Retinol based cream

To buy the “right” retinol cream for the face at the pharmacy, you need to understand the essence of this mysteriously named substance. After all, in essence, this is the familiar vitamin A, which is rightly called the vitamin of youth. But is it really that banal?

Vitamin A is necessary for the entire body to ensure normal functioning. It guarantees the health of our bones, skin, hair and nails. Without a sufficient amount of retinol, the full functioning of the visual organs and immune system is impossible.

It has a positive effect on metabolic and regeneration processes, stimulates the production of substances responsible for the youth and beauty of the whole body, fights infections, relieves inflammation and irritation, and actively resists dermatological problems.

The effectiveness of retinol for our skin

Vitamin A is necessary for the entire body to ensure normal functioning. It guarantees the health of our bones, skin, hair and nails. Without a sufficient amount of retinol, the full functioning of the visual organs and immune system is impossible.

It has a positive effect on metabolic and regeneration processes, stimulates the production of substances responsible for the youth and beauty of the whole body, fights infections, relieves inflammation and irritation, and actively resists dermatological problems.

Based on these functions of the vitamin, we highlight exactly those actions that it has on the epidermis and dermis:

1. retinol for facial skin – a stimulator of restoration and regeneration at the cellular level. It fights hyperpigmentation, improves color, promotes the resorption of scars and post-acne marks;
2. actively moisturizes and maintains fluid balance in the epidermis;
3. prevents inflammatory processes, regulates the functioning of the skin glands;
4. stimulates the production of its own protein compounds collagen and elastin, increasing skin turgor;
5. promotes rapid renewal of the upper layer of epidermal cells;
6. has a beneficial effect on blood circulation processes, strengthens capillary walls, thereby improving oxygen exchange, the supply of nutrients, other vitamins, macro and microelements;
7. has a powerful antioxidant effect, promotes the removal of free radicals and protects against the negative effects of environmental factors.

However, the effectiveness of retinol also has a downside. There is such a thing as “irritation potential,” which is directly related to the concentration of the substance in the cream. The higher the concentration, the greater the effect, but the greater the risk of developing side effects. Or they could be like this:

1. redness of the skin, burning sensation;
2. itching and swelling in the areas where the product is applied;
3. dryness and flaking;
4. various dermatoses;
5. excessive sensitivity to solar radiation;
6. the appearance of pigmentation.

A product in which the concentration of retinol is in a variable range from 1 to 2% is considered to “work” effectively. But there is a nuance here too - depending on the form in which the substance is presented in the composition. Even this dose can cause side effects.

Therefore, we take into account contraindications to the use of all products containing retinol without exception:

1. tendency to allergies;
2. pregnancy;
3. pathologies of the blood system;
4. inflammatory processes and gallstones;
5. pancreatic diseases;
6. violation of the integrity of the skin at the site of application of the product;
7. simultaneously with use with certain medications (be sure to notify your dermatologist about all medications you are taking);
8. age up to 12 years.

People with sensitive skin should be especially careful when starting to use creams with retinol. If this is your first time using the product, it is better to conduct a tolerance test to protect yourself from unwanted consequences.

Attention! If you detect the slightest signs of discomfort, you should immediately stop using the cream and contact the specialist who recommended it to you. Perhaps a high concentration was selected. And one more thing - you need to start using the cream very carefully, apply a small amount of the product, accustoming the body to the new substance.

Forms of Vitamin A

It is best to buy face cream with retinoids at the pharmacy and after consulting a dermatologist. In addition to providing an anti-aging effect, such cosmetics are designed to solve significant dermatological or cosmetic problems - that is, they are a kind of medicine.

In addition, retinol in face cream can have several names. Or rather, varieties of substances that differ in their activity, effectiveness and effect.

