Lessons

What are these "retinol-like" active ingredients really worth?

You may have already heard of them, but are these active ingredients that brands and influencers are extolling the virtues of also made for you? Focus on these "beautiful skin" ingredients that rival retinol in effectiveness. 

Why is everyone talking about retinol? 

A big star in the world of cosmetics, retinol is capable of resolving an armada of skin problems. Initially, it was recommended for treating severe imperfections thanks to its super-scrubbing and regulating action, but we've come to realize that it can also be used to treat wrinkles, firmness, pigmentation spots and dull complexions. That's right, it acts deep within the dermisstimulating the production of collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid. Its keratolytic action, on the other hand, softens the skin's surface layer, which peels off and gives that "new skin" effect. The problem is retinol is not suitable for sensitive skin and should not be used when the skin is exposed to sunlight, as it may irritate or even cause dark spots. Continuous use is also not recommended, due to its potency. So if you're worried about using retinol, here are our alternatives for the same "wow" effect.

#seo: oh my cream skincare routine

Bakuchiol, retinol's twin  

If this ingredient is on everyone's lips, it's actually been used for ages in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. What are its properties? Identical to those of synthetic retinol (anti-aging, anti-dark spot, anti-imperfections and radiance booster), but with one difference: it's also anti-inflammatory and natural! It's particularly formidable on dark spots and doesn't cause irritation.

Where to find it? 

Plumping Cream and Plumping Oil Oh My Cream Skincare

Natural trans-retinoic acid, the "soft" version of retinol

It is found in vegetable oils containing high concentrations of vitamin A, such as wild rose or carrot oil. It is tolerated by even the most sensitive skin and has exactly the same anti-aging, anti-dark spot and radiance properties. So it's a safe bet for super-reactive skin.

Where to find it? 

Retinoic Nutrient Face Oil Huile Nutrition Intense Tata Harper

#seo: pai boosters

Peptides, those gifted molecules   

Peptides are a bit like a Lego assembly which, depending on the way their amino acids fit together, offer completely different effects on the skin. Some are capable of improving your skin's regeneration, others of boosting its quality by working on the grain... You'll have to be a little more patient than with retinol to see the effects of peptides, but they are undeniably very anti-aging performance.

Where to find them? 

Smoothing Peptide Booster Pai Skincare

Glycolic acid, the natural peel 

Glycolic acid is a tiny fruit acid: that's what enables it to nibble away at the "glue" that binds dead cells together. It's not much to look at, but its effectiveness on radiance and even preventing imperfections is formidable. And as it eliminates dead cells, it calls on your skin to produce brand-new cells, ensuring top-notch skin renewal. As an added bonus, it boosts hyaluronic acid synthesis for better hydration. Not suitable for sensitive skin.

Where to find it? 

Glycolactic New Skin Radiance Mask Ren Skincare

#seo: vitamin C serum

Vitamin C, radiance for all skin types 

Extra-antioxidant, daily use of Vitamin C is ideal for urban skin to limit dullness, pimples, spots and premature ageing caused by pollution. For sensitive skin, simply start with a fairly low dose, and gradually increase the dosage or frequency, depending on the product, to reap the benefits.

Where to find it? 

C.E.O. 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum Sunday Riley

Do you still have questions about a product or would you like to go further in your beauty routine? Write to us at contact@ohmycream.com, our beauty coaches will be delighted to help you. You can also book an appointment via this link link for an online consultation to speak directly with one of our experts and carry out a skin diagnosis.

Retinol-like selection

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