Retinol is truly one of the superstar ingredients of the skincare world. Imagine it as a sort of Super Nanny that can put manners on the most troublesome skin by placing it firmly on the naughty step until it behaves. I am not fond of the term “cell communicating ingredient” because I feel it is confusing to the majority of consumers and is just a fancy way of saying that an ingredient can help to make cells behave normally. However, retinol certainly has this communication method down to a fine art.
Retinol, a derivative of Vitamin A, is probably best known as an anti-ageing ingredient. It is an antioxidant and protects skin from free radical damage while stimulating collagen production, unclogging pores, smoothing skin texture and wrinkles and improving the ravages of sun damage such as sun spots and wrinkles. It is also a recognised treatment for acne and eczema.
Pure retinoid creams are extremely powerful and can only be prescribed by a dermatologist, while the creams available over the counter contain retinol, a much less potent version. On the plus side, this means they are far less likely to cause adverse reactions such as peeling, stinging and redness. Make sure you use lots of moisturiser, as your skin can get really dry and lizard-like with retinol use, and a hefty dose of sunscreen is also advisable, as it may become more sun-sensitive.
Good creams to try include Indeed Labs Retinol Skin Resurfacer Serum, which contains two types of retinol and feels nice and moisturising. Murad Time Release Retinol Concentrate for Deep Wrinkles is also moisturising, contains antioxidants and skin brighteners and is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive. I also like This Works No Wrinkles Night Repair (left), which is a moisturising serum containing cactus extracts along with retinol, to keep skin hydrated. For daytime use, RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Daily Moisturizer SPF 30 is a good buy.
If you want to try something stronger, SkinCeuticals Retinol 1.0 Maximum Strength Refining Night Cream with 1 per cent pure retinol is one to try. This is a strong blast of retinol, however, so be careful, as short-term reactions may occur. If they do, stop using the product for a while, or begin with a lower-strength formula (there are also 0.5 per cent and 0.3 per cent versions).
Tips and tricks: Two must-haves for less than €20
Eimear Hutchinson, who blogs at thetwodarlings.com: These are two inexpensive treats that will make a big difference to your make-up bag.
Sleek Blush by 3 in Lace from €12.99 from Boots.ie and pharmacies nationwide: This isn't the first time I've mentioned the fabulousness of this brand. The quality of the product, the "sleekness" of the packaging and the price points are simply spot on. The pigment with these blushes is excellent so you just need a touch, otherwise you could end up giving Bosco a run for his money. This 3-in-1 blush palette is all you need to keep your cheeks healthy and glowing. The two matte blushes in orange and pink are perfect for Irish complexions and the highlighter in the centre is somewhat reminiscent of the much lauded blusher Orgasm by Nars.
Mac Lipsticks, €19.50 at Brown Thomas: The longevity of these lipsticks, the 181 shades to choose from and the selection of finishes means you will find the ideal one for you. Russian Red with its blue undertones suits Irish skin. It's a great red for those a little tentative on the strong lip front. And if you bring back six empty containers to any MAC counter and you can get a free lipstick.
Email your beauty tips, tricks, must-haves, secrets, products of yore, more contemporary recommendations to beauty@irishtimes.com
amcdermott@irishtimes.com Twitter @aismcdermott
