SKIN DEEP

HOW TO TURN BACK TIME

Learn more about some of the most powerful weapons in the fight against signs of aging on your skin.

MIRROR, MIRROR

What’s the one thing every woman most likely has in common? The desire to age gracefully. And what’s the gold-star product most any skincare expert recommends? Retinol. What exactly is retinol, and how is that different from a retinoid or Retin-A? And most important, do these products actually work? BY MELISSA TATE WITT

First of all, "retinoid” is simply the name of the group that many of these skincare products — such as retinol and Retin-A—are categorized under. Retinol is a form of vitamin A that is naturally produced by the body. When it’s applied topically, enzymes in your skin convert retinol into retinaldehyde and then into retinoic acid. Naturally gentle because of this two-step process, this anti-aging wonder treatment stimulates collagen production to create new skin cells. This in turn reduces the appearance of fine lines, evens out complexion from sun damage and even unclogs pores! Retinol is a fantastic option for age-defying results with fewer side effects than the higherpotency prescription options, including Retin-A.

Retinol does have some downsides including potential dryness, peeling and skin irritation, so it is key to start slowly. Some folks may even see their face breakout or irritated before things get better, but that is somewhat normal as your skin adjusts. Most experts recommend pushing through it unless irritation is severe or prolonged. If needed, then switch to a lower concentration (look for “sensitive skin” formulas) or slow down the usage to one to two times a week.

RETINOL VS. RETIN-A Retin A, the brand name of tretinoin (which is another name for retinoic acid), is also a natural form of vitamin A, and is just a much more potent version of retinol. Because it does not need to be broken down by enzymes to become effective, Retin-A works much faster at treating and preventing acne, and— bonus—it treats wrinkles and those fine lines simultaneously. Although it’s a definite MVP for several skincare woes, with more power comes more potential for even greater irritation. If your dermatologist recommends Retin-A, be sure to get the full list of dos and don’ts.

Retinol is sensitive to light and air, so find a product that comes in an opaque, airless container (you know, those with the little pumps!).

GET YOU SOME:

Montgomery has several experts on this hot topic; one is the locally owned boutique Bella, which has been providing professional aesthetic services to Montgomery and the tri-county area for more than 10 years.

Because Bella has a medical director and a fully trained staff, the boutique is able to sell tretinoin 0.05 percent and 0.1 percent options. It also carries retinol 1 percent and .5 percent from Skinceuticals, as well as an option for those with super sensitive skin, Skinceuticals’ Glycolic 10 Renew Overnight, which is a great alternative for skin that doesn’t tolerate retinol or tretinoin.

Just like retinol, this product accelerates cellular turnover, refines texture and reveals a refined radiance. With this product, you still want to ease into it, and always listen to your skin. If there is a lot of peeling and sensitivity, back off a bit. Want personalized information? Stop by Bella in Peppertree Shopping Center and talk to an expert.

Ready to start your new skin-care regimen? Follow these easy tips for Retinol success:

Begin usage every other night and build up as you see how your skin tolerates it.

Start slowly, but start early. Starting a retinol treatment in your mid to late 20s will do wonders for your skin.

Add an extra-thick

moisturizer on top of the retinol treatment to help with potential dryness.

Apply preferably at night,

as retinol can increase skin sensitivity to harmful UVA rays. During the day, always use SPF 30-50 on your face.

Pay attention to your product strength (and look for products that list it). Most over-the-counter retinol options range from 0.1%-1% concentrations. Remember to start slow and ease into it.

ONE WARNING:

Don’t use it if you’re pregnant. Retinol has been linked to birth defects, so table it for later.

Be patient. Although many products claim you will see results in under six weeks, experts agree it is usually closer to three months.

PROS TO KNOW * L O CAL EXPERTS *

Local experts in areas from health to home design. Get to know some local pros.

Mary Peyton Zimmerman Medical aesthetician Aesthetica Montgomery

Specialty: The face is really her territory. Using top-shelf medical grade cosmeceuticals, she performs the most gentle facials and chemical peels,microdermabrasion and microneedling. Contact: aestheticamontgomery.com Lanie Steube Brazell Owner/Operator/Instructor Club Pilates

Specialty: As a certified Pilates instructor with over 500 hours of training, she mixes Pilates with Functional Movement to create an all over balanced and healthy body. Club Pilates offers a free trial class for everyone. Contact: clubpilates.com

John Moorer Aesthetician, Makeup Artist, and IPL Laser Technician Bella

Specialty: John has been with Bella since it opened in 2001. John is not only an expert in his skills as an aesthetician, but he offers a unique, tranquil experience unlike most.

Instagram: @bellamontgomery_ Tara Sexton Assistant Manager Montgomery Antiques & Interiors

Specialty: Curating and executing design concepts. Pulling together and breathing life into a look is a honed skill. She can bring cohesion to any room with the blending of antiques, designer interiors, and modern accents. Contact: MGMantiques.com

Dr. Mark Lindsey Laser Wellness Med Spa

Specialty: Dr. Mark Lindsey is board certified in Family Medicine and is committed to meeting the total healthcare needs of patients. He and his wife opened Laser Wellness Med Spa, which offers vitamins and supplements, medical skincare treatments and medicalgrade products. Contact: laserwellnessmedspa.com

2019 JUNE/JULY/AUG

FALL FUN

Check out some of our favorite Alabama autumn events that we think you’ll fall for.

MONTGOMERY Zoo Boo October 11 - 31

montgomeryzoo.com

Go wild at this month-long event featuring Halloweenthemed games and attractions for a scary-good time with options for all ages. Schedule varies by day.

NORTHPORT Kentuck Arts Festival October 12-13

kentuck.org

This event features more than 270 acclaimed folk, visionary and contemporary artists and craftspeople presenting their works along with free hands-on art-making activities for children, music and interactive demonstrations by basketmakers, woodworkers, potters and more.

MENTONE Mentone Colorfest October 19-20

mapamentone.com

Enjoy Northeast Alabama’s fantastic fall foliage at this annual event highlighting Mother Nature and offering s’mores, storytelling, sing-a-longs and more.

For the food lovers

GULF SHORES Oyster Cook-Off November 1-2 DIG IN

hangoutcookoff.com

IT' S OYSTER SEASON.

Taste chefs’ takes on the South’s favorite mollusk, listen to live music, enter an oyster-shucking contest, sample some of the region’s best craft beer and do it all at the beachside Hangout.

FORT TOULOUSE, WETUMPKA Alabama Frontier Days November 6-9

fttoulousejackson.org

NEVER BEEN? CHECK This annual festival brings history to life showing what it was IT OUT IN 2019 like for European and American explorers living alongside Native Americans during the mid 1700s. Historically accurate costumes, crafts, food and other demonstrations are a part of this popular event.

YOUR HEALTH

OUR MISSION

WITH UAB MEDICINE

AS OUR PARTNER,

OUR HEALTHCARE IS IN A CLASS BY ITSELF.

Our focus on building the strongest physician base across Central Alabama begins with higher education. From training outstanding medical professionals to recruiting world-class experienced physicians, our efforts result in a diverse medical staff skilled in a myriad of specialties working together to ensure quality care and successful recovery. With UAB as our partner, we’re providing outstanding healthcare and specialty services for you—close to home.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR PARTNERSHIP AT BAPTISTFIRST.ORG