Makeup creators have been searching for an alternative to retinol to use in natural anti-aging skincare products, and they’ve found one! It’s called phyto-retinol, and it is a 100% natural retinol substitute.
In this article, we delve into the similarities and differences between retinol and phyto-retinol and phyto-retinol’s benefits. We also provide details on how you can make your own natural phyto-retinol formulations, including body oil, lip treatments and night creams.
What is retinol?
Retinol is one of the most sought-after anti-aging ingredients used in anti-aging skincare products. Its power to deliver noticeable results in the fight against wrinkles, fine lines and hyperpigmentation has made retinol highly desired. But retinol has some side effects, including causing intense skin irritation.
So, how do you reap the benefits of this potent ingredient but avoid the negative side effects?
Scientists have discovered a natural alternative to retinol known as phyto-retinol.
Phyto-retinol is a 100% natural ingredient that can produce similar skin benefits as retinol, including reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and improving collagen levels within the skin, but it’s much gentler than its synthetic equivalent.
The result is an effective alternative to retinol that can be used in a natural anti-aging skin care product. It’s the natural retinol substitute we’ve been searching for.
What are the side effects of retinol?
Retinoids are a family of Vitamin A derivatives and are compounds that are naturally found within the body for nutrition and general skin functioning. These compounds regulate cell growth which has an impact on the typical signs of aging (such as fine lines, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation) and acne.
Retinols are one of the most popular retinoids in the skincare industry, but they come with drawbacks.
Within skincare, retinoids are typically synthetically derived and therefore not permitted in COSMOS certifications. Retinol can often be difficult to formulate with, due to its sensitivity to light and pH, and can cause negative side effects due to speeding up cell turnover and renewal which can lead to redness, skin flaking, rashes and general irritation.
This is why scientists have been searching for an alternative to retinol for so long.
What are natural phyto-retinols, and what are their advantages?
‘Phyto’ means ‘plant’, therefore phyto-retinoids are a phytochemical which can produce similar skin benefits as retinol while being a natural ingredient.
Natural anti-aging skincare products on the market containing phyto-retinols make a wide range of claims, such as reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and improving collagen levels. And just like retinols, it can take between 6-12 weeks to see the skin benefits of using phyto-retinols.
However, unlike retinol, phyto-retinol can be used by most skin types without irritation – especially those who may have not been able to use retinoids in the past. Its lack of phototoxicity means it can also be worn throughout the day or night.
More research and studies are needed in order to make a more complete comparison between these retinol and phyto-retinol, however, it is clear that natural phyto-retinol is a safer and very effective anti-aging ingredient. It’s the ideal alternative to retinol.
Bakuchiol is a type of phyto-retinol and can be found in many natural skincare products. Studies have shown that bakuchiol causes an increase in the regulation and simulation of collagen within the skin. This can lead to reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
The study also showed bakuchiol significantly reduces the appearance of pigmentation and photodamage, and reduces post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Create your own natural phyto-retinols skincare products
If you are interested in learning more about the science behind phyto-retinol you can access a comprehensive ingredients guide in the Natural Cosmetic Formulation Club.
Formulating with Phyto-Retinol also gives you the opportunity to formulate three luxurious photo-retinol skincare products that really work.
Create a glossy Phyto-Retinol Body Oil, a shimmery Phyto-Retinol Lip Treatment, and a soothing Phyto-Retinol Recovery Night Cream.
The Natural Cosmetic Formulation Club is a great place to learn about a whole range of ingredients. From the newly trending gotu kola, to the highly effective CBD and hemp seed oil.
From in depth training on specialist ingredients to learning how to formulate with them. Take a look at our Formulation Lab and discover Cleansing Powders, Massage Candles, and Hand Sanitizer Sprays. The Club has classes, courses and business advice, all at your fingertips.
Not a member?
If you are interested in becoming a Member of the Natural Cosmetic Formulation Club, click here for more information.
If you are already a member and you’re ready to formulate with phyto-retinol, click here and start the class today!
