Retinol a.k.a Vitamin A is no doubt one of the most hyped skincare ingredients of the 21st century.

Discussions about Retinol are high on rotation, with many people trialling and testing yet still, it’s the one ingredient we all need to understand a little more. Naturally, in an effort to educate our skin-obsessed selves we spoke to Cosmetic Chemist and Founder of Synergie Skin, Terri Vinson along with Award-Winning Dermatologist, Dr Shyamalar Gunatheeson on why Retinol lives up to its hype.

What is Retinol?

Contrary to what you may believe, Retinol isn’t new and has been formulated into cosmetics since the early ’80s. It’s a highly active skincare ingredient that is “A precursor to Retinoic Acid, the active form of Vitamin A that binds to retinoid receptors in our skin,” informs Dr Gunatheeson.

Self-confessed science nerd, Terri Vinson tells us that “It’s a very small molecule that can penetrate to the deeper layers of the skin relatively easily, and one of the most effective and widely used forms of Vitamin A.”

How Does It Work?

Retinol converts into Retinoic Acid, (the stuff that targets your skin) to encourage your skins cell turnover, increase collagen and elastin production as well as improving skin luminosity.

“I consider retinol as a ‘super-regulator’ of our skin, working on multiple levels” – Terri Vinson.

Skin benefits:

• Reduces visible sun damage and uneven skin pigmentation
• Stimulates healthy blood vessels = “Nutrients will reach our skin cells more effectively and the toxins will be more efficiently removed,” explains Terri Vinson
• Restores thickness of the deep dermal skin tissue = firmer skin and fewer wrinkles
• Stimulates collagen production
• Reverse cell damage from UV exposure

• Regulates sebum levels helping in the management of acne and oily skin.

What Skin Type Is It Best Suited To?

“Retinols are not as irritating as Retinoic Acid so all skin types should be amenable to its effects without too much grief,: tells Dr Shyamalar Gunatheeson

The most sensitive skin sufferers can benefit from a stabilised Retinol.

Even those who suffer from eczema, while you should be careful and avoid applying Retinoids on active eczema or inflammation, a gentle form like Retinol or Retinol Esters can be beneficial “As it will help to slow down the over-production of skin cells, which is the major symptom of this skin disorder, making the skin flake shed at a much greater rate,” explains Terri Vinson.

CAUTION: Do not use if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

While topical Vitamin A hasn’t been testest on pregnant women, it is known that ingesting a high level of Vitamin A is dangerous to unborn babies. So it’s best to stay clear until more research has been carried out.