Shop Our April Specials HERE

    RETINOL:
    the single BEST ingredient in skincare

    RETINOL

    We hear how amazing retinol can be for your skincare routine, but why is it so important? Retinol is a vitamin A derivative that could be the single best ingredient in skincare. It helps fight fine lines and wrinkles, regulates and normalizes skin cell functions, while also preventing collagen breakdown in the skin. Studies have found retinol creates dramatic change in the skin with regular use.

    Who should use Retinol?

    Retinol use is great for anyone looking for a healthier complexion and overall more-even skin tone, anyone experiencing early signs of aging with fine lines and wrinkles, or those with some pigmentation. It can also be a good alternative to neurotoxin injectables. “Retinol can be great for people struggling with acne too, due to its ability to turn cells over so quickly” says Lead Lincoln Park Aesthetician, Ashley Powers. 

    When to apply Retinol? 

    Retinol can be sensitizing to your skin which is why we recommend applying at night. It can also make you more sensitive to the sun, therefore, we suggest avoiding sun exposure as much as possible, and as always, we stress the importance of applying a sunscreen of 30 SPF or higher throughout the day. We suggest starting off once a week and then increasing the frequency per week as your skin adapts. 

    Why use a medical-grade Retinol? 

    Medical grade retinoids along with other medical grade products are thoroughly researched and are clinically proven to produce results while ensuring the safety and efficacy for your skin. The way they are made and composed of from a molecular level is proven. Whereas, over-the-counter skincare products, can make claims on a product for marketing purposes that might not have valid evidence to back them up. Over-the-counter products are also required by law to reduce the amount of active ingredients in their formulas, so it is “safe” for anyone and everyone to use it.  

    Retinol Product Favorites:

    PCAskin Retinol Products:

    • Intensive Age Refining Treatment 0.5% pure retinol 

    • Intensive Clarity Treatment 0.5% pure retinol  

    SkinBetter AlphaRet:

    • This product is a retinoid, which is a group of vitamin A derivatives including retinol, retinyl palmitate, and retinoic acid. 

    • Great for those who are hesitant to use retinoids due to erythema, dryness, flaking and other noticeable side effects. 

    • Skinbetter science’s patented AlphaRet uses revolutionary and proprietary retinoid technology. That has been proven as effective as a 0.025% tretinoin, Retin-A. This makes it the strongest, safest, and most effective Retinoid on the market.


    SkinBetter AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads: 

    • This triple-acid formulation utilizes the benefits of lactic acid, glycolic acid  and salicylic acid, enhanced with SkinBetter patented AlphaRet technology to reveal smoother, softer and more even-looking skin. 

    • It supports exfoliation and removes the outer layer of dead skin to help prevent clogged pores. 

    • Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, pores and rough patches. 

    • This at-home peel pad is to be used at night up to three times per week. 

    Retinol Treatments:

    • PCAskin Retinol Chemical Peel 

      • The PCAskin retinol peel has two strengths 4% and 6%, both are performed by certified professionals. 

      • It contains a blend of pure retinol and antioxidants to improve skin texture and brighten skin. Overtime, it diminishes fine lines and wrinkles throughout accelerated cellular turnover. 

      • We recommend purchasing a post-peel kit especially if your skin is prone to becoming dry and flaky when using topical retinoid. 

      • These peels have a slightly longer downtime than other PCAskin Peels.




    We always recommend coming in for a complimentary consultation for us to assess the best products and treatments for your skin. Shop our products online, in spas, or over the phone. 

    {"email":"Email address invalid","url":"Website address invalid","required":"Required field missing"}