To celebrate the launch of RéVive’s latest innovation, Perfectif Night Even Skin Tone Cream Retinol Dark Spot Corrector, we take a closer look at retinol with RéVive founder, Dr. Gregory Bays Brown.
ALL ABOUT RETINOL
Q: First and foremost, what exactly is retinol?
Dr. Brown: Retinol is a Vitamin A derivative. It is clinically proven to decrease melanin production, and increase collagen synthesis while inhibiting the breakdown of existing collagen. Retinol also increases epidermal growth factor receptors in the skin, which in turn increases cell renewal.
Q: Who is retinol best for?
Dr. Brown: Retinol works to address the effects of sun damage, discoloration, fine lines, and wrinkles. Retinoids initially came to market to address acne and is still very effective for blemishes and related discoloration as well as minimizing the appearance of pores.
Q: How should you use a retinol product?
Dr. Brown: We recommend starting out using Perfectif Night Cream once to twice a week, gradually increasing frequency depending on your skin's tolerance. If you experience dryness you can add extra moisturization such as Rescue Elixir. As you start using a retinol formula we suggest avoiding products that contain glycolic acid. Of course, you know your skin the best so adjust accordingly during retinization – the adjustment period in which the skin adapts to a retinoid treatment.
Q: Can retinol be used for all skin types?
Dr. Brown: Yes, retinol can be good for all skin types but as I always say, "nobody knows your skin as well as you do". For a highly active and effective ingredient like retinol, I recommend starting conservatively – perhaps every other night. You can increase the frequency up to nightly as your skin builds a tolerance to the formula.
Q: Retinol has been a hot ingredient for years, why is RéVive launching Perfectif with retinol now?
Dr. Brown: Retinoids first came to market in the 1970’s and are derived from Vitamin A. Retinoids can be found in both prescription and over the counter strengths. Prescription retinoids are more potent and classified as a pharmaceutical/drug, whereas retinol (used in cosmetics) is the weaker and therefore less irritating version. It wasn't until recently, as technology to limit irritation advanced, that we decided to introduce retinol into our lineup. Perfectif Night Cream was created with encapsulated retinol that has a delayed release technology to minimize the risk of skin irritation while providing the benefits of retinol.
Q: What other RéVive skincare products pair well with the new Perfectif Night Cream?
Dr. Brown: First, it is essential to pair your nightly retinol with a daily SPF to protect against sun damage. I recommend using Perfectif Even Skin Tone Cream SPF 30 during the day. Additionally, using a serum like Perfectif Even Skin Tone Serum both day and night before you apply your moisturizer will provide synergistic benefits
Q: What are the synergies of the Perfectif Collection?
Dr. Brown: The Perfectif Collection is a comprehensive regimen to target critical discoloration concerns. When used together, they help to break up and reduce the visible intensity of existing darker pigmented areas, minimize melanin pigmentation, and discourage new spots from forming. The collection shares our signature Bio-Renewal Protein and Brightening Peptide while each product contains incremental active ingredients designed to treat discoloration.
Q: How should retinol be used as part of one’s skincare routine?
Dr. Brown: Retinol, in general, is very beneficial for skin as it increases cell renewal and collagen synthesis – both of which slow with age. However, since retinol greatly attenuates the stratum corneum (removes the dead out layer of skin) it makes harmful UV rays even more damaging to the newly revealed skin. Therefore, we recommend using in the evening only, starting out every other night allowing your skin to build a tolerance and remember to wear an SPF during the day.
Q: At what age should someone start using retinol?
Dr. Brown: It depends on one’s skin concerns, but generally I think you should start when you see the first signs of aging such as fine lines, discoloration, and uneven skin tone. Acne tends to occur in younger individuals, whereas photo aging, wrinkles and lines occur a little later.
Q: How long does it take to see a difference in one’s skin when starting to use retinol?
Dr. Brown: One can see a visible difference in just a few weeks; skin will look more smooth, less lined and soft. Certainly, within three months there is histological evidence of reversed photo aging and increased collagen synthesis.
Q: What is your #1 tip for maintaining a youthful glow?
Dr. Brown: My advice for a youthful glow is to take care of yourself from the inside as well as treat your skin regularly on the outside. I highly recommend a daily routine that consists of moderate exercise, a low glycemic index diet, sun protection during the day and a nightly moisturizing treatment like Moisturizing Renewal Cream or Perfectif Night Cream.
