It’s one of the most common skin complaints we hear from midlife women is that their skin has lost its glow. Lack of radiance is caused by declining collagen levels which affect the texture and tone of our skin. Skin becomes drier, thinner and more prone to sensitivity all adding up to a lacklustre complexion. The good news is there are skincare ingredients that can transform the appearance of your skin with a serious radiance boost. Look no further than retinol and niacinamide – a powerhouse duo you need in your midlife skincare routine.
Retinol
There are so many different types of retinol – different strengths, different types - it can be so confusing. Basically, retinol is an umbrella term for compounds derived from vitamin A. These are officially called “retinoids”. Retinol works in both the outer layer (epidermis) and inner level (dermis) of the skin. It increases the thickness of both layers by increasing cell turnover and -stimulating collagen production – crucial for great-looking healthy skin in midlife.
Benefits of retinol
Collagen levels decline rapidly around midlife with a scary sounding 30% of collagen in lost in the first five years of menopause. Retinol is well renowned for its ability to transform your skin and is considered the gold standard for ageing well. The impressive list of skin benefits makes it a must for every midlife skincare routine.
- speeds up skin cell renewal
- reduces hyperpigmentation
- reduces the appearance of fine lines
- gently resurfaces skin for a glowy complexion
- unclogs pores
- boosts collagen production
- increases skin firmness and elasticity
Niacinamide
Also known as Vitamin B3, niacinamide is an essential nutrient found in food sources like eggs, nuts and avocados. It plays an essential role in our bodies and has many benefits when it comes to skin. Niacinamide is a proven, effective multi-tasking skincare ingredient. It can target multiple skin concerns at the same time which makes it perfect for menopausal skin. When it comes to tackling the signs of menopausal skin changes, it is hard to beat.
Benefits of Niacinamide:
- Brightens skin without causing irritation
- Strengthens skin’s natural barrier
- Reduces redness and inflammation
- Improves moisture retention by strengthening the skin barrier
- Fades dark spots and uneven skin tone
- Minimizes pore size and improves skin texture
Can Retinol and Niacinamide Be Used Together In Midlife
The good news is yes—retinol and niacinamide can be used together, and they can complement each other beautifully. This combination is especially beneficial during midlife when the skin tends to become drier, more sensitive, and prone to irritation. Here’s why:
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Niacinamide Reduces Retinol Irritation
One of the main challenges with retinol, particularly for menopausal skin, is its potential to cause irritation, dryness, and flakiness. Niacinamide, with its soothing and hydrating properties, helps calm the skin and reduce irritation that might be triggered by retinol. This makes it easier for people with sensitive skin to use retinol. -
Enhances Collagen Production
Retinol works to speed up skin cell turnover and increase collagen production, while niacinamide helps support and protect the skin barrier, making the retinol more effective in the long run. Together, they target a wider range of midlife skin concerns like fine lines, texture, and dark spots, leading to better overall results. -
Improved Skin Barrier and Hydration
Midlife skin tends to lose moisture and become thinner, leading to increased dryness. Retinol, though effective, can sometimes exacerbate this dryness. Niacinamide’s ability to strengthen the skin’s natural barrier and boost hydration makes it an excellent companion to retinol, preventing moisture loss and strengthening skin’s natural barrier.
How to Use Niacinamide and Retinol Together
You can safely layer niacinamide in different products like your serum and your moisturiser to maximise it’s benefits. Use niacinamide in the AM to maximise its antioxidant benefits and always use retinol at night.
The Menopause Skin Solution Set is a simplified menopausal skincare routine for maximum results. The high-performance products have been expertly developed to complement one another to target the top symptoms of menopausal skin changes including loss of radiance hyperpigmentation, dryness, loss of radiance and increased skin sensitivity.
Step 1 Quench & Soothe Serum (35ml) is a next level super hydrator designed to soothe and calm sensitised skin and even out skin tone. With niacinamide for an ultra-hydrated, brighter, clearer complexion. Superstar Ingredients: Multi-molecular hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and Vitamin B5.
Step 2 Collagen Boost Moisturiser (50ml) is a multi-tasking dream cream designed to boost collagen production and deliver vital nourishment for plumper, glowing, firmer skin. With a potent blend of skin nourishing collagen boosting ingredients including niacinamide for skin brightening. Layer with Quench & Soothe Serum in the morning to maximise the effect of niacinamide in tackling hyperpigmentation.
Step 3 Super A Retinol Sleep Cream (50ml) A high-performance retinol blend designed to accelerate cell turnover for radiant, smoother, stronger skin. Specifically designed for menopausal skin so you can enjoy all the benefits of retinol without the irritating downsides. Superstar ingredients: 0.5% encapsulated retinol, ceramides, multi-molecular hyaluronic acid.
