Amish Patel, an award-winning aesthetics practitioner and skincare expert at Intrigue Cosmetic Clinic, revealed the best anti-ageing ingredient to have in your arsenal.
Every person hoping to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, pigmentation, and enlarged pores could benefit from the addition of vitamin A into their skincare routine.
Describing vitamin A as an “absolute hero skincare anti-ageing ingredient”, it’s referred to as retinol or tretinoin in the beauty world.
“Vitamin A creams increase skin cell turnover and encourage healthy, damage-free skin formation,” said Mr Patel.
“In doing so, it helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, pigmentation, enlarged pores, acne or oily skin – it does it all.”
Me Patel added: “Skin is then left rejuvenated, brighter, tighter, firmer and more youthful in texture and appearance.”
How to use vitamin A
Mr Patel clarified: “Apply your vitamin A cream at night.” Do note that professional-grade vitamin A must gradually be introduced into your skincare routine.
Mr Patel explained: “I recommend starting with a product with 0.3 percent retinol and slowly building up from there, depending on how well your skin copes.
“However, it is essential to note that using an SPF in the daytime is necessary when using vitamin A to protect the new skin from UV damage.”
Mr Patel added: “When used daily, the effects will last as long as you continue to include this wonder ingredient as part of your skincare regime.”
How much does vitamin A cream cost?
Good quality vitamin A creams can range from £80 to £140, although non-prescription vitamin A can be bought in stores for around £50.
“It’s important to remember it’s the combination of quality ingredients and the formulation of the product that makes the difference in performance and results,” Mr Patel emphasised.
“You don’t need to apply much to your face, just a small pea-sized amount, so it lasts a considerable length of time.”
Any skins of skin irritation – peeling, itching, swelling or blistering – means you should stop using the product.
“Anyone selling higher-grade vitamin A products or prescription strength should always undertake a consultation with you to determine if the product is suitable for you,” advised Mr Patel.