Retinol Cream: Can it Make You Look Younger?
Retinol cream is emerging as a great skin care product. While it has often been used to treat acne, many people are also claiming it eliminates the effects of aging. Can retinol cream really make you look younger?
Retinol cream is a form of Vitamin A, a fat-soluble vitamin found in fish oils, liver and other animal products. Manufactured forms are also available and may be known as retinoids, tritonin and retinyl palimitate. It is similar to Retin-A, a well-known brand name of the acid form of retinol, and has been shown to stimulate cell growth. It is also an anti-oxidant, neutralizing free radicals that can lead to cancer.
Many people prefer retinol to other moisturizers because it can pass through the upper layers of skin and help stimulate the production of elastin and collagen, two proteins that contribute to skin flexibility and rigidity. While the body produces these proteins, production lessens as we age, leading to the appearance of lines and wrinkles. By using retinol creams regularly, it is possible to see improvement in as little as three months.
Because it is so effective, people with sensitive skin should be careful when using retinol. Start by using a product with a small amount of retinol and use only a small amount of it, until you see how your skin reacts. Retinol can be drying, resulting in flaky skin. (Pregnant women should not use retinol as it is known to cause birth defects.) Also, apply retinol at night because sunlight can make these creams less effective.
Retinol creams are available over the counter and by prescription. Of course, prescription strength formulas are stronger. No matter which form you use, be sure to follow directions carefully to avoid skin irritation. Look for products that also contain glycolic acid, hydroxyl acid and/or Vitamin C as these are known to make retinol cream more effective. Wear sunscreen whenever you use retinol cream as it has been proven to increase skin sensitivity.
So, how does retinol help you to look younger? It helps in many ways. First, it helps stimulate cell renewal, so you will look young longer. Second, it helps tighten skin, helping to reduce wrinkles and the size of pores. Third, it helps make skin softer.
In addition to acne, wrinkles and fine lines, these products have been shown to help in the treatment of acne scars, dermatitis, rosacea and warts.
People who want to reduce their wrinkles and prevent additional signs of aging can follow several other common-sense healthy steps in addition to using these creams: Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables and avoid junk food. Drink at least eight glasses of water each day to flush out toxins. Sleep at least six to eight hours every night and avoid tobacco products and alcohol, both of which can affect the skin.
Consider adding stress relief measures, such as exercise, prayer, meditation and yoga to prevent worry lines and frowns. Always wear a sunscreen and moisturize and exfoliate your skin regularly.
Although retinol creams tend to be more expensive than other skin care products, the cost is worth it because they have proven truly effective in making skin look younger and better.
