Retinol is an active ingredient increasingly found in skincare products. It is effective in combating loss of firmness as well as unclogging pores, making it highly favoured for the care of mature skin, as well as oily (+) and acne-prone skin. Discover the various galenic forms in which it can be incorporated, as well as our products containing this active ingredient to fight against ageing.
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In which products can we find retinol?
Summary
- A brief overview of Retinol
- Products containing retinol in the cosmetic market
- Our retinol skincare treatments
- Sources
Published November 18, 2021,
updated on February 21, 2024,
by
Maylis, Chemical Engineer
—
6 min read
A brief overview of Retinol.
Theretinol, retinoic acid, and retinal are the three available forms ofvitamin A. These molecules belong to the family ofretinoidsof the first generation.
When applied topically, retinol is metabolised into retinoic acid, its active form, through an enzymatic system naturally present in the epidermis. Retinol helps to smooth and refine the skin texture, enhance the complexion's radiance, and diminish deep wrinkles as well as expression lines. It stimulates the production of collagen and elastin for smoother and more elastic skin. Moreover, it is recognised for its antioxidant properties that prevent premature ageing of skin cells. It also has an effect on the skin's melanin production, helping to reduce the appearance of pigmentation spots that can appear with age.
Take note! Retinoids, even when applied topically, are contraindicated for pregnant women or those planning a pregnancy. Even though the absorption of retinoids into the bloodstream is low when used topically, there may be a risk of foetal malformation.
Products containing retinol in the cosmetic market.
Retinol is a component of many facial care products, among which we can mention night creams, serums, masks and even some creams intended for the eye contour, for its brightening virtues on dark circles and bags.
Several scientific studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of retinol against signs of ageing starting from 0.01%. The European Cosmetic Regulation allows its incorporation in leave-on products up to a maximum concentration of 0.3%. Be careful, overdosing this active ingredient could prove at best useless, at worst dangerous. Indeed, at high concentrations, it can cause significant skin irritations.
It's worth noting, retinol is found in a few select haircare products such as serums to stimulate growth or cleanse the scalp, and even in shampoos. Thanks to its keratolytic action, retinol eliminates dead cells present on the scalp and promotes cellular renewal. It also minimises the action of the sebaceous glands and therefore the production of sebum for a purified scalp. Moreover, studies have demonstrated its effectiveness on hair growth. This action is further amplified when retinol is combined with another active ingredient, minoxidil. Offering promising results, this duo could even present itself as a potential treatment against alopecia.
Our retinol skincare treatments.
At Typology, we have developed five treatments containing this multifunctional active ingredient.
Formulated with 0.3% retinol, the wrinkle and fine line serum prevents skin sagging by stimulating the synthesis of collagen and elastin. As retinol is photosensitive, it is preferably applied in the evening, on clean and dry skin, before your night cream. Its use is not recommended for sensitive and atopic skin.
The firming face cream has a lower retinol concentration (0.2%) than the serum. We still advise applying it preferably in the evening and not using it if you have sensitive skin. It contains another tightening active ingredient, tsubaki oil. It combats the appearance of wrinkles and makes the skin more plump.
The neck and décolletage serum contains 0.2% retinol and borage oil, known for its firming properties. This targeted treatment helps to firm the skin of the neck and décolletage. It is particularly suited for treating the early signs of skin sagging. We advise against its use on sensitive and reactive skin. It should be applied in the evening, to avoid any skin reaction with sun exposure.
The Firming Tonic Lotion contains 0.1% retinol and Damask rose extract. It is applied after skin cleansing, to rebalance the skin's pH and delay the appearance of wrinkles. It is composed of 99% natural origin ingredients.
Thewrinkle and blemish serum combines the densifying action of retinol (0.3%) with the anti-bacterial action of bakuchiol (1%) to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and correct blemishes. Synthesised by endemic Australian plants, the plant polypeptides it contains are capable of working in synergy with retinol topromote the synthesis of type I collagen. They thus help to reduce the depth of wrinkles and densify the skin. These peptides also contribute to maintaining a thick epidermis, which plays its role as a shield against the external environment.
Sources:
QUAN T. & al. Molecular basis of retinol anti-ageing properties in naturally aged human skin in vivo. International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2017).
MONTE-ALTO-COSTA A. & al. Topical retinol attenuates stress-induced ageing signs in human skin ex vivo, throughEGFR activation viaEGF, but notERK andAP-1 activation, Experimental Dermatology (2019).
OPINION ON Vitamin A (Retinol, Retinyl Acetate, Retinyl Palmitate), Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety SCCS, (2016).
KYU HAN K. & al. The additive effects of minoxidil and retinol on human hair growth in vitro. Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin (2007).
TOSTI A. & al. The role of vitamins and minerals in hair loss: a review. Dermatology and Therapy (2019).
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