I have yet to meet a retinol I didn't like, but I had never met one that I completely LOVED either. That was until I bought the Activ Retinol 1.0 from Dermaceutic. What makes it so amazing you ask? Before I start, let's talk about retinol as a whole first.
What is Dermaceutic Active Retinol 1.0
It's an extra-strength, anti-ageing serum that reduces the appearance of advanced photo-damage. It reduces fine lines and deep wrinkles, and pigmentation, all whilst improving dull and dehydrated complexion. It improves uneven skin tone and texture and increases skin radiance. This is the perfect product for mature and sun-damaged skin.
What does it contain?
The key ingredient is obviously Retinol 1.0%. It also contains pure Vitamins C and E, which combats the signs of photo aging. A blend of Ceramides, Panthenol and Allantoin that helps to reinforce the skin barrier and intensely hydrate and protect the skin. It is completely Paraben and fragrance-free.
What are the benefits?
Preaching as the converted, I could ramble on and on. But the short and sweet of it is, anti-ageing. From reading tons of expert articles about what the benefits are and what it actually does.
I'll write it so every one can understand it. Retinol, literally sloughs away dead skin cells. That would explain why you get that flakiness when you use it.
Other benefits include decrease pigmentation and improve overall skin texture and radiance. Another plus is an improvement in scarring and fine lines and wrinkles. Retin-A is often the drug of choice for acne patients, delivering fabulous results. It is a very strong ingredient, and therefore, should therefore be used cautiously.
Where do I start you ask?
I use medical grade skincare brands, and would say, to be cautious at first. If you are not a seasoned retinol user like me, with skin like a rhino. Yip you heard me. My skin seems resilient to everything except the sun, I suggest you start with 0,5% and use it once a week. Also I am no skin tech, this is just what works for me, so get some professional advice. Have someone assess your skin, and advise you accordingly.
How do I use it?
I use it twice a week at night on a clean skin. I apply it after my moisturiser, I know some recommend it before the moisturiser, but I found it works better for me this way. I apply it everywhere except the eye area. And double up on the SPF the day after. I find my skin extra sensitive especially if it's flaky. And word of advice, don't make the rookie error, of applying retinol after doing a microdermabrasion exfoliation. The two together do not go like birds and a feather.
What changes will you see?
It will differ from person to person, depending on your skin. For me, I experienced tightness and redness the first time I used retinol about three years ago. I still get that reaction when I visit my aesthetician for a Retinol peel.
But as a seasoned user, I hardly get any real 'side-effects'. And with the Dermaceutic's I used it every second night and it was only after three weeks in that I had some real prominent flaking. I did have immediate clarity of my skin though, and so many questions on the gram about what I am doing to get my skin to look so amazing. Cats out the bag now, I guess.
What I do absolutely love about retinol, and this one in particular, is the spot treatment effect. I use it when I see that zit rearing it's ugly head and then I zap it with a quick bit of retinol. And just like magic, it's gone tomorrow. Oh where was this in my teenage years.
You too can have gorgeous pigment free, radiant skin with Dermaceutic's. I got mine from my go to online store Dermastore.
How much does it cost?
The Dermaceutic Activ Retinol 0.5 - R 1130.00 and The Dermaceutic Activ Retinol 1.0 - R1360.00
* Do not use if pregnant or breast-feeding and not on sensitive or rosacea-prone skins.
* All products have been purchased by me.