1. Retinol is actually the most commonly used form of vitamin A, which is found in non-therapeutic cosmetics. It tends to accumulate in the epidermis and therefore, the longer such a retinoic anti-wrinkle cream is used, the higher its effectiveness. The irritant potential of the substance is several times lower than that of its derivatives. This is important to consider if you use the products for a long time, regardless of the season.
2. Retinyl palmitate is the most stable, but also the least active form of vitamin A. To release pure retinol, which will effectively fight skin problems, our body will have to use many mechanisms. Therefore, this substance is used for preventive rather than medicinal purposes.
3. Retinyl acetate is a representative of the essential retinol series. In creams it is low active and acts as an antioxidant.
4. Retinoic acid is rarely found in cosmetics and is more often present in medications. It has a high irritant potential, but effectively fights wrinkles. This form is used by our body at the cellular level.
5. Isotretinoin is a synthetic substance, even more active, since it immediately penetrates into the cell nucleus. It acts instantly, but the possibility of side effects is very high. It has a teratogenic effect - disrupting the development of the embryo. It is strictly contraindicated for pregnant women.

Pharmacy creams with retinol have both cosmetic and therapeutic effects. They must be used strictly according to indications, which can only be determined by a specialist.

How to choose the right cream - percentage of content and synergy with other products

When studying the composition in creams with retinol, first of all you need to pay attention to the form of the substance and the concentration of its product. It is acceptable to use any form of vitamin A at a concentration of 1-2%. Higher rates are fraught with side effects.

Interesting fact. When calculating the effective dosage, the 1/10 principle is used. That is, 1% retinol is comparable in effectiveness to 0.1% retinoic acid. And if we talk about the natural transformation of less active substances, then in the body they are all converted into retinoic acid.

Many ladies make masks with vitamin A at home, where retinol is used together with additional ingredients, or they buy pharmaceutical products that are balanced and contain a safe concentration of the active substance.

Retinol creams usually contain the following components:

1. vitamin E, which, when paired with its “brother,” has an anti-aging effect on the epidermis;
2. vitamin C slows down the processes of retinol conversion and additionally acts as an anti-inflammatory agent;
3. panthenol improves tissue regeneration, promotes the healing of microwounds on the skin surface;
4. hyaluronic acid, thermal water - for deep hydration and maintaining a healthy fluid balance;
5. vegetable oils and extracts nourish the skin. Retinol enhances their activity;
6. marine collagen - to supply “building material” used in the synthesis of protein compounds;
7. glycolic acid enhances the anti-aging effect;
8. fruit acids help cleanse the epidermis of dead cells, which allows deeper penetration of active substances into the epidermis and dermis.

Knowing about all the pitfalls of cosmetic products containing retinol, it is easy to conclude - we buy proven, high-quality products and only after consultation with a cosmetologist or dermatologist. This is exactly the case when excessive care can turn into a real disaster.

The use of retinoic creams is sometimes included in the care of oily and dehydrated skin. Why? Because it is they that allow you to create a protective film on the surface, and also improve the uneven relief inherent in the oily type.

Useful video about retinoic creams:

List of the best creams that can be found in the pharmacy

So, you come to the pharmacy and are faced with a choice - what to buy? Moreover, on the shelf there are a wide range of retinol creams from different manufacturers.

Do the right thing - reviews of face cream with retinol will help you decide (but this is in addition to the recommendation of a specialist). We present a rating of products with the opinions of clients who have already tried such a product on themselves, their loved ones.

The best retinol creams from foreign manufacturers

"Lift Activ Retinol" from Vichy. The popular brand did not stand aside from the release of pharmaceutical preparations with retinol. The cream has proven itself to be an effective remedy with a minimum of side effects. It additionally contains thermal water and hyaluronic acid. It perfectly copes with dry skin, completely eliminates fine wrinkles and significantly reduces more pronounced ones.

Albina, 35 years old, Moscow

“Either I have a tendency to form wrinkles, or the way of life and its frantic rhythm affected my appearance, but I began to notice very strong age-related changes with pronounced wrinkles, pigmentation on the cheekbones, dryness and flaking of the skin on the face, especially in the area of ​​the nasolabial triangle .

The cosmetologist advised me to use a cream with retinol, but only from the pharmacy. He said that it would be more effective and better than a product from a cosmetic store. Vichy cream intrigued me because I heard about this brand from my friends.

I’ve been using it for about a month and the results are noticeable - the skin is moisturized, wrinkles have become less pronounced, the spots on the cheeks are not so bright. And the smaller ones have completely disappeared."

