Skin ageing is a natural process that can be influenced by various factors. However, there are powerful anti-ageing active ingredients that can help maintain youthful, smooth and radiant skin. In this article, we’ll explore three key ingredients: urea, glycolic acid and retinol. These ingredients have a proven track record in skin rejuvenation and have become my personal favourites for keeping skin looking young.
When we think of anti-ageing skincare, we often tend to focus on the face. However, it’s important not to neglect the rest of the body. The skin on the body also needs attention and appropriate care to remain beautiful and elastic. Urea, glycolic acid and retinol are ingredients that can bring real benefits to body skin, nourishing it deep down and stimulating cell renewal. Let’s find out how these active ingredients work and how to incorporate them into your skincare routine.
Urea: Intense hydration
Urea is an organic compound naturally present in the skin, which plays an essential role in skin hydration. It is an excellent anti-ageing active ingredient for the body, as it acts as a humectant, drawing water into the skin to keep it hydrated and supple. Using products containing urea can help prevent skin dryness, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improve overall skin texture.
Urea can also act as a gentle exfoliant, promoting cell renewal and helping to remove dead skin cells. This can help reveal smoother, brighter skin, while reducing age spots and rough patches. To reap the benefits of urea, look for body creams or lotions containing a urea concentration of around 5-10%. Apply generously to clean skin and massage gently until completely absorbed.
Glycolic acid: deep exfoliation
Glycolic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane. It is famous for its powerful exfoliating properties and its ability to improve skin texture. When used in body products, it can help remove dead skin cells, smooth roughness and reduce the appearance of scars and age spots.
By deeply exfoliating the skin, glycolic acid also promotes the production of collagen, an essential protein for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness. This can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and firm sagging skin. Glycolic acid can also improve the penetration of other active ingredients, making it a valuable ally in the fight against the signs of skin ageing.
It’s important to note that glycolic acid can cause increased sensitivity to the sun. It is therefore essential to use daily sun protection when using products containing this active ingredient. Start with a low concentration of glycolic acid, around 5%, and gradually increase if your skin tolerates it well.
Retinol: The King of Anti-Ageing
Retinol is often considered to be one of the most effective anti-ageing ingredients available on the market. It is a form of vitamin A that promotes cell renewal, stimulates collagen production and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Retinol is also known for its brightening properties, helping to reduce age spots and even out skin tone.
When used on the body, retinol can help improve the appearance of the skin, giving it a smoother texture and a more youthful appearance. It can also help reduce the appearance of stretch marks and scars. However, it’s important to start with a low concentration of retinol, usually around 0.1%, to avoid skin irritation. Apply the product to clean, dry skin, preferably in the evening, and follow with a moisturiser to minimise any potentially drying effects.
What products should I choose to rejuvenate the skin on my body?
Discover the must-have products to sublimate your body skin and reveal a youthful, radiant appearance.
Isispharma Glyco-A Body Peeling 10% for body skin
Treat your skin to a unique peeling experience with Glyco-A Body cream. Its formula, enriched with 10% glycolic acid, will soften, deeply moisturise and tone your skin. Say goodbye to roughness and discover improved skin texture. Enjoy the benefits of this ideal ally to regain supple, firm skin.
Eucerin UreaRepair Plus Emollient 5% Urea
Nourish dry, rough skin with Eucerin UreaRepair Plus Emollient Body Lotion. This powerful urea-based formula provides immediate soothing and long-lasting hydration for up to 48 hours. Thanks to its unique properties, it locks in moisture and repairs the skin barrier. Feel the sensation of soft, comfortable, perfectly moisturised skin.
A313 Ointment
Discover the benefits of A313 ointment, concentrated in vitamin A for radiant skin. With its special retinol-based formulation, this ointment offers your skin intense regeneration. Take advantage of the beneficial properties of vitamin A to improve the texture and appearance of your skin. Reveal smoother, younger-looking skin.
NHCO Isocine Firming Anti-Slackening
Take care of your skin from the inside out with NHCO Isocine Firming. This innovative dietary supplement combines marine collagen peptides, hydroxyproline complex, 3 essential amino acids, vitamin A, Zinc Amino-chelated® and vitamin D. Working in harmony, these precious ingredients help to preserve your skin’s firmness and natural beauty. Give your skin the care it deserves to keep it looking toned and rejuvenated.
FAQ
1. Are urea, glycolic acid and retinol suitable for all skin types?
Yes, these active ingredients can be used on most skin types. However, it is important to note that each skin is unique and may react differently to the products. It is recommended that you carry out a skin test before using products containing these active ingredients over a large area of the body. If you have sensitive skin or skin prone to irritation, it’s best to consult a dermatologist before incorporating these ingredients into your skincare routine.
2. Can these active ingredients be used in combination with other anti-ageing body products?
Yes, you can certainly combine these active ingredients with other anti-ageing body products, such as moisturisers or serums. However, it’s important to check the instructions for use for each product and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Avoid mixing several powerful active ingredients in a single application, as this could cause skin irritation or sensitivity. Introduce new products gradually and monitor your skin’s reaction.
3. What are the potential side effects of using these active ingredients?
Using urea, glycolic acid and retinol can cause side effects such as irritation, redness, stinging or increased sensitivity to the sun. It is important to start with a low concentration of these active ingredients and observe how your skin reacts. If you experience persistent side effects, it’s best to stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
4. How often should I use products containing these active ingredients?
The frequency of use depends on each product and your skin’s tolerance. We recommend starting with less frequent use, for example once or twice a week, then gradually increasing if your skin tolerates it well. However, be sure to follow the specific instructions supplied with each product and not to exceed the recommended frequency, as this could cause skin irritation.
5. Can I use these active ingredients during pregnancy or when breast-feeding?
If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, it is important to consult your doctor before using any new skin products, including those containing these active ingredients. Some studies have suggested that high concentrations of retinol could present potential risks during pregnancy. It is best to take extra precautions and follow the recommendations of your healthcare professional.
6. Where can I buy products containing these active ingredients?
You can find products containing urea, glycolic acid and retinol in pharmacies, parapharmacies and shops specialising in skin care products. Make sure you choose reputable brands and check the ingredients to ensure the concentration and quality of the active ingredients. You can also find a variety of products online, but make sure you buy from trusted sellers.
