Anti-aging
Retinoids. The golden standard when it comes to anti-aging.
If you are not already using one, you are behind the 8 ball. Your collagen production starts to decline in your 20s and then dramatically starting at age 30.
Benefits:
Retinoids stimulate your body to produce its own collagen. You’re basically changing your body’s biology and stopping the aging process. Even reversing it!
This isn’t a temporary fix like Botox. This is actually preventing your skin from aging.
Retinoids are basically topical vitamin A. Retinoic acid being the strongest because it is already in its active form (prescription only). Anything over the counter is going to be weaker since it has to be converted to the active retinoic acid form once applied. And this process depends on how much retinol is in the product, the pH of the skin, how old the product is….plus they can be expensive. Just go for the good stuff and ask for a prescription.
In addition to anti-aging, retinoids help with brightening and lightening, scarring, acne, evening skin tone and texture…basically everything we have ever asked for.
It increases the cell turnover rate which means your skin is producing brand new skin and getting rid of the old. Baby skin. Tight, unwrinkled baby skin. Yes, thank you Jesus.
Things to know if you start a retinoid:
Those old skin layers that protect you from the sun are gone. You’re left with no protection so you have to be diligent about wearing sunscreen. Plus why would you want your new tight baby face wrinkled?
Also if you’re using the prescription form, beware because it is strong. Start slow (like once or twice a week). Don’t apply on wet skin. And avoid the corners of your lips, nasal folds/nares, and under your eyes (trust me, it hurts to peel in these places).
I personally like to apply on a moisturized face. I get less irritation that way. And I mix a pea size amount with more moisturizer and then apply. (Before I apply, I put an ointment under my eyes, nasal folds/nares, and corners of my lips. This way it protects those areas.)
This is the ointment I use. It doesn’t clog your pores or break you out. And it contains ceramides unlike other ointments.
Make sure you’re using a good moisturizer. This stuff makes you so dry. My need for a good moisturizer due to starting retin-A is what inspired my obsession with skin care. The blue Cerave jar is by far the most highly recommended moisturizer on every site/reference I searched. And I agree. It’s amazing and inexpensive. And works 10x better if applied onto a wet face.
Also, before you apply again, make sure your skin has recovered. You don’t want more irritation on already irritated skin. This can lead to hyperpigmentation and inflammation. You will see effects from just properly moisturizing alone. So go slow.
And avoid completely if you’re pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
Retinoids are well studied and have been around for a very long time. It is hard to argue that it is the best for anti-aging.
Refer to my skin care page for more.
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