How Much Do You Know About Retinol?

With endless products on the market claiming to prevent and minimize your facial lines and wrinkles, it can be difficult to decide which ones to try (and place your trust in). That said, it would be hard to find a skincare professional who wouldn’t have great things to say about retinol. It’s one of the few ingredients on the market that has been proven to actually work! And not only can it fight aging skin, but it can also help clear up pesky acne.

That said, you wouldn’t want to put it it to your skin without being educated as to how to apply it, how often, or if you have a skin condition that wouldn’t agree with it. People who suffer from psoriasis, eczema, and rosacea, for example, would not be good candidates. Retinol could lead to further inflammation and worsen symptoms. You also would not want to mix benzoyl peroxide, AHA’s, or BHA’s with retinoids, as this can compromise your skin and cause irritation.

What does retinol do?

Retinol exfoliates, helps produce collagen, and fights against free radicals. There is a myth that it makes your skin thinner, but it actually makes skin thicker, increasing cell turnover and collagen production. This results in more youthful-looking skin.

When should it be applied?

Retinol should be applied before bed, after you cleanse your face. It actually breaks down in sunlight, which is why you’ll notice that retinol products come in opaque packaging. Retinol can also make you more sensitive to the sun, which is why it is crucial to wear sunscreen daily. You’ll also want to apply a moisturizer after to seal it in and keep your skin more hydrated. Ideally, you would wait about half an hour before applying the moisturizer on top.

How much do I need to use?

A pea-sized amount is adequate. Think “less is more”.

How often should I use it?

To begin with, you may only want to use it once or twice a week at the most, as your skin will have to get used to it and develop a tolerance. Too much at once, and you’ll experience a lot of redness and flaking. There is also research which suggests that cell turnover in no longer increased after three months of retinol usage, so it is recommended to use for three months, then take a three month break. Ideally, you would time it so that your three month break is over the summer months.

What is the difference between Retinol, Retin-A, and Retinoid?

  • Retin-A is a prescription level retinoid, stronger in nature, that is used for acne as well as anti-aging.
  • Retinol is the over-the-counter version of Retin-A, which becomes the active Retinoic Acid when it is applied to the skin.
  • Retinoids are the family that Retin-A, Retinol & Retinoic Acid belong to. A chemical compound of Vitamin A.

How do I know which product to buy?

Medical-grade products are recommended. Consult with a skincare representative or a dermatologist if you have any questions about retinol and your skin type. They’ll also be able to explain the differences between brands. It is also a good idea to Google different products and check out the reviews from verified buyers. It’s important to note that just because a product has retinol, not all products are created equal.

Do you have more questions about retinol and your skin care? We can help! Give us a call at New England Oral & Cosmetic Facial Surgery, located in Surrey, BC: 604-507-0514.

 

 

Cheek Implants: The Permanent Solution for Instant Cheekbones

Many people desire to have high, prominent cheekbones, as they are considered by society to be a very aesthetically appealing feature. Some people naturally have higher cheekbones than others. Also, as people age, volume in that area often decreases. One way of adding volume back into the cheek area is through temporary facial fillers such as Juvederm. The permanent option would be with cheek augmentation.

If you are feeling somewhat hesitant or nervous about going ahead with this type of procedure, it would be a great idea to first start with Juvederm as a temporary option. This can give you the reassurance that you are making the right decision, that you like the look, and also a better idea as to the look you want. This can also make it easier for you to communicate your desired effects with your doctor, as well as also make the end result easier to adapt to because you would already be used to seeing yourself with cheek fillers.

Cheek augmentation consists of cheek implants being inserted into the face. There are many different sizes and shapes of cheek implants, as everyone has a different face and desired look. Some people want a very dramatic look, and some people may want a more subtle look. The end result also varies from person to person, depending on their current cheek volume and face shape prior to surgery.

You should consider cheek enhancement surgery if you:

  • Want a permanent solution for higher, fuller, more prominent cheeks
  • Want to improve your facial contour
  • Want to have a more balanced face with better proportion
  • Are interested in correcting face asymmetry or facial trauma
  • Wish to look more youthful and fresh
  • Feel that it would increase your confidence and self-esteem
  • Want a procedure with very low post-surgical risks

Call us to book a consultation for cheek implants today! At your consultation, Dr. K. Bahi will discuss your goals with you and explain what you can expect from this procedure. You may also want to bring images with you, which are reflective of the look you want to make it easier to communicate your desired result.