What are the benefits of retinol?

Retinol is the technical name for Vitamin A which is essential for maintaining healthy skin. Skin care products containing retinol help to stimulate cell regeneration, build collagen to diminish the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and age spots. A study utilizing human skin samples found that 1% retinol inhibits the increase of collagen-degrading matrix metalloproteinases and it stimulates collagen synthesis in both intrinsically aged and photo aged skin (Varani J. et.al (2000). Vitamin A antagonizes decreased cell growth and elevated collagen-degrading matrix metalloproteinases and stimulates collagen accumulation in naturally aged human skin. Journal of Investigative Dermatology; 114:480-86).


Who can use Skinsilk-A™ Retinol 0.75% Serum Capsules? Is it only used for mature aged skin?

Diverse age groups will benefit from its ability to help in reducing and preventing fine lines and wrinkles. Skinsilk-A™ is also beneficial for skin imperfections such as age spots and blemishes caused by acne.


Why is Skinsilk-A™ superior to other commercial products?

The efficacy of retinol is determined by factors such as concentration, stability, encapsulation method and formulation. Retinol is highly unstable when stored in the presence of light and oxygen. This is evident by the degree of yellow discoloration of the product. Many commercial products fail to address the issues of retinol stability and thus are very yellow in colour. Skinsilk-A™ preserves the stability of retinol by using single-use capsules thus avoiding exposure to light and oxygen. The production and subsequent encapsulation process of skinsilk-A™ is also conducted under strict and controlled conditions to maximize the stability of retinol.


What precautions should I take whilst using Skinsilk-A™ Retinol 0.75% Serum Capsules?

It is advisable to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day. Retinol use can cause photosensitivity of the skin. In addition, it is also recommended to apply a good moisturising cream, 30 min after each evening application of Skinsilk-A™. As a precaution, retinol should not be used by pregnant women, or women who intend to become pregnant. No reports of fetal toxicity have been reported from topical retinol products. Rosacea affected consumers should also avoid this product as it may exacerbate their condition.


What side-effects can I expect to encounter whilst using retinol?

Dosage tolerance varies significantly from user to user. Some individuals may never be able to tolerate high doses of retinol. Sensitive skin is more prone to adverse effects so the intial frequency of application should be determined by the user’s comfort level. Side-effects are generally referred to as retinoid dermatitis which can include skin peeling, stinging and slight to moderate skin redness. In rare and severe cases scabbing can occur. It is therefore strongly advised to limit the initial use of Skinsilk-A™. The side effects of retinol are intrinsic to its efficacy however through proper skin acclimation these side affects will subside. If irritation persists for a prolonged period discontinue use for a few days.