rejuvenate the skin and address various
concerns such as wrinkles, fine lines, and uneven skin tone. With its
popularity, an array of retinol products have flooded the market, making it crucial to understand the main different types of retinols available in skincare.
In this blog Emma from EK Clinic will help you to understand the main forms of retinol, their benefits and how to incorporate them into your skincare routine.
1. Retinols stocked at EK Clinic
Microencapsulated pure Retinol is the purest form of Vitamin A found in skincare products. It converts into retinoic acid when applied to the skin and works by accelerating cell turnover, stimulating collagen production, and improving overall skin texture.
Retinol can be hugely beneficial for reducing the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and sun damage. At EK Clinic we stock AlumierMD and are Obagi Ambassadors. We have chosen to partner with these brands because of our confidence in the medical grade standard of the products in their treatment portfolios. We stock 0.25%, 0.5% and 1% and it is essential that you seek a consultation with an experienced medical practitioner to assist making a personalised and bespoke recommendation.
One of the common side effects of Retinol when used incorrectly or without the appropriate advice is skin irritation, especially in higher concentrations. Its therefore important to start with a lower concentration and gradually increase usage. This will be discussed at your consultation at EK Clinic when we make these recommendations. This standard and concentration of Retinol can not be used in over the counter or beauty products. Do not be fooled into thinking that the more inexpensive Retinols are of the high standard and potency that we are able to prescribe at EK Clinic. We won’t be mentioning brands here however true medical grade retinols are few and far between. If you have purchased your product off the internet, without direct advice from a skincare specialist it is likely you are not using this type of retinol. Medical grade cosmeceutical retinol are costed at around £80-£100.
2. Retinyl Palmitate:
Retinyl palmitate is an ester of retinol combined with palmitic acid. It is considered a milder form of retinol, let’s be honest it’s a watered down version and is often found in over-the-counter skincare products. Check the ingredients of your over-the-counter product, it’s most likely it’s one of these type of retinoids. This is the form of retinol many of our clients are using without the understanding that they have been poorly advised or not well informed. This is slower acting compared to other types, it can still provide a host of benefits however at EK Clinic we are results driven and making the correct educated choice will have maximum benefits for your skin.
3. Tretinoin or trans-retinoic acid
This is a prescription only version and for the right skin concern can be highly effective. It is epic in stimulating collagen production and improving skin elasticity. It is worth noting that this form of retinol can be more expensive around £120 and should only be sought from specialist trained prescribing medical professionals. This should not be purchased directly off the internet as not all products are created equal. This should only be offered following a face-to-face prescription and a truly bespoke skincare consultation. This type of product works well for acne scarring, pigmentation and improving skin texture and ageing. It can however need a little more hand holding when starting this product. This is why the professionals are available at EK Clinic to help you make an informed skincare choice and guide you through your regime.
Conclusion:
Understanding the different types of retinol in skincare is crucial for
selecting the most suitable product and achieving desired results. We offer a truly bespoke service at EK Clinic where we can start with a skin analysis and overall product overhaul. We can then assist you in making wiser and more educated choices that are still within budget.
Remember, consistency and patience are key when incorporating retinol into your skincare routine. The professionals at EK Clinic are trained to help you understand the science behind skincare and guide you. This guidance will save you time, money and frustration in buying the wrong product, helping you narrow down your options to what will work for your skin. Find the book now tab on the EK Clinic website and book your personalised skin analysis and take that step to brighter, clearer more refreshed skin.