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Maintaining Facial Radiance

If ever there was a class of medications that could turn back the hands of time and reverse sun damage, retinoids would surely be it. Retinoids, the best-kept secret in facial skin care, offer several anti-aging properties and are an easy addition to our daily skin care regimen.

Retinoids are derived from vitamin A, which has the ability to actually form a new layer of skin, giving you a more youthful look and feel. Vitamin A in the retinoids increases the production of hyaluronic acid, which works as a powerhouse for our skin as it hydrates and replenishes. Hyaluronic acid has the ability to enhance moisture content readily and soften fine lines, resulting in a suppler look and feel.

The benefits of retinoids are numerous, including prevention of those pesky fine lines and wrinkles! Our face loses its glow as we mature, but with this addition to our regimen, the glow will be restored along with color, tone and overall texture. Pores, enlarged over time due to sun exposure, heredity and maturity, will unclog with continued retinoid treatment, restoring a healthy, smoother appearance. With their peeling effect, retinoids also have the ability to fade brown spots. Last but not least, they stimulate blood flow and collagen production. Smoother skin has a more refreshed appearance, allowing make-up application to look more natural.

Retinoids are offered in various strengths. Retinol, being the weakest and most gentle, is an excellent way to introduce a retinoid into your skin care regimen. To minimize irritation and dryness, begin by applying every other night, increasing to nightly use only after your skin adjusts. In the beginning you may even combine your retinoid with CeraVe moisturizer if you’re experiencing any dryness or irritation. As you progress to retinoids, the strength will increase depending upon tolerability. Always apply this product at night due to sun sensitivity.

Let’s get together to discuss this easy addition to your daily skin care regimen!

Deborah Pontoriero has extensive nursing experience. She graduated from Germantown Nursing School in 1980, Stockton State College in 1989 and earned her MSN from the University of Pennsylvania in 1996.