Valentina, 47 years old, Tver

“I won’t go into detail about what skin problems women my age have. And I want to look as impressive as I did ten years ago. I’ll be honest – I didn’t go to a cosmetologist or dermatologist. I know about all my features. Therefore, before buying the cream, I took just a drop of Lift Active from Vichy from a friend and did an allergy test. As it turned out, I can use it, although I have the sin of being overly sensitive to any cosmetics.

What can I tell you – the result is visible and good. But even such an excellent cream is not able to stop time, as the manufacturer promises.”

"Redermic R" La Roche-Posay - the cream is very light in texture and practically does not cause irritation, since the retinol in it is presented in a form with low irritating potential. However, it is effective with long-term use and can be used year-round. Only in hot and sunny seasons should you additionally use products with UV filters.

Lyudmila, 42 years old, Perm

“The cream is really very light, soft and pleasant. Absorbs very quickly, softens the skin, makes it moisturized and tightened. The only thing is that I expected a faster effect.

But if you need prolongation, and not an immediate result, then you cannot find a better remedy. At least I won't look for anything else."

Oksana, 39 years old, Samara

“I’m not very happy with this cream, but I expected the result to be more pronounced and faster. But if you use it for a long time and regularly, it will probably be good. For now, I lubricate my face in the evening to avoid the appearance of pigmentation (the cosmetologist told me about this). And now I’m thinking - maybe it’s worth it twice a day and take another filter in addition, then it will be faster and more effective?!”

“Kinetinol” Mart >Irina, 32 years old, Surgut

“Northern latitudes are not conducive to blooming appearance due to constant temperature changes. So I suffered from these effects - after giving birth, my skin became very dry and flaky. It even cracked in the cold. Pigment spots appeared that irritated me terribly.

Another trip to the cosmetologist ended with me going to the pharmacy and buying myself a cream with retinol. I’ve been using it for three months now and I’m happy - the dryness has begun to appear less, the spots have gone away, my face has brightened and smoothed out.”

Victoria, 28 years old, St. Petersburg

“Difficult childbirth, taking hormones and the problems that arose as a result did not have the best effect on my appearance. Spots appeared on the face and they began to progress. Then acne came along. The doctor recommended a cream with retinol. Kinetinol Martiderm turned out to be very effective. He still really helps me cope with defects that are slowly going away.”

Obagi is a whole line of products with retinol from American manufacturers. It is used only for the treatment of dermatological problems and exclusively in professional clinics.

Olga, 38 years old, Ryazan

“I have very serious problems with my face - acne has left not only scars, but whole “ditches.” Pigmentation, acne, psoriasis began. I was forced to go to Moscow for a consultation with a dermatologist. A friend took me to a specialized clinic, where I was given a couple of cleansing sessions and masks using American drugs.

They gave me the cream home and told me how to use it. I’m back to my old form!”

Elena, 34 years old, Murmansk

“Girls, these products are only for professionals. You can buy them at the pharmacy, but is it necessary?! The concentration of very retinol in different forms is high. Sami, you are unlikely to cope with their use within reasonable limits. The drug is effective, I won’t argue. But only in the hands of doctors"

The list of face creams with retinol from foreign manufacturers can be continued not with pharmacy products, but with purely cosmetic products. L'Oreal, Garnier, Oley did not remain aloof from producing creams with vitamin A. These are inexpensive but effective products that our compatriots love.

Natalya, 33 years old, Ramenskoye

“I have been using Garnier cream with retinol for quite some time. There were problems with dry skin, pigmentation, sagging. If you use it regularly, take day and night products, in addition to peelings and scrubs, then the result will be, believe me.”

Tamara, 42 years old, Samara

“Oley cream is my favorite. I have been using it for a long time and when it was time to take more radical measures to combat age-related changes, I bought a product with retinol from this brand without hesitation. I recommend it to everyone – the cream is simply a miracle.”

Creams with retinol made in Russia

Now let's turn our attention to Russian-made face cream with retinol. The list will also be quite long, and all the products have remarkable qualities.

"Shark Power" A whole line of products with vitamin A is presented: day and night cream, masks. Plant extracts and oils, vitamin complexes are used as additional components. The skin acquires an even color, elasticity, wrinkles are smoothed out, and turgor improves.

