Retinol: the golden standard of skincare. The Vitamin A derivative is a type of retinoid and one of the most researched skincare ingredients. Anyone seeking a skincare routine delivering visible results on the skin should be looking into using Vitamin A. The star ingredient is available in many different derivates and concentrations, so almost everyone can find a suitable skincare product with Vitamin A.

WHAT IS IT? 

Vitamin A is an oil-soluble vitamin with small molecules that may have the ability to make a difference on your skin. Retinol, perhaps the most known form of Vitamin A, is a type of retinoid. Some of the most common retinoids are retinol esters (Retinyl Palmitate, Retinyl Acetate, Retinyl Propionate), Retinol, Retinaldehyde, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, and Retinol 8. NEAR 1 is a novel form of Vitamin A; a molecule patented by Verso. It is a versatile skincare technology combining two hero ingredients: Vitamin A and Niacinamide. 

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS FOR MY SKIN?

Vitamin A is a multifunctional ingredient that can fit into most skin care routines. 

• Visibly rejuvenating to strengthen, visibly firm, and enhance the skin’s natural glow. 
• Clarifying unbalanced skin to promote a fresh and healthy-looking appearance. 
• Brightening for a radiant, glowing complexion that promotes an even skin tone. 
• Soothing to lessen the appearance of temporary redness and leave the skin soft and smooth. 
•  Protecting from visible effects of outdoor elements to help maintain beautiful skin with its antioxidant properties.

WHEN CAN YOU START?

If you are new to functional ingredients, the first thing you need is a solid base, including hydration and sun protection. When you have a basic routine going, you can start introducing products including Vitamin A. 

Vitamin A is usually not included in skincare routines to help visibly tighten and firm your look before the age of 25. Some are using the ingredient at an earlier age, mainly to reduce the appearance of unbalanced and oily skin. If that's the case, you could start using it a couple of years earlier.

WHAT CAN I COMBINE WITH VITAMIN A? 

You should avoid mixing too many different functional products at once. Instead, focus on products that provide hydration and sun protection along with your Vitamin A product. 

WHEN SHOULD YOU AVOID IT? 

We do not recommend using Vitamin A during pregnancy due to the overall hormonal change in the body. Suitable choices are products that visibly soothe, moisturize, and protect the skin. Verso Facial Cleanser, Verso Hydration Serum, Verso Super C Serum, and Verso Nourishing Cream are excellent options. Don’t forget to add sun protection during the daytime. 

If you have very sensitive skin, it may be best to seek advice from your dermatologist or doctor. 

ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS?

When you are first introducing Vitamin A into your skincare routine, it is advisable to build up the use. Start by applying your Vitamin A product a few times a week at night. Start with one Vitamin A product at a time. Initially, the skin may become visibly drier and/or sensitized. This is normal and part of the process in the skin, but you should not experience any appearance of temporary discomfort in the skin.

WHEN YOU USE A RETINOID, THINK OF… 

• Always finish your daily skincare routine with sun protection. This is an important step to maintain the results and healthy-looking skin.  
• Build up the use so you avoid getting any side effects. It is better to slowly increase the usage than to initially apply your Vitamin A product every day. Every other or every third night can be a good start. Only increase the use if you think that your skin can tolerate it. 
• With continued use, most people usually experience a result after 2-3 months. 
• Contact your skin expert if you have questions about your skin.

Read more about Verso´s Vitamin A heroes; Retinol 8 and NEAR 1

Best regards, 

Lena, Skin Expert Verso Skincare