Source: flickr.com user thecampbells

With so many fantastic and effective skin care ingredients from which to choose, it was tough to select only one to be DermStore’s favorite ingredient. Although it was a close competition, retinol beat out other well-known ingredients, such as salicylic acid and glycolic acid, for the favorite ingredient of DermStore’s team.

Retinol is a pure and active derivative of antioxidant-rich vitamin A that targets imperfections such as fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation and blemishes. Because of its effectiveness in treating these common skin conditions, retinol is often used in acne treatment products and anti aging skin care products. It is also used in the treatment of stretch marks, eczema, hair loss, keratosis pilaris, photodamage and more, making it one of the most versatile ingredients commonly used in beauty products.

Retinol works by stimulating damaged or aging skin cells and encouraging them to act more like youthful, healthy cells. Because vitamin A has such a small molecular structure, it is one of the few skin care ingredients able to easily penetrate the outer layers of the skin, allowing it to work in the deeper areas of the skin where collagen and elastin reside. This has led to the discovery that retinol is able to boost collagen synthesis, increase cell turnover and repair the lower layers of the skin that are often left untouched.

When using a skin care treatment formulated with retinol, you will notice a softer and smoother skin texture, a more even skin tone and a reduction in fine lines, wrinkles and enlarged pores. In addition, acne-prone users will experience clearer, brighter and healthier-looking skin.