FREE SHIPPING ON ORDERS $50+

FREE SHIPPING ON ORDERS $50+
MOTHER’S DAY SALE: 15% OFF GIFT SETS & KITS - USE CODE GIFT4MOM
MOTHER’S DAY SALE: 15% OFF GIFT SETS & KITS - USE CODE GIFT4MOM
JUARA Skincare
JUARA Skincare

Why You Need to Know About these Natural Retinol Alternatives

Yoshiko Roth Hidalgo -

 

 

Retinol

 

Despite years of research and innovation in skincare, Retinol, which is a member of the retinoid family and an active form of Vitamin A, holds a special place amongst anti-aging ingredients.  Retinol (as well as Retinoic Acid, which is only available by prescription) has been studied extensively over decades and is considered the gold standard for anti-aging ingredients. 

Topical Retinol works by attaching to so-called “retinoic acid receptors” in the skin which triggers a cascade of skin benefits, such as increasing skin cell turnover, stimulating fibroblasts to build more structural protein like collagen, elastin and ceramides as well as inhibiting melanin production and reducing acne.    

Why is Retinol Controversial?

Despite its proven skin benefits, Retinol is not without controversy because it comes with a host of side effects.  This includes irritation, redness, peeling and making skin more sensitive to the sun.  The key with an anti-aging ritual (or any skincare ritual, really) in order to produce real results, is long-term, consistent application.  If a product works but side effects are so bothersome that you stop using it after a few days, it defeats the whole point.  In addition, Retinol is notoriously unstable and deteriorates in the sun, which is why it is recommended for night-time use only.  Lastly, products with Retinol, because if is an active form of Vitamin A, is a no-no during pregnancy and while breast-feeding.  While weaker, safer, non-irritating forms of Vitamin A, such as its pre-cursor Beta Carotene (present in many botanical ingredients), are already used in skincare, its anti-aging effects are weak.  Beta Carotene is an excellent antioxidant, which is helpful, however, there is little evidence that it reverses visible signs of aging.

New-Generation Natural Retinol Substitutes

The new-generation of natural Retinol alternatives, most notably Bio-Retinol and Bakuchiol, have created much buzz in the skincare world because, while they are not members of the Vitamin A family, they actually work in the same way as Retinol does by attaching to the retinoid receptors in the skin, therefore triggering the cascade of skin benefits, but without creating the same side effects.  This is great news especially for people with sensitive skin and anyone who has been looking for a safer, natural alternative to Retinol but does not want to compromise on effectiveness.

JUARA Miracle Tea Recovery Crème

JUARA’s Miracle Tea Recovery Creme is a comprehensive age-delay and recovery treatment that also acts as a deep moisture infusion for dry and very dry, dehydrated skin.  It features Bio-Retinol, a botanical complex centered around the Bidens Pilosa plant, which works like Retinol without triggering skin irritation.  By attaching to the skin’s retinoid receptors, Bio-Retinol helps

  • Increase skin cell turnover
  • Build more structural proteins (the fountain of youth)
  • Even out your skin tone
  • Control break-outs by helping clear pores
  • Reduce free radical damage

The beauty of Bio-Retinol is also that it is highly stable and does not make skin more sensitive to the sun.  All around good news for sensitive skin!  This also means that you can use Miracle Tea Recovery Creme as part of your daytime face ritual without worrying about an adverse reaction.

In addition to Bio-Retinol, this treatment stars other powerful actives such as Colubrina Bark for deep hydration, and Kombucha for radiance, Ginger for environmental recovery and stabilized Vitamin C for skin brightening.

Curious about trying natural Retinol alternatives?  Everyone’s skin is different and can react to ingredients, even those that have been shown to be gentle and safe for most people.  If you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergic reactions and are trying a new product, apply a little bit of on the inside of your forearm and leave it covered for 24 hours without washing.  If no reaction, you should be safe to enjoy your new product!