Valeria, 35 years old, Moscow

“I am a fan of domestic products, including cosmetics. Creams based on shark retinol are a worthy alternative to branded products."

Anna, 42 years old, Novosibirsk

“Given my tendency to allergies, it is very difficult to find the right cream or mask. "Shark Power" worked perfectly - there is no irritation, redness or rashes that appeared after one expensive and very advertised product"

Nature Siberian. Night rejuvenating face cream. In addition to retinol, it contains extracts from the unique Siberian plant Cladonia snowy, fruit acids and other plant extracts. Gives skin elasticity, radiance, freshness, eliminates wrinkles, slows down the aging process.

Daria, 38 years old, Murmansk

“Natura Siberica is a very good cream that fulfills all its obligations. It moisturizes, restores skin, softens and gives elasticity. Wrinkles are smoothed out, the color becomes even and radiant."

Larisa, 45 years old, Ivanovo

“Cream with retinol from Siberika helped me cope with many problems - in particular, it removed pigmentation, smoothed out wrinkles, moisturized the skin and evened out the tone of the face.”

Black pearl “Self-rejuvenation”. A popular series of creams - day, night, ultra lifting. It contains vitamin complexes and plant extracts that perfectly tone, moisturize, soften the skin, and effectively fight the aging process at the cellular level.

Evelina, 39 years old, Moscow

“I’m not impressed with the results of using the Black Pearl cream. Self-rejuvenation." The manufacturer's promises are greatly exaggerated. There is no such “wow” effect. An average cream that matches its low price. It is impossible to say that it is generally useless. But after reading the recommendations you expect more.”

Valentina, 45 years old, Irkutsk

“Black pearls have settled on my dressing table for a long time and firmly. I used all the suggested products according to my age. And now she has not changed her convictions. Creams with retinol met all expectations"

Belita-Vitex day and night cream. Regular use guarantees restoration of the skin, active tissue regeneration, deep hydration and adequate nutrition of the epidermis and dermis.

Tatyana, 40 years old, Syzran

“If I had found such a remedy earlier, many problems could have been avoided altogether, and some would not have been so bright and expressive. But the effectiveness is obvious, or rather, on the face. The oval is tightened, age spots disappear, the skin is smoothed, becomes velvety and even.”

Marina, 49 years old, Omsk

“Well, cream and cream are no better or worse than similar products in this price category. There is an effect, but it is not pronounced. It needs to be used for a long time and regularly.”

Caviale Vitamin A with oils and antioxidant complex. The very light texture of the cream allows you to use it at any time of the day, including as a base for makeup. Evens out tone, protects against free radicals and solar radiation, smoothes wrinkles, moisturizes and nourishes the epidermis.

Arina, 34 years old, Tver

“I didn’t expect that for such very little money you could buy such a worthy product. The cream is very pleasant, smells subtle and unobtrusive, is perfectly absorbed, and fulfills all its “obligations.” The foundation goes on smoothly on it. It doesn’t clog pores and doesn’t cause oily shine.”

Ekaterina, 42 years old, Tomsk

“The cream is above all praise - even somewhat better than expensive French analogues. It is absorbed easily and quickly and does not cause irritation (which is very important for me). The skin after it is soft, delicate, velvety and even.”

Characteristics in the rating

Retinol is a form of vitamin A, which, when it enters the pores of the skin, goes into the stage of transformation into retinolic acid and it is this process that causes the effect of regeneration (renewal) of the skin. The component does a good job of stimulating the production of collagen and elastin, which are responsible for skin tone and elasticity, so creams containing retinol are a godsend for those who want to avoid the appearance of new wrinkles or the deepening of existing ones. Reviews often write that in addition to the anti-aging effect, you can observe the lightening of age spots and their adjustment to the complexion. And cosmetologists often mention its antioxidant properties, because retinol protects against the harmful effects of the environment and neutralizes free radicals.

Due to such a range of positive effects, retinol was often purchased independently in pharmacies; it has an oily texture and sells for a modest price. But here it is very important to note that retinol is a potent substance, so its concentration should not exceed the norm, and the highest permissible value is 2%. Such proportions cannot be maintained at home, so it is still better to trust certified cosmetics. By the way, not every professional cream will be good for everyday use. In order to help you understand the abundance of creams containing retinol offered today, we have created a rating of the best products for different purposes and different pricing policies.

