The perfect routine should include protection, hydration and repair. In the quest for healthy, radiant skin, many skin care products promise miraculous results. However, not all ingredients are created equal. Antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, and retinol are three common ingredients that have been shown in numerous clinical studies to be beneficial for the skin in multiple ways. In this article, we will explain why the perfect routine should include at least these three ingredients.
Antioxidants: protection against damage caused by oxidative stress
Antioxidants are ingredients that help neutralize free radicals, which in turn are unstable molecules that are produced naturally in our body as a result of cellular damage caused by poor diet, work, alcohol, pollution, sun exposure and other external agents. Free radicals can damage the cells of various organs and also those of the skin and accelerate the aging process.
Antioxidants help prevent cell damage. Vitamin C is the antioxidant par excellence for skin care and the one with the greatest number of scientific studies that support it. In these studies it has been seen that the minimum amount of vitamin C that a formula must have to produce the desired positive effects on the skin is 8%. It is important to look for cosmetics with high concentrations of active ingredients to benefit from truly effective cosmetics. In addition to its ability to neutralize free radicals, vitamin C also stimulates collagen production and can help even skin tone and reduce the appearance of dark spots.
Other antioxidants commonly found in skin care products include vitamin E, ferulic acid, niacinamide, and resveratrol. When choosing skin care products that contain antioxidants, it is important to look for products that are stable and have been properly formulated to ensure that the antioxidants are effective. And it is recommended that several of these antioxidants be combined in the same formula so that they are enhanced and achieve maximum effectiveness. The Method R Antiox Serum, for example, combines free vitamin C, liposomal vitamin C, ferulic acid and vitamin E.
Hyaluronic acid: Hydration and volume
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a hydrating ingredient widely used in skin care products. It comes in 3 different versions with different functions. Low, medium and high molecular weight. HA that is found naturally in our body, especially in our skin and connective tissue. It acts as a humectant, meaning it can help retain moisture in the skin and keep it hydrated.
Low molecular weight HA is small and capable of penetrating the skin, mainly in its liposome version. In their medium and high molecular weight version they act as occlusives to prevent transepidermal water loss. Both are interesting and, in different ways, fulfill the function of hydrating the skin.
As we age, our hyaluronic acid levels decrease, which can lead to drier, less firm skin. By adding hyaluronic acid to our skincare routine, we can replenish the moisture levels in our skin and help maintain its youthful, smooth appearance.
In addition to its hydrating properties, hyaluronic acid can also help improve skin volume and fullness. This is because, when applied topically, hyaluronic acid can penetrate the skin and bind to water molecules, increasing skin volume. Although we always recommend having realistic expectations regarding cosmetics, a cosmetic will never achieve the same effects as an aesthetic technique.
All steps in the Method R routine contain hyaluronic acid. We believe that hydration is so important that you should not miss an opportunity to promote it.
Retinol: A solution to prevent and delay aging
Retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A found in numerous youth-promoting skin care products and also have an extensive literature of scientific studies demonstrating their effectiveness. It has been shown to be effective in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as improving texture and evening skin tone. Although not everything goes. To achieve positive biological effects on the skin, it must have a minimum concentration of 0.25%. And its liposome version has proven to have much better results.
As time goes by, our skin becomes “lazy” and the production of new skin cells (keratinocytes) slows down. That's why we say that retinoids repair the skin. They work by reactivating and accelerating cell renewal and collagen production. They also help reduce the appearance of dark spots and smooth skin texture. By adding retinoids to our skin care routine, we can improve your overall appearance and reduce the visible signs of aging.
However, it is important to note that retinoids can be irritating to some people, especially if used in too high concentrations or too frequently. It is important to follow the product instructions and speak to a dermatologist if you have any concerns. If you are starting to use it for the first time, it is recommended to start gradually, combining it with a cream for sensitive skin. At Method R we believe in lasting results and these are achieved with patience and perseverance. Our Slow-Aging Comfort and Slow-Aging Hydration creams, both with liposomed Retinyl, are ideal for achieving excellent results, without the unwanted adverse effects of retinoids.
The perfect combination
While each of these ingredients alone can offer notable benefits to the skin, when combined, they can offer even more. Combining antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, and retinol in a skin care routine can help prevent cell damage, hydrate and plump skin, and reduce signs of aging.
When creating a skin care routine that includes these ingredients, it is important to pay attention to the quality and formulation of the products used. Look for products that are stable and have been formulated effectively. It's also important to remember that consistency is key: the benefits of these ingredients accumulate over time, so it's important to be consistent in using the products.
In short, by including antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, and retinol in our skin care routine, we can help protect skin from cell damage, hydrate and plump skin, and reduce visible signs of aging. While each of these ingredients can be beneficial on their own, their combination can offer noticeable results and healthier, more radiant skin.
