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Writer's pictureIrish Beauty Fairy

Let’s talk retinoids!

Another FAQ I get is about retinol (their collective name is retinoids.)There’s 4 types.


1) Beginners should always start with retinyl palmitate, retinyl acetate or linoleate. 3 conversions are required, there’s little to no irritation, but you’ll get the least visible results. Examples include @skingredients @superfacialistireland @metodayireland


2) Retinol is the most common OTC offering. 2 conversions are required, there’s potential for irritation depending on the formula but you’ll achieve more visible results. Examples include @no7uk @alphahskincare retinol, @neostrataire @theinkeylist @skinician @imageskincareireland @itcosmeticsuki @larocheposay @paulaschoiceuk & @ultraceuticals_ire


3) Retinaldehyde - only 1 conversion is required, very little irritation, it’s the most effective without needing a prescription retinoid & it gives faster, visible results. @officialmedik8 retinal is proven to give results akin to prescription strength with hardly any irritation by comparison. It’s also the only retinoid that has antibacterial properties & is a rising star in the skincare world.


4) Prescription retinoids such as Trentinoin, differin & retin A. There’s little to no conversion required as it’s retinol in its most active form. These give the most visible results but there’s a high potential for irritation.


Some people will only ever need 1) or 2) that’s as far as I’ve gone, as my skin is on the sensitive side & I don’t mind slower results if it means my all important skin barrier isn’t compromised!


USAGE

Apply once a week & work up to every 2nd night, depending on skins tolerance. Avoid under the eyes, around the lips & skin folds, these need to be slowly introduced & buffered with a moisturiser first to minimise irritation. After applying, wait 20 minutes, then moisturise. With the exception of retinyl palmitate don’t use with vitamin c or exfoliating acids.


BENEFITS

The holy grail for lines & wrinkles, it’s also great for acne, hyperpigmentation, pores, uneven texture & redness.


If you can’t tolerate, try bakuchiol or @loccitane_uk_ire immortelle serum which give similar results, but without any irritation & are suitable for pregnancy.

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