Retinol - Does it work?

During my pregnancy I was very skeptical about what creams and ingredients I put on my face & body. I wasn't sure what would be safe, what would seep into my skin and go into my bloodstream (which would then come in contact with the baby), etc. so I chose to put a halt to my usual skincare routine and just use a natural ingredient moisturizer.

Since I neglected my skin for nine months plus, it suffered greatly. It became dull, dry, fine lines started appearing more and more around my eyes, & my pores became more visible. My skin was ageing faster than I definitely wanted.

After having a lengthy discussion about my skin with one of my skin-obsessed friends (which I am thankful for her advice & knowledge), she said I needed to try retinol. So that is exactly what I did. Amen to that, because it helped !

What is retinol you ask?

"Retinol can increase skin cell turnover and stimulate collagen production." Thank you google for that explanation.

Retinol will help your skin reduce the appearance of fine lines, and wrinkles, as well as sun spots, hyperpigmentation, and the appearance of pores. However, if you do choose to try it, you do need to be careful when you first start using it. It can cause your skin to peel, turn red, and become dry at first.

I started slowly using Shani Darden Skincare's Retinol Reform, by only applying a thin layer in certain areas at a time each night to make sure my skin wouldn't react negatively.

I have now been using it for almost three months nightly, and it has made a world of a difference for my skin! You can use this product in the morning as well, however, I am also using Hyaluronic Acid in the morning so I do not use Retinol at the same time as that.

Make sure you get to know your acids, and when you can use them together, or not, before you try different skin care regimes.

The Shani Darden Retinol Reform details from the Sephora website:

"Skincare Concerns: Dark Spots, Fine Lines and Wrinkles, and Acne and Blemishes

Formulation: Lightweight Serum

Highlighted Ingredients:

- Encapsulated Retinol 2.2%: Supports natural collagen and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, dark spots, acne scars, and uneven texture.

- Lactic Acid 2%: Exfoliates for smoother, brighter skin.

- Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract: Helps reduce visibly signs of aging and provides antioxidant protection for healthier-looking skin.

Ingredient Callouts: Free of sulfates SLS and SLES, parabens, formaldehydes, formaldehyde-releasing agents, phthalates, mineral oil, retinyl palmitate, oxybenzone, coal tar, hydroquinone, triclosan, and triclocarban, and contains less than one percent of synthetic fragrances. This product is also vegan, cruelty-free, and comes in recyclable packaging.

What Else You Need to Know: This effective yet gentle retinol formula provides skin benefits without the dryness and irritation often experienced with other retinol products. It also contains lactic acid, which helps to brighten and smooth skin. This product is oil-free."

I am loving the ingredient callouts, which means they are not using them! It is such a great product, and I definitely recommend it!

A good skincare regime & hydration will definitely help with getting your glow back!

xoxo

Ps. This is not a sponsored post.

Always consult your doctor if you are preganant/breastfeeding, and want to use a new product. I was advised personally not to use products with Vitamin A.