Retinols, Retinoids, and Vitamin A
Welcome to Trends, Trends, Trends Part II! Last time, I discussed how current and ongoing skin care trends, such as oily cleansers and skin hydration, have been central to Benedetta’s perspective of design, purpose, and plant intelligence for decades, long before they were ever “trendy.” I want to continue that conversation by touching on the topic of retinoids, treating damaged and scarred skin, and how Benedetta addresses these trends.
The term “retinoid” describes a family of compounds derived from Vitamin A that includes both Retin-A and retinol. The only type of retinoid that your skin is able to process immediately is retinoic acid. All other forms of retinoids have to be converted by skin enzymes into retinoic acid before the skin is able to use it. Retin-A (tretinoin) was created to reduce the appearance of fine wrinkles, discoloration, scarring, and create a smoother skin.
In the present age of hydration, why are we in the same breath severely dehydrating skin?
Why are we dehydrating the skin with retinols, sunscreens, mineral make-up, etc. while also dealing with the environment, aging, processed foods, alcohol, coffee, stress, prescription drugs, water insufficiency, and so much more. All of these degrade the skin’s hydration balance.
I believe many Benedetta customers are tempted to purchase many quick fix treatments like retinols with the assumption that these are beneficial and decrease sun damage. Others may have acne scarring they so desperately want to address. Should you find yourself in need of these retinols and use them for these reasons, may we suggest that you also use our Ombra Del Sole Series as well as our Crystal Radiance Hydrating Elixirs.
Bakuchiol – The Retin-A Natural Alternative
Bakuchiol is an oil extracted from the seeds and leaves of the babchi psoralea corylifolia plant. This botanical looks to mimic retinols. The difference would be that it is a vegan, natural source, the similarity would be that it is a harsh exfoliant and that although it has its purpose, it can also cause an imbalance- natural or not.
This plant material definitely intrigued me and at the time of this writing I felt compelled to research this further. However, I do not feel a product like this should be in every lotion and potion as a more thoughtful approach is mandated in the same way I do not use phenol essential oils or oils that are “hot” and often cause reactions. These oils have their place and often are highly anti-viral and anti-bacterial. Again they may cause more of an imbalance and I have chosen differently.
It may be useful to think of bakuchiol as a replacement for retinoids and as a temporary solution for scarring and age spots. But again, this is an allopathic approach, not a holistic one. So stay tuned and watch this space.
Trust Benedetta
I often hear from customers that they love the line, but then when I ask what they use they admit to only using one or two products. I created most products, with few exceptions, to be used together, as they are greater together than any one product alone.
The design and purpose behind Benedetta is to protect, correct, and rejuvenate.
- Protect with bioavailable plant antioxidants
- Correct with sufficient hydration from plant waters, gem elixirs, and more
- Rejuvenate and remove signs of aging before they begin with superb plant extracts, essential oils, and many other plant intelligent synergies
Benedetta stands behind the holistic premise that a well hydrated body and nourishing diet is key. We are what we eat AND what we think. Our skin is a visible indicator of so many other symptoms going on systemically. We are always in flux and change. Your skin is not always going to be radiant, maybe it’s time for the Repair Mask to give you the boost you need. What I’m trying to say is that, in the 30+ years of formulating, there is a solution within the Benedetta line.
Benedetta is part of a greater society of wellness thinkers that support health and sustainability in all its forms.
Are You Susceptible to Trends? Or Are You Tried and True?
Benedetta is tried and true and has been for many, many years. I personally use nothing else and even when I do decide to opt for some of these newer (non-invasive) treatments, I use only Benedetta. As its formulator, I know the efficacy of every ingredient, synergy and preparation at its core. Therefore, it’s my job to convince you of the same: just use it and use it correctly. We are here for you, call us; even if you are satisfied with your routine, you may be surprised that there may even be a better use for the products you are already using. You may also find it's time for a switch to a new Crystal Radiance Hydrating Elixir or Visibly Radiant Moisturizer. We are here to serve you and make sure your skin is the BEST it can be.