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Skin experts have revealed the six most common mistakes Australians make when it comes to using the go-to anti-ageing ingredient retinal.
Sydney’s Dr Yalda Jamali explained how to use retinoids “correctly” to reduce the appearance of unwanted wrinkles and fine lines.
Dr Jamali, who uses Medic8 Crystal Retinal products in her own skincare routine, told FEMAIL that most people either use too much retinal or make the mistake of applying it first thing in the morning.
“UV light will inactivate the product, so you should use a pea-sized amount at night,” she said.
For beauty buffs new to retinals (short for retinaldehyde, a form of vitamin A), Dr Jamali recommends starting with Medic8 Crystal Retinal 3, applying it two to three times a week, followed by a moisturizer.
The brand describes the product as “the next generation of Vitamin A” that’s proven to work 11 times faster than standard retinol.
Dr. Jamali added that age will determine how often Retinal should be used, and that continued use is required to see results.
He also said that most people don’t moisturise enough and use harsh exfoliating acids, which can worsen the skin barrier.
Doctors say some people stop using Retinal early because they’re worried about dryness.
Dr Yalda Jamali (pictured) explained how to use retinal ‘correctly’ to reduce the appearance of unwanted wrinkles and fine lines.
Speaking to FEMAIL, Dr Jamali said most people use too much or apply a pea-sized amount first thing in the morning when they should only use a pea-sized amount at night.
Where should Retinal be used and what areas should be avoided?
Beauty enthusiasts should start by applying Retinal all over their face, says Dr Jamali.
However, if your skin can tolerate the product, you can add a small amount under the eyes and on the neck.
“The skin around the eyes and neck is very delicate and thin, so be sure to apply moisturizer before and after,” Dr Jamali advised.
“If it gets too dry, stop.”
She likes Medik8’s products because they’re “effective, minimally irritating, and come in five strength levels to suit different skin types.”
Medik8 has three products specifically for under the eyes, with Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye coming in sizes three, six and ten.
The product is the world’s first commercially available clinical strength retinal for under-eye use, and with three graduated strength retinals, customers can titrate their strength up to the highest prescription.
“Regular use is key! Even twice a week over a long period of time can be effective. The slower and less intense your use, the longer it will take to see results. It takes 8-10 weeks for Retinal to take effect,” says Dr Jamali.
How often should Retinal be applied and at what age should it start?
Younger skin doesn’t need retinal, so you shouldn’t start incorporating it into your skincare routine until you’re in your 20s, but once you do, Dr. Jamali recommends using it regularly for best results.
“Even just twice a week over a long period of time can be effective,” Dr Jamali says.
“The smaller the volume you inject and the slower it is, the longer it will take to see results. It takes 8-10 weeks to see results with retinal.”
What is the difference between retinol and retinal?
The Medik8 website explains that retinol and retinal are both forms of vitamin A that belong to the retinoid family.
Retinoids stimulate skin cell renewal and boost collagen production to enhance skin’s radiance, tone and texture.
However, retinal acts faster on the skin than retinol and is less irritating to the skin.
It also “degrades quickly and is very difficult to stabilize,” making it hard to find a product that will give you a noticeable effect.
The brand’s award-winning Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye Cream is the world’s first over-the-counter clinical strength retinal for under-eye use and is a fan-favorite for its anti-aging formula.
Founded out of a shed in 2009 by British “chemical brothers” Elliot and Daniel Isaacs, Medik8 has grown into a global business with customers claiming to have seen results after just one use.
On the Medik8 website, the Crystal Retinal product line boasts over 1,800 five-star reviews from satisfied customers, many of whom describe it as a “game-changing product.”
“I’m so happy with the results, it feels and smells amazing. I use it every night along with Advanced Night Restore,” one commenter said.
“This product has made such a difference to the texture and look of my skin. It’s so smooth and non-greasy and I’m so pleased with the finish,” added another.
Daniel, head of research and chief product officer at Medik8, previously told FEMAIL: “[Vitamin A]can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and increase cell turnover for a visibly brighter, fresher, more youthful looking complexion.”
“It also helps reduce the appearance of blemishes and promotes and maintains overall healthy looking skin.”
