Beauty

The secret in your anti-wrinkle cream

Turning thirty is a thing. You know it, I know it. Not just because of that number, but somehow you think that from that moment on you are really officially an adult or should be and should do adult things and buy adult things. I saw the first lines appearing even before the big number, so yes, I had to face that too. And that's what I want to talk to you about. Because the question is: can you really get rid of those wrinkles with a cream? No, not completely, but you can counteract them. Do they really work? anti-wrinkle creams With the onset of skin aging – hooray, we’re turning thirty – creams with certain ingredients like glycolic acid, vitamin C, and retinol can absolutely make the skin look better. And I want to talk to you about the latter today. Because what is retinol and what does it do to the skin? Time for a lesson on vitamin A or retinol.

1. What does retinol do?

The use of vitamin A in a cream reduces wrinkle formation and roughness of the skin. Additionally, it increases the elasticity of the skin and reduces pigmentation. In other words: a miracle ingredient that is also called the ‘rejuvenating agent’. There are also people who use it as a recovery for skin that has been damaged by UV radiation.

2. How much do you apply?

Wrinkles do not diminish in one day. So don’t go hardcore applying a cream that contains retinol. It is very important to build this up properly to avoid redness, flaking, dry skin, and irritation.

3. How often do you apply?

Start with a low percentage of retinol and apply every other day. This way, your face can slowly get used to it. If your skin reacts well, you can start applying more often. Retinol is available in concentrations between 0.02 and 0.1%. What the right concentration is for you, you will have to find out yourself.

4. When do you apply?

Preferably use a cream with retinol in the evening on a cleansed and dry skin. It may be that your skin initially has difficulty retaining moisture. So expect a somewhat drier skin than you are used to. It is therefore extremely important to use a good moisturizer alongside your cream to keep your skin hydrated. And very importantly: good sun protection. Your skin is more sensitive and will therefore burn more easily.

5. When should you NOT apply it?

If you have a cosmetic allergy, very dry skin, or a skin condition, it is not wise to apply vitamin A acid. Pregnant? Then it’s better to leave the jar alone for a while.

6. When do you see results?

After two months you will already see a change, but after eight months the result will be optimal. At that point, you can also choose to taper off.

7. Last but not least: which one do I use?

I have recently been using the r-Retinoate Youth Activating Cream from Medik8. The Retinyl Retinoate is a combination of retinol and retinoic acid and is no less than eight times more effective than retinoic acid. You can use the cream during the day and it has no side effects. So go ahead and apply it. And this lovely cream doesn’t need more words. Here’s to a wrinkle-free face.