When it comes to looking after your skin, dermatologists seem to agree that after sunscreen, adding a retinoid (derivative of Vitamin A) to your skin care routine is the top pick. We swear by Apothekari A is for Anti-Aging, our gentle but effective serum, formulated with retinaldehyde. However, we appreciate that sometimes using a vitamin A treatment may not be in your best interest.
Most non-prescription strength retinoids can be safely and effectively used by the majority of people, especially when incorporated gradually into a daily regimen. However, if you’ve taken all the right steps and still find yourself unable to tolerate the use of a retinoid, or if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant (retinoids are associated with birth defects and their use is not advised if you are pregnant or breast feeding), you’ll want to consider other alternatives without giving up the benefits of this skin care star.
Luckily, there are a number of ingredients to turn to with an equally tried-and-true history:
Vitamin C: When it comes to antioxidants, it’s hard not to think about vitamin C. Not only does it do a stellar job in fighting free radicals that can damage the skin, vitamin C also promotes collagen synthesis, restores elasticity and brightens overall skin tone. This little beauty works even better when paired up with vitamin E for a synergistically perfect duo. You’ll find them in Apothekari Bespoke Vitamin C Serums in 10% and 15% concentrations.
Peptides: Peptides are individual portions of proteins, which are composed of a long chain of amino acids. Just like retinoids, peptides work as cell communicators to encourage skin repair itself. Peptides also work to stimulate collagen production, improve elasticity and attract moisture to the skin. Maxtrixyl 3000, a combination of two peptides, can be found in Neostrata’s Anti-Aging Serum with Fruit Peptides. For those in the “know”, Preparation H Cream has long earned its reputation thanks to BioDyne, a protein fraction containing a mixture of several peptides that work to heal and counteract inflammation.
Glycolic acid: Although no longer the buzz-worthy ingredient of the fickle skin care world, glycolic acid continues to quietly and effectively do its work. Naturally sourced from sugar cane, glycolic acid’s small molecules allow it to easily penetrate the skin to even out the complexion by removing the dulling build-up of dead skin cells. Through regular use, glycolic acid can reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles, giving the skin a fresher, more vibrant look. As if that’s not enough, glycolic acid can also unclog pores and help in fighting acne. Reversa has built many of its skin care products around the power of glycolic acid, combining it with arginine and allantoin to minimize irritation.
Resveratrol: This potent antioxidant is found in red grapes, red wine, nuts, and fruits such as blueberries and cranberries. When applied topically, resveratrol protects against sun damage, improves collagen production, and reduces cell damage. It also has anti-inflammatory properties making it useful in skin issues including acne, rosacea and eczema. Stable and potent, resveratrol is definitely worth keeping on the short list.
Whether you use a retinoid or one of its alternatives, keep in mind that most skin care treatments work best as a team in order to achieve significant results. Healthy skin is definitely a case where the whole is greater than the sum of its parts!
