In our previous post, we highlighted retinol as a star ingredient for fall. Read about it here.
Although retinol has many wonderful skin benefits, it comes with some contraindications, meaning that not everyone can use it. This includes women who are pregnant, nursing or trying to conceive.
If you fall into this category or you simply cannot tolerate the ingredient, we want to offer you some alternatives and share a few tips on what you can use instead.
Alternative To Retinol
Vitamin C
Considered one of the most potent antioxidants for healthy skin, Vitamin C helps to stimulate collagen, firm the skin and can help you maintain a youthful glow. Vitamin C is also a skin brightener that helps to minimize excess melanin and can be used to treat hyper-pigmentation and post-inflammatory pigmentation.
The quality of the ingredients in a formula are very important when choosing a Vitamin C product. It's quite difficult to stabilize this ingredient and even harder to ensure that the product will perform as expected after it's been opened.
Vitamin C is completely safe for anyone. However, those with sensitive skin should start slowly and build up their tolerance level.
Recommended Products To Try:
Hydroxy Acids
Exfoliating with gentle acids is a great way to stimulate cell renewal and kickstart the skin’s regenerative process. For those who struggle with pigmentation or hormonal acne, hydroxy acids can be a great addition to their skincare routine and are a game-changer for many.
Acids such a lactic acid, malic acid and tartaric are gentle and safe. They can be used even during pregnancy. Other acids such a glycolic acid are more potent and can stimulate collagen and smooth fine lines and wrinkles.
Salicylic acid is a unique oil-soluble acid that can penetrate deep into the pores and dissolve dead skin cells and sebum.
Recommended Products To Try:
Bakuchiol
Bakuchiol is a trending ingredient that has been dubbed as a plant-derived alternative to retinol because it has similar effects. While it’s been shown to have a firming and tightening effect on the skin, it doesn't fully live up to retinol's extensive research and reputation.
However, if retinol is not an option, Bakuchiol is definitely one ingredient worth considering.
Recommended Products To Try:
Last But Not Least
Rosehip Oil
Pure Rosehip oil is an antioxidant powerhouse and a natural source of Vitamin A.
If retinol is not suitable for you, Rosehip oil can provide some of the healing and anti-aging benefits of Vitamin A and is ideal for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.
We recommend using a few drops at night on top of your serum or moisturizer, especially if your skin is dry or dull. It's also a fabulous massage medium.
Recommended Products To Try:
Whether or not you're able to use retinol in your skincare regimen, rest assured that you can still achieve beautiful, healthy skin and reach your skin goals with the right level of commitment and guidance. We're always here to answer any questions you may have!
Fall Skincare Goals & Products Video
Check out this video if you are looking to learn more about fall skin care and improve your understanding on what products to use to achieve your skincare goals.
