Ok we have yet another powerhouse of an ingredient coming at you (and, I’m sure you’re familiar with it even if you haven’t tried it yet…) and that is Vitamin A!
From combating acne to diminishing fine lines and wrinkles, Vitamin A, in various forms such as prescription retinoids and non-prescription options like Leah Lani Aqua A Serum, Sanitas RejuvenA, and Intelligent Elixirs Botanical A Night Serum, offers a plethora of benefits. But did you know a stronger percentage doesn’t equate faster results, or make it “better for you.”
Often times folks will always ask what percent an active is in a formulation. (I love that you want to know these things during a skin consult!) However, vitamin A is a bit different than your hyaluronic acid or niacinamide for example. We are essentially training the skin to encourage a healthier cell turnover rate than our genetic code is telling it. This is why we need to slowly introduce this ingredient into your routine as your skin gets acclimated. LESS IS MORE! And, I will repeat this as we continue on about it. You only need a pea sized amount for your entire face.
Since vitamin A is working hard to increase your cell turnover, we need to do this at a controlled rate to avoid any of the not so desirable side effects. I think it’s also one of the reasons folks are quick to judge whether or not it’s working for them or if they want to discontinue all together because their skin is looking red, angry, and super dry.
Vitamin A is like fine wine.. and over time it gets better. This is why we need to stay consistent with our application at a rate that works best for our skin’s microbiome. This is KEY – hence why less is more yet again! If you’re seeing too many negative side effects, back down on your frequency of application.
Let’s delve deeper into the wonders of Vitamin A and how it can revolutionize your skincare routine.
Understanding Vitamin A: Vitamin A is a potent antioxidant that plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin. Its derivatives, including retinol, retinaldehyde, and retinoic acid (tretinoin), are widely recognized for their ability to promote skin renewal, stimulate collagen production, and combat the signs of aging.
The Benefits of Vitamin A in Skincare:
- Accelerates cellular turnover, encouraging the shedding of old, damaged skin cells and promoting the growth of new, healthy ones. This ultimately leads to smoother, more radiant skin texture over time.
- Vitamin A derivatives, particularly retinoids, are highly effective in treating acne by unclogging pores, reducing inflammation, and regulating oil production. They help prevent breakouts and minimize the appearance of acne scars. We love Intelligent Elixirs Botanical A Night Serum for this!
- Diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. By stimulating collagen synthesis and increasing skin firmness, retinoids help restore a youthful complexion.
- Aids in fading dark spots, sunspots, and hyperpigmentation, resulting in a more even skin tone. It inhibits melanin production and encourages the turnover of pigmented cells, revealing brighter, more luminous skin.
- Supports the skin’s natural moisture barrier, preventing water loss and enhancing hydration. This helps maintain optimal skin health and resilience, reducing sensitivity and irritation.
If you’ve tried prescription strength Tretinoin, Adapelene, or Tazorac for instance and didn’t have the best of luck.. this one is for you! Non-prescription options provide gentler alternatives for those with sensitive skin or seeking over-the-counter solutions. These products contain Vitamin A derivatives such as retinol or retinyl palmitate, offering milder yet effective results.
Our Top Picks from a Licensed Esthetician
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Leah Lani Aqua A Serum: Infused with retinol-rich botanicals, this serum promotes skin renewal while soothing and hydrating the skin, leaving it soft and supple.
Aqua A Retinoid Serum has a unique blend of ceramides to keep your barrier at it’s best while encouraging increased cell turnover - Sanitas RejuvenA: Formulated with encapsulated retinol, this serum delivers potent anti-aging benefits without causing irritation. It helps improve skin texture, tone, and clarity, revealing a youthful glow.
- Intelligent Elixirs Botanical A Night Serum: Combining a phyto form, or plant derived Vitamin A, this serum revitalizes the skin overnight, reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots for a rejuvenated complexion by morning. This is the perfect starting ground for anyone new to vitamin A, especially those with more sensitive skin.
We look forward to hearing which vitamin A products you’ve tried or want to try! Take our skin care quiz or send us an email at [email protected].
Until next time!
Melissa, LE
**As always, we recommend consulting with your physician or esthetician when starting something new in your routine. Vitamin A is not recommended for those who are pregnant, looking to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Please consult with your physician for the best alternative options for you!**
