Retinoids
What is it
A special active form of vitamin A, which is responsible for the integrity of cells and accelerates the healing of the skin in various types of damage. There are several types of retinoids. Some of the most used in cosmetology are tretinoin (retinoic acid) and isotretinoin (the main component of an extremely aggressive acne drug).
Who are suitable
For the first time, the effectiveness of retinoids for the treatment of acne and acne was confirmed back in 1971. Thanks to their ability to penetrate directly into the skin, they act as a stimulant and allow the care products to work even more effectively. Also, this analogue of vitamin A triggers the processes of skin renewal, removes the stratum corneum and helps to restore the skin matrix, which becomes thinner due to exposure to the sun and time. Retinoids are suitable for aging skin (they have anti-aging properties) and are of course indispensable for those with oily skin or acne. They allow to normalize the work of the sebaceous glands, accelerate the renewal of the epidermis and its thickness.
But it must be borne in mind that retinoids are contraindicated during pregnancy and during breastfeeding, as well as for people with impaired kidney and liver function and other diseases. Before using, be sure to consult a doctor.
How to use
The safest retinoids are those that are intended for topical application. It is important to apply products with retinoids, like acids, strictly at night to well-cleansed skin before applying cream, lotion or serums. Sunscreen should be used in the morning, as retinoids thin the surface of the skin, which can cause pigmentation. By the way, this analogue of vitamin A accumulates well in the skin, so you should not use products with it every day. It is enough to apply serums and creams with retinoids 1-3 times a week, depending on the individual skin reaction to this active substance.
Peptides
What is it
A smaller and simpler form of protein - the main material of which cells are made. The peptides contain from 2 to 20 amino acids, which allows them to better interact with the skin.
Who are suitable
Peptides stimulate collagen production and restore lipid balance, therefore they are especially effective for the care of aging-prone skin. Also, this type of active substance strengthens the skin's immunity, increasing its resistance to bacteria, which is especially important for combating bacterial types of acne. Another property of peptides is that they are responsible for the production of melanin, therefore they are very effective for leveling the tone of the face.
How to use
One of the most effective methods is the introduction of peptide-based meso-cocktails. In addition to injectables, there are many cosmetics on the market with this form of protein. However, when choosing creams and serums with peptides, it is important to carefully study the composition, since many manufacturers use a small percentage of the active substance and place the word "peptides" on the packaging solely as a marketing ploy. Cosmetologists recommend products containing at least 25-30% peptides from the entire composition. For a lifting effect, experts recommend peptides 18, 171 and pentapeptide 3, and peptides G8, 173, 176 are suitable for improving complexion. Hyaluronic acid, vitamin complexes and oils in the composition also increase the effectiveness of the peptides.
Vitamin C
What is it
A powerful antioxidant, the effect of which, when applied on a surface, has not yet been fully understood due to its unstable form (it can lose its properties upon contact with water). At the same time, there are special types of vitamin C that are quite stable when interacting with water textures.
Who suits
Vitamin C primarily has a beneficial effect on complexion and tone, as it improves skin immunity and has lightening properties. It is also especially effective in healing wounds, burns and abrasions, which means it improves the condition of the skin after cleansing, peeling and hardware procedures. Vitamin C is also a powerful anti-inflammatory ingredient, so it can be safely added to treat breakout-prone skin.
How to use
As with other active substances, the rule works here: the higher the concentration of vitamin C in the product, the more effective it is. However, scientific tests state that the concentration of this element in serums of more than 5% causes the formation of crystals and darkening of the product itself. That is why real-life vitamin C skin products should brown over time, which confirms their effectiveness. Due to its rather high sunscreen and whitening properties, this ingredient is especially relevant for those who are faced with pigmentation. Vitamin C can also visibly transform your skin if you smoke regularly or are under stress.>