Aging brings wisdom, calmness and gathering, but it also brings some unwanted things like wrinkles. We all should love every stage of our life and we accept the fact that this is how life works. However, if we could work on looking healthier and prettier, then why not? Dermatologists work their heart out to create skincare lines for all types of skin. One of the top priorities that dermatologists and skincare experts work on is anti-aging products. “The global anti-aging market was valued at around 62 billion U.S. dollars in 2021 and is expected to increase to some 93 billion by 2027.” – Statista. Signs of aging will definitely appear and this is something we can’t deny but we can delay. In this article, we will be focusing on products from the very popular skincare brand The Ordinary. These products are known for their effective formulas with scientifically-tested ingredients that reduce the clear appearance of wrinkles.
The Leader of Anti-aging Fighters
If I have to recommend only one ingredient to fight signs of aging, then it has to be retinol. Retinol is one of the strongest ingredients that has to be carefully included in your skincare routine. What makes retinol is the one to go for when it comes to fighting signs of anti-aging? Retinol is a form of vitamin A that is used to treat acne and has anti-aging effects. Retinol increases skin cell production (proliferation) and unclog pores. It also exfoliates your skin and increases collagen production, which can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, giving your skin a fresher, plump appearance. The Ordinary is one of the leading skincare company that made a successful retinol products which is The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane.
How to Use Retinol?
As I mentioned previously, retinol is a strong ingredient and you have to be cautious when using it to not cause adverse results. You first begin with as low percentage as 0.5% to introduce retinol to your routine and this is the one you start with The Ordinary Retinol 0.5%. The amount you use is a pea size for your whole face and avoid under eyes and sides of the mouth. You don’t just introduce retinol to your skincare routine with a low percentage, but you also have to gradually use it at night (and only at night). You start using The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% twice a week with two days space (like Monday and Thursday). After two weeks, you can use it 3 times a week, then every other day, and then everyday (After a month at least). Once you finish the whole bottle, you can go to Retinol 1% in Squalane. Beside following all the steps carefully, you also have to use sunscreen during the day. As retinol peels your skin so the skin is sensitive to sun. Did I just forget to tell in which step you use retinol serum? It’s right after you wash your face and dry it completely with a clean towel or tissue and before applying your night moisturizer.
Nice Made Niacinamide
Niacinamide is not less popular than retinol, perhaps people find it easier to use as it’s gentler on the skin compared to retinol. Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 (niacin) and is used in supplements, skin-care products and food. Vitamin B3 is an antioxidant which is important for cell repair. When skin cells get repaired, they look healthier with less signs of ani-aging and wrinkles. The Ordinary Niacinamide helps build keratin that keeps your skin firm and healthy. It also helps your skin grow a ceramide barrier which retains moisture and keep you skin hydrated and glow. It minimizes pore appearance to make you skin smooth and moisturized. This will lead to regulate the amount of oil the sebaceous glands produce and prevent your glands from going into overdrive. Since niacinamide can concurrently rebuild healthy skin cells while also protecting them from damage caused by ultraviolet rays, it will definitely make your skin look healthier and younger. Recent studies confirmed that niacinamide has the ability to minimizes fine lines and wrinkles.
How to Use Niacinamide?
As I mentioned above that niacinamide has lighter formula than retinol. Then, there is no need to gradually incorporate it into your routine. However, you need to begin with low percentage and increase it gradually. Niacinamide can be used in your morning or night skincare routines. For your morning routine, it works beautifully with vitamin C, because niacinamide regulate sebum production and reduces inflammation, while vitamin C brightens and evens out skin tone, promotes collagen production, and offers antioxidant protection. To maximize the benefits, apply a niacinamide serum directly on your skin after you wash it with a cleanser of your choice. The, followed by a vitamin C serum. If you have sensitive skin, it’s best to use them at different times of the day to avoid potential irritation. As for your night routine, incorporating niacinamide with retinol will work like a magic. Both of them support the appearance of a smoother, more even skin tone and texture.
Combining Niacinamide and Retinol
If you would like to maximize the benefits of combining retinol and niacinamide, then do your night routine as follows:
Morning Routine:
Step 1: wash your face with a cleanser of your choice.
Step 2: use a pea size of retinol and apply it on your face and neck and avoid under eyes and corners of your mouth.
Step 3:apply niacinamide right after the retinol and avoid under eyes and corners of your mouths.
Step 4: after both serums are completely absorbed, spry some water to apply hyaluronic acid serum. For this step, I also recommend the very popular hyaluronic acid serum by The Ordinary.
Step 5: use a night moisturizer cream to lock all the previous steps, this step will make your skin benefit the most from everything you used. In addition, it’s a crucial step to hydrate and nourish your skin. The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors is one of the bestselling products that receive positive reviews and does the job as it promises.
