Can We Slow Aging Skin?
The skin is a complex organ that depends on collagen, keratin, and lots of hydration to remain firm, elastic, and supple. Furthermore, the epidermis is constantly shedding old skin cells and regenerating new ones. With age, however, collagen production, elastin, and skin cell turnover slow down roughly 1% yearly. This change gives the skin a thinner, crepey appearance, increasing wrinkles. Exposure to external elements like sunlight, cigarette smoke, and air pollution speeds up this process. The result is hyperpigmentation, deep wrinkles, acne, and more, giving a much older appearance. Can retinol and niacinamide help?
What can we do about it?
Who doesn’t want smooth, firm, dewy skin? There’s no way to avoid genetics or the natural process of aging. However, there are ways to slow cell turnover, avoid environmental damage, and smooth skin. For instance, staying hydrated, eating well, and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 30 or more can help. What’s more crucial at this stage is a proper skincare routine. An ideal skincare routine contains dermatologist-recommended products like cleansers, serums, and moisturizers. In addition, a routine should include retinol and niacinamide, 2 of the best vitamins for skin health and appearance.
The power of A
Vitamin A is a group of compounds found in foods that the human body needs for optimal health. Over time, scientists separated retinol, a vitamin A derivative, for skincare purposes. Today, retinol is an ingredient in creams, serums, lotions, and ointments. Retinol works by speeding up cell turnover to reveal fresher, smoother levels of the skin. This vitamin also goes to the dermis to promote collagen and elastin production. Since retinol speeds up cell turnover, it can lead to improved hyperpigmentation, reduced acne and even fewer wrinkles.
Retinol dos and don’ts
Retinols come in over-the-counter creams, serums, and lotions. Use retinol in a serum, cream, or lotion right after cleaning the face with a gentle cleaner. The strength of retinol is vital as people with sensitive skin can experience redness and flaking. Most products contain 1% retinol or less, which is enough to see results after a few months of consistent use. Retinol must be used with sunscreen as this product can increase the chances of sun damage. Therefore, most dermatologists recommend retinol use before bed. Retinol is often used interchangeably with retinoids. This is a stronger, prescription form of retinol that comes in topical or pill form. Retinoids help treat cystic acne, psoriasis, and other severe skin conditions.
B gone, aging skin
The B vitamins support the body in hundreds of processes daily. Vitamin B3, or niacin, is one such vitamin that helps maintain brain, kidney, cholesterol, and skin health. Niacinamide is a form of B3 that’s excellent for skin health. This compound is also popular in skincare products and has fantastic benefits for skin conditions. Niacinamide is an antioxidant that fights against the oxidative stress that the skin faces daily. Additionally, niacinamide helps produce new skin cells and is anti-inflammatory, essential for treating acne and hyperpigmentation. Studies show that products with niacinamide reduced wrinkles, prevented excess water loss, and improved elasticity.
Serums, creams, and more
Niacinamide is a popular ingredient in serums, eye creams, face masks, and lotions. Apply the product as directed, particularly before a moisturizer, to lock in the benefits. Most over-the-counter products contain 5-10% niacinamide, which is safe to use. Niacinamide may come in multiple forms, and most skin types respond well to the product. Unlike retinol, which should be used a few times weekly, niacinamide can be used daily. Both retinol and niacinamide can be used together in a skincare routine.
Love the skin you’re in
Young people tend to have smooth, blemish-free skin. With age, however, cell turnover slows down, making the skin appear dull. The added wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and acne give an appearance on the outside that doesn’t match the inside. Retinol and niacinamide are proven skincare ingredients that can help improve the look and feel of the skin. These products often form part of a dermatologist-recommended routine, especially for fighting acne and other blemishes. In some cases, niacinamide can be compounded with a prescription retinoid. Spending some extra time daily with these products can be a game-changer.
