I love our vibrant, engaged community of customers, and I look forward to answering your questions.
Today's question comes from Dana, a delightful customer using all Vitali products for almost two years.
"Loving my products still!!! How do you incorporate Retin-A/Retinol in your regimen?"
How to combine Retinoids and Copper Peptides is an excellent question that my daughter also recently asked about, trying to figure out how often to incorporate Retinol.
As a word of background, Retinoids are members of the Vitamin A family and work well with Copper Peptides to rebuild the skin. Trans-retinoic acid (tretinoin), Retin-A) And cis-retinoic acid (isotretinoin) are prescription drugs that are used to treat acne and sun-damaged skin. In contrast, retinaldehyde, Retinol, and retinyl esters are used in cosmetics for the same purpose and are sold over the counter.
Copper Peptides (GHK-Cu) invigorate stem cells, bringing them to a more youthful state and synthesizing new collagen, elastin, and water-holding molecules for firmer, more elastic skin. Another vital feature of Copper Peptides is that they can positively impact skin fibroblasts (cells that generate connective tissue), protecting and combating UV damage to the skin barrier.
Retinoids are potent skincare ingredients that increase skin cell production (proliferation). They help promote the natural ability to shed dead skin cells and help unclog pores resulting in a healthy, even glow. Over time they can increase collagen production, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. They are also a powerful tool against acne.
If you have not used retinoids, it is essential to introduce them slowly into your routine to avoid severe dryness and irritation. I recommend you start using them at night twice a week and then increase them to up to three nights as your skin adjusts over time. If they cause dryness and sensitivity, you could use a high-quality squalene oil (like Vitali's Hydration Boost) on top of the retinoid, which can calm any irritation and enhance their absorption.
To benefit from both Copper Peptides and Retinoids, use Copper Peptide products such as Vitali's Skin Restorative Serum or Skin Awakening Moisturizer in the morning and alternate Retinoids with Copper Peptides at night two to three times a week. I use retinoids only at night as it makes my skin more sensitive to sunlight and photodamage. But on the other hand, Copper Peptides, while not a sunscreen per se. are potent healers that protect your skin from the sun. Regardless of the products, it is essential to always wear sunscreen.