TOP 10 best creams with retinol

10 Vitex Retinol+Mg “Day. Deep Action"

Budget cream Retinol+Mg “Day. Deep action" is universal and suitable for any skin type. It is recommended to use the product after 35 years of age. The texture of the cream is light, quickly absorbed into the pores and does not leave a greasy film or shine. The product does an excellent job of evening out skin color, so the product can be a good base for makeup. The microrelief is smoothed thanks to the oils of red oil palm and wheat germ.

Retinol perfectly renews skin cells and activates collagen synthesis. And magnesium, which is part of the cream, will strengthen the skin fibers and relieve tension in the facial muscles, which undoubtedly has a beneficial effect on tissue tone. According to consumer reviews, the cream, if used regularly, can “erase” recently formed shallow wrinkles. Vitex Retinol+Mg “Day. Deep Action" is recommended to be applied to the skin with gentle movements twice a day.

9 Elizavecca Milky Piggy EGF Retinol

EGF Elizavecca Milky Piggy EGF Retinol cream is a type of age-related cosmetics and it is recommended to use this Korean product from the age of 35. The composition includes macadamia oil, oligopeptide, adenosine, swallow's nest extract, retinol, niacinamide, arginine. Macadamia nut oil perfectly nourishes the skin, accelerating the regeneration of new cells. Niacinamide prevents the evaporation of moisture from the facial skin, perfectly moisturizing dry skin; improves blood circulation.

Swallow's nest extract is one of the best substances that evens out skin tone and texture, smoothing out small scars and spots that appear, for example, after acne. Also, swallow's nest has a lifting effect, which is especially important during the period of “blurring” of facial contours. The cream became a review leader, receiving many positive responses from both professional cosmetologists and ordinary consumers. The result becomes noticeable after just one month of use.

8 Medical Collagene 3D Revital Line Collagen

Revital Line Collagen moisturizing cream from the famous Russian brand Medical Collagene 3D is intended for everyday skin care. The action of the cream is aimed at renewing mature “fading” skin, it enhances and stimulates natural rejuvenation processes (collagen production, replacement of old cells with new ones), smoothes wrinkles and tightens the oval of the face. In addition to the rejuvenating effect, the cream improves complexion and gives a healthy glow to the skin.

Medical Collagene 3D Revital Line Collagen cream contains one of the best moisture retainers in skin cells - hyaluronic acid, 1 molecule of which retains up to 1000 molecules of water. And the complex of acids will enhance the processes of natural tissue regeneration. Also included: panthenol, collagen, allantoin, olive oil and peach kernels. The manufacturer recommends using the cream at the first appearance of signs of aging.

7 SkinCode genetic's Energy Retinol

SkinCode genetic's Energy Retinol is the best complex cream. The composition includes retinol, tocopherol, ascorbic acid, coenzyme, lipid complex. Coenzyme is a substance that helps remove toxins from skin cells, thereby allowing oxygen to circulate in the pores, which improves the overall condition of the tissues. Scientific research confirms that thanks to coenzyme, the elasticity of the epidermis is improved and its microrelief is smoothed.

The lipid complex perfectly supports skin immunity, and retinol lightens pigmentation on the face and reduces the depth of wrinkles. The vitamin complex protects the skin from damage from toxic substances from the air, which helps maintain healthy and radiant skin. It is recommended to use the cream from the age of 30. After regular use, the skin surface is evened out, small scars are smoothed out, spots are lightened, and complexion improves.

6 HOLY LAND ALPHA-BETA WITH RETINOL RESTORING

Holy Land ALPHA-BETA WITH RETINOL RESTORING face cream is perfect for sensitive and problematic skin. For those with sensitive skin to UV rays, the manufacturer added lactic acid to the composition; for flaky skin – hydrolyzed silk; for those prone to rashes and allergic reactions – blueberry extract. And the concentration of retinol, verified by the manufacturer, helps restore the epidermis during the post-acne period and heal small wounds and scars.

