Retinol has caused quite a stir on the skincare scene in recent years — and for good reason. Its effects span everything from promoting a healthy glow, improving skin texture and reducing acne to diminishing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, enlarged pores and hyperpigmentation. In short, using retinol for your skin can yield bright, smooth and radiant results.
It is clear retinol has benefits and, as big believers in using plant-based skincare where possible, we’re curious about vitamin A-rich alternatives to retinol. The question is, can natural retinol formulas measure up to traditional retinol?
what does retinol do
Retinol is a form of vitamin A and an active ingredient added to topical skincare products. It’s lauded as a wonder product for its ability to:
- Decrease the signs of ageing skin and restore suppleness and plumpness. It does this by targeting free radicals found in the skin’s middle layer — the dermis — which becomes less effective over time at maintaining moisture, elastin and collagen.
- Encourage skin cell regeneration. Our cellular turnover also slows as we age, and retinol assists with this process.
- Have an exfoliating effect on the skin, which helps smooth the skin, unclog pores to reduce pore size and improve the appearance of acne.
However, if you’re considering using retinol for your skin, it’s worth noting traditional retinol can lead to redness, irritation and even flaking in some people — especially those with sensitive skin.
how to use retinol
Given its uniqueness as a skincare product, you might be wondering how to use retinol. Here are some tips for maximising retinol benefits:
- Like all skincare, retinol should be patch-tested before use: it’s best to apply the product to a small area of your face and then wait a few days to ensure there’s no flaking or irritation.
- Use retinol twice a week initially before slowly moving to every second night so your skin has a chance to adjust to the ingredients and reduce the risk of an adverse reaction.
- As part of your skincare ritual, retinol should be applied after cleansing with a gentle, non-exfoliating cleanser. You don’t need much: a pea-sized amount should be enough. Follow with your favourite hyaluronic serum and nourishing moisturiser to help calm and hydrate your skin.
- Traditional retinol increases photo-senstivity and should only be used at night to minimise the risk of sun damage. Sunscreen during the day is essential regardless of whether you’re using retinol for your skin or not.
What can you expect for your life during Leo season? We spoke to Melbourne-based astrology expert, Brylie Gorman, to get her take on what’s in store for you during this season of growth, boundary-setting and listening to your heart.
(Please note these horoscope predictions are not to be taken as medical advice.)
leo horoscope highlights
- This Leo season encourages you to embrace your inner light and let your true self shine through. Be courageous in expressing who you are.
- Create a list of self-care activities, such as reading, a massage, relaxing in a bath, or enjoying a walk in the sunshine, and commit to practising them throughout the season.
- Expect moments that might feel challenging but are designed to enhance your heart energy and promote personal growth. Be careful of reacting and saying things you might later regret.
To learn what’s in store for your star sign this year, check out your yearly horoscope.
introducing natural retinol
Our Phyto-Renewal Oil contains 2% Bakuchiol as well as a selection of other natural retinol ingredients and naturally derived botanicals to give your skin the nurturing it needs without the irritation. Unlike traditional retinol, this retinol alternative is plant-based and vegan, creating a gentle, non-phototoxic formula — meaning it can be used daily, both morning and night as desired.
There are a few intense yet magical moments through this season that might feel a little unnerving. You are being supported to increase your heart chakra vibration and how you express unconditional love to yourself and others.
You may need to commit to growth and feeling uncomfortable, pushing yourself beyond your comfort zone, but you can do it. Towards the end of the season, there will be the space for you to upgrade and transform your relationships, mindset, internal thoughts and self-talk to feel more loving.
At the start of the season, we experience an opposition between the planet Pluto and the Sun. This will be a very significant time for you if your birthday is at the start of the Leo season between 22 – 27 July, as this will set up the next 12 months of energy for you.
This will bring a depth and intensity to Leo’s generally sunny outlook. It could highlight any unbalanced power dynamics playing out in your life. When this arises, reflect on where you might need to have better boundaries in place.
With Jupiter and Mars together for most of the season be mindful of any exaggerated frustration, particularly when communicating with others. With Mercury in Retrograde in the second half of Leo season you may later regret what you quickly expressed in the heat of the moment. Always consult your heart first to ensure your actions and words come from a place of love.
Take the opportunity at the end of this season to pause and check in on the important things in your life. Are you being bold enough? Are you courageously living your life? Is your life supporting you to shine your brightest?
“Our Phyto-Renewal Oil contains 2% Bakuchiol as well as a selection of other natural retinol ingredients and naturally derived botanicals to give your skin the nurturing it needs without the irritation.”
naturally derived active botanicals
the verdict on natural retinol
Natural retinol is a formidable alternative to traditional retinol. Our Phyto-Renewal Oil is a hydrating, glow-inducing, collagen-boosting, anti-ageing, non-irritating, vegan retinol formula for clearer, more radiant skin, offers the same traditional retinol benefits while being completely natural.
For those with sensitive skin or who simply prefer using plant-based ingredients, natural retinols provide a gentle yet powerful addition to your skincare routine.
