Retinol Cream FAQ

Q: What are Retinol creams, and what do they do?

Retinol creams are skincare products characterized by their ability to reduce or even erase signs of aging. Environmental stress can play a significant role in increasing the amount of lines, wrinkles and pigmentation on our skin. Retinol boosts collagen production for more elasticity while also acting as an antioxidant protecting our skin from damage caused by oxidative stress.

Retinol creams should ideally be incorporated into your beauty routine in your late 20s. The sooner you start using anti-aging and anti-wrinkle skin care products before the age of 30, the better and the less likely you are to develop wrinkles and fine lines.

Q: Are all Retinol creams effective?

Unfortunately, no. Many fly-by-night companies just ride these skincare trends, manufacturing inferior products with the wrong ingredients and proportions. Even worse, they often use synthetic compounds and dangerous chemicals which can irritate the skin and cause cellular damage.

Q: What should I look for?

• It must contain a safe standardization of 1% Retinol to be effective without causing damage to the skin. (Beware of products with higher levels as they can cause permanent skin damage).
• It must contain supporting active ingredients for optimal skin care: 5% Soluble Collagen (preferably marine) and 5% Moisturizing Hyaluronic acid to boost the positive effects of Retinol.
• It must contain an ingredient that increases moisturization and contains anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties, such as Jojoba Oil.
• It must contain the optimal standardization of ingredients that are backed by clinical studies.
• It must have a high percentage of active ingredients (the higher the better).
• It must not contain AHA (Alpha Hydroxy acid), parabens, GMOs, artificial fragrances, hormones or phthalates.
• It should not be tested on animals.
• It should come with a confident money-back guarantee.

Q: What about safety? Are there side effects to watch out for?

Make sure your Retinol cream does not have any added AHA (Alpha Hydroxy acid), parabens, GMOs, artificial fragrances, hormones or phthalates. Not only can they irritate your skin, but they can cause long-term cellular damage. If you are unsure of the safety of your Retinol cream, consult with an AMA approved dermatologist.

Q: What is the correct way to apply a Retinol cream?

Dot small amounts of cream around a cleansed, dry face and gently apply in an upward and outward motion. The majority of Retinol creams should be applied at night time but many also offer formulas that are suitable for day time use. If you use Retinol creams during the day, be sure to apply sunscreen. Read the label.

Q: How long will it take to see the effects?

The quality of your anti-aging, anti-wrinkle, rejuvenating Retinol cream will determine how quickly you see results. For high-quality products, you can expect to see a difference instantly.

Q: How much do Retinol cream products cost?

The cost of Retinol creams varies based on the manufacturer. Many of them are worthless, just random companies with cheap quality products trying to cash in on the latest skincare trends. Some brands focus more on their labels and packaging rather than on the actual products. Thus, creating low-end products, counting on the fact that most people won't read the labels or do their research. Buying a Retinol cream for hundreds of dollars won't guarantee a high-quality product, and purchasing something from a drugstore may also be nothing more than lotion. Research a range of high-end and low-end brands before spending your money.