Reviews often write that they observe the effect of evening out skin tone and removing age spots. And the fruit acids in the composition are responsible for this. In addition, these acids also have a mild cleansing effect; exfoliating dead cells, the cream fights for breathing pores. Those who have tried the cream note that noticeable improvements in skin condition are observed after just one month of use. It is also acceptable to apply the product to the area around the eyes.

5 Klapp A Classic "Vitamin A"

Klapp A Classic "Vitamin A" cream is designed to care for the delicate skin around the eyes and its composition is recognized as one of the best according to reviews from cosmetology experts. The product contains a rich caring complex consisting of retinol, vitamin E, aloe, wheat germ oil, and beeswax. Aloe vera is the best way to refresh dull skin; retinol promotes enhanced cell renewal; beeswax has an excellent lifting effect and deeply nourishes the skin around the eyes, and also promotes the healing of small cracks.

Wheat germ oil has a stimulating effect on the process of tissue regeneration, softens them and eliminates flaking. The epidermis is actively renewed, resulting in a rejuvenation effect. Tocopherol is a powerful antioxidant that protects skin collagen fibers from aging. Bisabolol is a skin moisturizing and nourishing substance that does not cause allergies even in children.

4 THE FACE SHOP SMIM FIRMING CARE

This face cream is both protective and rejuvenating. The composition includes: adenosine niacinamide, propolis and Tibetan mushroom extracts. Propolis extract, due to the content of organic acids and essential oils, has bactericidal and anti-inflammatory properties. Propolis perfectly heals microcracks and enhances the protective functions of the skin. Tibetan mushroom extract improves elasticity and retains moisture in the skin, and also smoothes microrelief.

Niacinamide is one of the best stimulators of cellular renewal. Thanks to its action, the skin becomes more elastic, wrinkles are reduced, age-related pigmentation disappears, and collagen production increases. The reviews pay special attention to the protective qualities of the cream. The product perfectly protects the skin from weather conditions (wind, direct sunlight, cold), so the face does not dry out or flake.

3 GIGI Retinol Forte Skin Lightening

Face cream from one of the best Israeli cosmetic companies - GIGI, thanks to the presence of retinol in the composition, has a powerful lightening effect on pigmented areas of tissue. Changes of any etiology can be lightened: freckles, scars (including post-operative scars), traces of post-acne, chloasma. In addition to retinol, kojic acid and bearberry extract are responsible for the brightening properties, which prevent the production of melanin (darkening pigment).

Azelaic acid has an antimicrobial and sebum-regulating effect, so the use of GIGI Retinol Forte Skin Lightening cream will be appropriate in the treatment of acne. Glycolic acid contained in the cream perfectly exfoliates dead skin cells. A great advantage will be the ability to apply the cream to the area around the eyes, and it is in this area that pigmentation is often present.

2 SesDerma Retises Eye Contour

This retinol cream is designed specifically for lifting the skin around the eyes. The cosmetic product, according to consumer reviews, reduces bags under the eyes, lightens dark circles, and eliminates a “tired” look. In addition to retinol, the cream contains a stable form of vitamin C, hibiscus extract, and boswellic acids. Vitamin C is the best antioxidant for facial skin, which protects tissue from premature aging.

Boswellic acid is known as one of the best antioxidants. Hibiscus extract has a beneficial effect on the skin around the eyes due to its tonic effect; with daily use, the balance of fluid in the tissues is regulated and their swelling goes away. Another property of hibiscus is the stimulation of collagen synthesis, thanks to this a rejuvenating effect is achieved, because the skin weakened by bags begins to tighten and the blue color disappears from it.

1 Ericson Laboratoire Nourishing Cream With Fresh Caviar Cells

The cream perfectly restores tissue, stimulates cell regeneration, increases skin elasticity and tightens the oval of the face. It contains an unusual component - caviar concentrate. Caviar is known for the presence of unsaturated fatty acids, which are simply necessary to maintain healthy facial skin. Shea butter softens the skin and also nourishes it with acids and vitamins. Mango butter has an antioxidant effect (protection from the harmful effects of the environment).

