What is retinol, and how does it work on the skin?
Most of us have heard of Retinol, but it can become confusing when other Vitamin A derivatives are promoted in a product. Retinol is a retinoid, and retinoids are derivatives of the Vitamin A family. Some are stronger and more potent in their impact on the skin, and typically the stronger the form, the more potential for irritation it has. Retinoic Acid is the strongest form and drives the positive changes we see in the skin; however, this is only available on prescription and is highly irritating.
What’s important to note is the weaker derivatives, when applied to the skin, convert to Retinoic Acid and deliver the same benefits over a longer period of time. The closest type to Retinoic Acid is Retinaldehyde (Retinal), followed by Retinol, then retinol esters (such as retinyl palmitate) being the weakest. The weaker the type, the more tolerated they are, but the longer it takes to see results. There is also Granactive Retinol (HPR), a new-generation retinoid which acts directly in the skin and does not go through the conversion steps. This sits between Retinol and Retinal in terms of strength but is very well tolerated. When it comes to deciding which type is best for you, the key is to start with a milder formula and build it into your routine gradually. But it doesn’t need to be overly complicated. There are many products with different strengths, which can make it hard to choose. Dermalogica takes that confusion away and takes a skin health-first approach to transforming the look of skin for real results made easy with no compromise to the all important skin barrier with a well-tolerated, fast acting formula suitable for most skins.
What makes up the 3.5% retinoid complex in Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum?
Many people get hung up on the percentages in a formula, but that’s not the only indicator of efficacy and results. We’ve formulated our latest Retinol serum with multiple types of retinoids to deliver fast results without compromising skin health. The 3.5% retinoid complex is made up of; Pure Retinol, encapsulated, time-released Retinol, Granactive Retinol, plus a booster to increase the efficacy of the retinoids further. By formulating with different types of retinoids that work at different speeds and depths, gives us well-tolerated and quick results. We’ve also included concentrated Squalane and soothing Beta-Glucan to improve hydration and reduce the irritation commonly associated with retinoid use.
