Welcome to the Nov. Edition of the Skin Sage Newsletter.

Smoothing Away Fine Lines with Retinol

Many dermatologists agree that retinoids, derived from Vitamin A, do the best job of smoothing fine lines, refining rough skin texture, making pores appear smaller and fading brown spots. However, many women are reluctant to try prescription retinoids like Retin-A because they are notorious for causing skin irritation, redness and flaking.

A gentler and often less expensive alternative to prescription-only Retin-A's such as Renova is an over-the-counter retinol product. While it will likely take longer (up to 12 weeks versus 4 to 8 weeks) to notice a change, retinol is less irritating to the skin because it converts more slowly to retinoic acid, the active ingredient in prescription formulas.

If you use a non-prescription retinoid, be sure to get one that lists the percentage of retinol on the label. Many drugstore brands are not strong enough to be effective. The most effective over-the-counter retinol product is one that contains at least 0.1% retinol. You can find products with up to 0.6%. Keep in mind that with the higher the percentages of retinol,you may experience some mild redness and flaking until your skin adjusts, although the side effects are not as severe as with Retin-A. Use only a small amount, apply it in the evening and wait 15-20 minutes before applying nighttime moisturizer. When using retinol (as with Retin-A) it's very important to wear sunscreen daily, even in the winter.

What Kind of Results to Expect from Retinol

With daily use of retinol, you should notice that fine lines are less apparent and your skin is smoother and softer. Keep in mind that it will take longer to see a difference than with the Rx version. While prescription Retina's like Renova will produce more pronounced effects sooner, it can take up to 6 months for your skin to become accustomed to the stronger prescription version.

My favorite Over-the-Counter Retinol Products

• GreatSkin Retinol 10X Serum - Contains a high concentration of retinol combined with Co-Q10 and vitamin C to fight the formation of wrinkles and provide antioxidant protection. Available at GreatSkin.com - Save $4 with any purchase of $45 or more. Enter coupon code: GS5OFF45
  
  
• SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.5% and 1.0% formulas Contains a high percentage of retinol, and enhanced with the latest stabilization and delivery technologies.
  
  
• Afirm 1X - Contains 0.15% retinol and features the Microsponge system, which allows Afirm to have a high concentration of retinol, yet be very gentle on your skin. This product is also available in a 0.3% formula called Afirm 2X and a 0.6% formula called Afirm 3X.
  
  
• Neova Retinol ME .30 Percent by ProCyte

The above products are available at SkinStore.com

Skinstore is offering a Free $20 eGift Certificate with $100 minimum purchase. thru Nov 15. Valid only on future purchases at SkinStore.com through December 31, 2007

>> SEE MORE SPECIAL SAVINGS OFFERS TO THE RIGHT! <<

Bare Escentuals Classic Rock Flawless Diamond 9-Piece Color Collection ($145 Value) $59

Well that's it for this issue. Happy Thanksgiving.

Valerie Goettsch
www.skin-sage.com
Growing younger, inside and out