Tritisol is a complex of hydrolyzed wheat proteins that help maintain the optimal pH level of the epidermis. This complex has an activating effect on collagen production. By the way, laboratory studies have shown that the new collagen fibers produced are much stronger than the old ones, which is why the likelihood of new wrinkles is minimized, which is confirmed by reviews from those who have tried it.

Published Dec 22, 2013

Autumn and winter are the best time to try or repeat a course of retinol-based anti-aging care. I want to share my experience of using it, perhaps it will help someone avoid mistakes and unwanted effects, and I will also tell you about fairly effective and inexpensive pharmaceutical cosmetics containing retinol.

Having demonstrated its high effectiveness in combating all signs of skin aging (loss of elasticity, wrinkles, pigmentation), retinol rightfully tops the list of the most effective anti-aging ingredients in cosmetic products.

As you know, retinol, or vitamin A, is a fat-soluble vitamin that we need for vision, healthy skin and hair, normal functioning of the immune system and bone growth. It is also a natural antioxidant and humectant. Split ends, brittle nails and the appearance of cracks in the skin and corners of the lips often indicate a lack of this vitamin. It is found in the highest concentrations in liver, fish oil, egg yolk, as well as in plant foods - green and yellow vegetables and fruits, and some legumes.

It is difficult to stabilize retinol in its pure form, so its synthetic analogues, retinoids, are used for cosmetic purposes. The most common form in creams is Retinyl palmitate, it is a more stable chemical compound and is not as irritating to the skin. Many products also use a form of retinol such as Retinaldehyde, which allows them to be used even on sensitive skin without the side effects of redness and peeling.

What are the improvements in skin condition after using retinol?

1. Visible smoothingwrinkles both subtle and more defined;
2. Lightening pigment spots and overall evening out skin tone, thanks to the ability of retinol to regulate melanocyte activity;
3. Smoothing and evening out skin texture, pores become less noticeable, skin smoother due to the renewing properties of this component (stimulates the proliferation of epidermal keratinocytes).
4. Skin elasticity increases, retinol is the only active ingredient that affects collagen in 3 directions: it restores damaged fibers, stimulates the production of new ones and protects by inhibiting collagenase.

What do you need to know before you start using retinol?

Retinol increases skin sensitivity and photosensitivity, Therefore, it is recommended for night care, while during the day a cream with a high degree of protection will be needed. It is recommended to start using products with retinol in the fall, when solar activity decreases, and then take a break in the spring-summer. With proper consistent use of retinol in combination with other care products (containing peptides, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid), the result will immediately appear after 2 months of use. During pregnancy and lactation, it is better to avoid products with retinol.

How to properly use retinol-containing products to achieve maximum effectiveness?

The latest generation of cosmetic products usually contain microencapsulated pure retinol, which is released upon contact with the skin and consistently delivers optimal doses of vitamin A to the deep layers of the epidermis.

Most European dermatologists and dermopharmacists recommend starting rejuvenation course with retinol from its small concentrations (0.50% - 0.1%) or from products containing the precursor of retinoic acid - retinoldehyde, which is well tolerated even by sensitive skin prone to allergic reactions. Since we are talking about rejuvenation, as a rule, there is no need to use products with retinol until the age of 35–40, although this does not mean that after 35 it is already necessary to use it. It all depends on the condition of the skin, its needs and the products used previously.

Retinol creams are best used for night care. 3 times a week. However, it is also possible to use retinol daily as intensive therapy - in small concentrations for 2 months, and then for maintenance care - 2-3 times a week.

The product is applied to thoroughly cleansed, dry skin; upon first use, a slight tingling may occur until the skin gradually gets used to it.

If you need to use an additional care product after a product with retinol, you should wait at least 30 minutes before applying the next product (this can be moisturizing, tightening serums or creams). However, as a rule, night creams with retinol also contain other active caring ingredients, which makes them comprehensive, complete care.

What products can you combine retinol with for the effect of renewed, smooth skin?

It is very important to remember that retinol is hydroscopic, i.e. can dehydrate the skin, therefore, it is necessary to combine its use with moisture-retaining products rich in hyaluronic acid or gluconolactone. Their use should be included in your daily morning care routine, and a deeply moisturizing mask should be applied at least once a week.

