This article has been updated since its initial publish date.
Fine lines and wrinkles come naturally with aging. Sagging skin is another byproduct of the passing years’ effect on your complexion. A great way to tackle sagging skin, especially in the winter, are serums. Serums are used for a number of different purposes but are generally used to reduce blemishes and brighten the skin.
One serum that dermatologists highly recommend for skin-tightening sagging skin is retinol. To learn more about retinol, we spoke with a skincare expert, Dr. Ailynne Marie Vergara-Wijangco, a clinical dermatologist and researcher with ThankYourSkin. She said retinol increases skin cell and collagen production which is what gives skin a plump, youthful appearance.
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The Many Benefits Of Retinol Serum
There are actually a few skincare products that can make a world of difference when it comes to wrinkles and sagging skin. Hyaluronic acids are a great pick for hydration, while sunscreen (which you should be wearing year-round) or moisturizer with SPF is a must for preventing fine lines, wrinkles, and sun spots caused by UV damage.
But retinol serums often come out on top when dermatologists are asked to select just one product that will help sagging skin snap back for women over the age of 40.
Collagen keeps your skin firm and promotes elasticity, minimizing the appearance of wrinkles. That's why this protein is one of the biggest factors for determining how quickly you show your age.
As you grow older, your body naturally begins to produce less and less collagen and retinol helps stimulate collagen production thus keeping wrinkles at bay. So it can be a great benefit to add this serum to your skincare routine! Retinoin, which was the first retinoid approved by the FDA to treat wrinkles, works by increasing the making of new collagen.
It also stimulates new blood vessels in the skin, giving skin a rosy appearance, fading age spots, and reducing pre-cancer skin spots," explains Dr. Vergara-Wijangco.
Retinol can also make it more difficult for new wrinkles to form and help sagging skin snap back. Many of your existing skincare products work together to fight wrinkle production, and retinol is no different.
"Using [retinol] along with products that have alpha-hydroxy acids may provide even more skin-smoothing effects," she continues. "Tretinoin is more aggressive and retinol is more suitable for those with sensitive skin."
If you're prone to dryness or have noticeable sensitive skin, retinol is especially beneficial in the fall and winter. But, it's best to ask your doctor before adding any new ingredients to your routine. Read more about what retinol does for your skin!
Wrinkles won't stand a chance when you expand your skincare routine to include a collagen-boosting serum such as retinol, and the earlier you start using it, the better your results will be in the future. And, if you're still noticing wrinkles on your skin, there are plenty of foods, drinks, and supplements you can take to encourage collagen production.
