Retinol: Is It A Natural Ingredient? What Are The Benefits For Our Skin?

I am running a few blogs on different ingredients that are circling around in the skincare industry and I think there are lots of you out there who are confused as to which you should use, what are the benefits, are they natural and why are there so many products out there with the "latest" and "new breakthrough" ingredient?

I hope I can take some of the confusion out of all this by running through the benefits of each ingredient and then you can decide whether you want to incorporate it into your skincare routine or not.

Even as a formulator, like myself, a lot of research has to go into which ingredients I choose for my company and products. I want to ensure that my products are natural and without harmful synthetics and therefore, have to do the research of how I could still have an ingredient in my product line but the natural way.

So let's jump in and educate!

Is Retinol good for the skin?

Yes, retinol is generally considered to be beneficial for the skin. It is a derivative of vitamin A and has been extensively studied for its potential skincare benefits. Here are some reasons why retinol is often recommended:

1. Stimulates collagen production: Retinol can help stimulate the production of collagen, a protein that provides structure and firmness to the skin. This can lead to improved skin texture and reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

2. Enhances skin cell turnover: Retinol promotes the turnover of skin cells, which means that it helps to shed dead skin cells and promote the growth of new cells. This can result in smoother, more even-toned skin.

3. Improves acne: Retinol has been shown to be effective in treating acne by reducing the production of sebum (oil) in the skin and preventing clogged pores. It can also help to fade acne scars and hyperpigmentation.

4. Increases skin thickness: Retinol has been found to increase the thickness of the epidermis (the outermost layer of the skin), which can make the skin more resilient and less prone to damage.

5. Evens out skin tone: Retinol can help to fade dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and sun damage, leading to a more even complexion.

While retinol has many potential benefits, it is important to note that it can cause skin sensitivity, redness, and flaking, especially when first starting to use it. It is recommended to introduce retinol gradually into your skincare routine and to use it in conjunction with a moisturizer and sunscreen. It's also a good idea to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional before starting any new skincare product or ingredient, especially if it is not of a natural nature.

Is Retinol considered natural?

Retinol itself is not a natural ingredient, as it is a synthesized form of vitamin A. However, vitamin A is found naturally in various foods such as liver, eggs, and dairy products. (which are ingredients we do not usually want to put into our skincare products), Some skincare products may also include natural sources of vitamin A, such as rosehip seed oil or carrot seed oil, which contain other forms of vitamin A like beta-carotene. These natural sources of vitamin A can be converted by the body into retinol. There are suppliers who also sell vitamin A in liquid form included with various other vitamins which are all naturally derived. Making this easy to incorporate them into your formulations.

It's important to note that when we refer to retinol in skincare, we usually mean the synthetic form of vitamin A. This form has been extensively studied and formulated to be more stable and effective for topical use in skincare products.

If you prefer using natural skincare products, you can look for alternatives to retinol that contain natural sources of vitamin A. These alternatives are often referred to as "plant-based retinols" or "retinol alternatives" and may include ingredients like bakuchiol, rosehip oil, or moth bean extract. While these alternatives may not have the same level of scientific research and proven efficacy as retinol, some studies suggest that they can provide similar benefits for the skin.

Ultimately, whether you choose to use retinol or natural alternatives is a personal preference. It's important to assess your skin's needs and consult with a dermatologist (if you go the synthetic route) to determine the best approach for your specific skin concerns.