Thanks to its renewing ability, retinol is ideal as a transcursor for the absorption of the active ingredients of products combined with it. The best results were seen when combined with vitamin C, that is, retinol at night, vitamin C in the morning. As a night remedy on days when retinol cream is not applied, many cosmetologists advise using products with glycolic acid, which itself itself is one of the strongest anti-aging agents. Thus, the superficial layers of the epidermis (glycolic acid) and deeper layers (retinol) are gently exfoliated and renewed. I talked about my experience using products with glycolic acid here, and about the top 5 best pharmacy creams containing it here.

Psample model of anti-aging skin care routine with a course of retinol it will look like this:

Morning: cleansing + antioxidant moisturizer with vitamin C + SPF (remember to reapply every two hours if you are outdoors).

Evening: cleansing + product with retinol (2 – 3 times a week) + if necessary, additional care product, wait 30 minutes. On the remaining days of the week, instead of retinol, a product with glycolic acid is applied. It is necessary to supplement this treatment with a deeply moisturizing mask 1-2 times a week.

Personal experience using retinol

I bought my first cream with retinol after 35 years, it was Retinol 0,3% from SkinCeuticals. I wanted to smooth out already noticeable wrinkles between the eyebrows and on the forehead, narrow pores and make the surface of the skin smoother, even out its tone, and also lighten post-acne spots. By that time, I was already using creams containing 15% glycolic acid, which my skin responded to with a bang. My dermopharmacist advised me to add retinol to my skincare regimen in the fall to work more deeply on facial wrinkles between the eyebrows and, in general, on uneven skin texture.

I must say that I adhered to the above-mentioned care regimen and in the morning I used liposomal antioxidant serum C-Vit from Sesderma, and a protective screen from SkinCeuticals Ultra Facial Defense SPF50. In night care I alternated Retinol 0,3% (3 times a week) with NeoStrata High Potency Gel with 15% glycolic acid. I combined both of these products with active moisturizing and tightening ampoules Endocare Tensage.

After just two weeks of such care, the skin tone noticeably evened out, it tightened and became more radiant, smoothed, and the pores became cleaner. At the same time, I began to feel a slight tightness and dehydration, and sometimes the skin on my nose peeled off. These troubles quickly disappeared with the introduction of a moisturizing serum with a high content of hyaluronic acid Hydrating B5 from SkinCeuticals into my morning routine (the dermatologist recommended applying it over the C-vit serum) and using a moisturizing mask-cream from Caudalie twice a week.

As for the expression wrinkles on the forehead and between the eyebrows, after a 2-month course they definitely softened, but still cannot be said to have “disappeared”.

Top 5 pharmacy creams with retinol

1. Retinol 0,3%, SkinCeuticals is my favorite and an absolute must have for nighttime anti-aging care during the fall-winter period. Ultra-light texture, quickly absorbed without leaving a greasy film. Average price 90 euros. Capacity 30 ml. It is used very sparingly: it was enough for a full course of 5-6 months and the contents still remained.

2. Redermic R, La Roche-Posay - this cream, in the year of its appearance, 2012, became the winner in the category “Best innovative product among anti-aging products” according to the results of the annual vote of dermopharmacists in Spain. High efficiency without skin irritation, pleasant light texture. Average price 38 euros.

3. Eluage, Avéne - a whole range of products for the care of the face, eye contour and body. An ideal product for sensitive skin based on retinoldehyde, it improves skin elasticity. For the face it is available in the form of an emulsion - for normal, oily or combination skin, and in the form of a cream for dry skin. Average price 30 euros.

4. LipoCeutical Retises Nano, the Spanish pharmaceutical concern Sesderma, - the advantage of this product is that retinol is contained in nanosomes, which promotes its transport to the deeper layers of the epidermis. Available in concentrations of 0.15%, 0.25% and 0.50%. Price from 45 to 50 euros depending on concentration.

5. Kinetinol, Martiderm. Its texture is more suitable for normal and dry skin; it also has a restorative and nourishing effect. Here, retinol acts in synergy with such an active component as kinetin; in addition, it contains macadamia oil, shea butter, jojoba oil, vitamin E and a regenerating complex. Average price 32 euros.

Have you already used products with retinol? Which product containing it was effective for you?