SKINCARE EDUCATION 101

Original Source:WebMD    Reviewed by Mohiba Tareen, MD

Faster and lighter are the qualities many of us look for in a car, a laptop, and our bodies when we're running a marathon. They're also the prized attributes of skin care serums -- light, fast-absorbing liquids used as an alternative or in addition to creams or lotions.
The biggest difference between a serum and a cream or lotion is what the formulation doesn't include. Serums leave out occlusive, or airtight, moisturizing ingredients such as petrolatum or mineral oil that keep water from evaporating. They also contain fewer lubricating and thickening agents, like nut or seed oils. Most serums are water-based, eliminating oils altogether.
Serums are a top pick of many skin care pros, including Ni'Kita Wilson, a cosmetic chemist and vice president of research and innovation at Englewood Lab. Wilson chooses a serum instead of a cream for her own at-home regimen: "It works better for my oily skin, and it has every ingredient I need."
Esthetician Veronica Barton-Schwartz, owner of Veronica Skin and Body Care Center in Malibu, Calif., who counts celebrities Olivia Newton-John, Suzanne Somers, and Cher among her clients, is also a fan. "I think everyone is doing their skin a disservice if they don't have a great serum."
"The beauty of a serum is that most of the fluid is eliminated," Wilson says, "so what you're left with is a high concentration of active ingredients." Serums contain the most potent dose of anti-aging ingredients -- antioxidants, peptides, and skin brighteners such as kojic acid -- you can find in nonprescription products. "They're the true workhorses of any product line," Wilson says.
Serum Costs, Serum Benefits
Because active ingredients are more expensive than thickeners, serums are also the costliest product in many skin care lines. But when applied properly, a 1-ounce container of serum should last months. Many brands come in pump bottles or have medicine-dropper applicators to dispense just the tiny amount you need.
Those few concentrated drops are super-efficient. Serums are made of very small molecules, so the skin absorbs them quickly and deeply. "The thicker, heavier ingredients in creams form a barrier on your skin," Wilson says. "That's great for locking moisture in. But it can also lock active ingredients out. Without these hindrances, the active ingredients in a serum penetrate your skin faster and more effectively."
Jessica Wu, MD, a Santa Monica, Calif., dermatologist, and author of Feed Your Face: Younger, Smoother Skin and a Beautiful Body in 28 Delicious Days, recommends serums to many of her patients. "They're great for people with oily skin," she says, "or those who prefer a weightless feel to their skin care products. Serums have a non-greasy finish and they don't leave behind a sticky residue."
Others need the hydration that a rich day or night cream provides. "If you have mature or dry skin, you can't get away with using just a serum," says Wilson. Instead, she recommends a serum as an add-on to your skin care regimen, layered under your moisturizer. "There's a lot of benefit to serums, from smoothing fine lines to reducing age spots, that you can't reproduce in any other formulation," she says.

How to Apply Serums
Adding a serum to your daily beauty routine? Here's how to apply these lightweight elixirs for maximum effect.
1.  After cleansing your face, apply a pea-sized amount of serum, patting it evenly over skin with your finger.
2. If you have sensitive skin, wait 10 to 15 minutes after washing your face before using serum. "When your skin is damp, applying a water-based product is more likely to lead to irritation," says dermatologist Wu. "Allowing your skin to dry completely slows down penetration."
3. You don't need to skip the moisturizer you love. Just pat on your serum first, so it isn't blocked from penetrating your skin. 
4. Is your serum too pricey for twice-a-day use? Borrow this trick from cosmetic chemist Wilson. Use the serum as a booster either a.m. or p.m., applying a couple of drops to your face before applying moisturizer.

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2024 update: 

A more comprehensive in-depth guide about "thickeners in cosmetics" which has a far more detailed explanation (by Paul Martin): https://cosmetics.specialchem.com/selection-guide/thickeners

1. L-Ascorbic Acid (AA) is vitamin C in its purest form. This unstable, water-soluble antioxidant seems to be the key to benefiting from the nutrient's skin-rejuvenating powers. It is powerful. But it oxidizes very easily. When it oxidizes, it turns yellow or orange and looses its effectiveness. 

2. Also important to ascorbic acid's effectiveness is its pH level. The lower the pH level of AA, the more stable, permeable and, therefore, effective it is. When its pH level is too high, it oxidizes, degrades and becomes inactive - or sometimes even a harbor for dangerous free radical formation.But if the PH level is too low, it is more likely to cause irritation on your skin.

3. What can be frustrating when shopping for the perfect vitamin C serum is the fact that the ideal, potent formula sometimes tends to irritate the skin. Still, there is a solution: using a topical based product with no water will be less irritating since most of the inflammation is caused by hydrogen ions generated by acid disassociating in water. Joyal Beauty Super Brightening Vitamin C Serum is NOT water-based formula. It is liquid texture but it is organic aloe and herbal infusion based with less irritation and more soothing functions. 

4. Ascorbic acid is certainly a tricky substance in terms of stabilization and absorption. And sometimes, even if you do find a formula without water, it might still cause redness or other signs of irritation. Joyal Beauty Vitamin C Serum use SAP to avoid such side effects of AA. 

5. Luckily, there are other options to explore for those seeking the advantages vitamin C has to offer. Synthesized vitamin C derivatives, including ascorbyl palmitate, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, ascorbyl tetra-isopalmitoyl, tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, and sodium ascorbyl phosphate (SAP) are more stable and less irritating than ascorbic acid (AA). 

6. Ascorbyl palmitate (AP) is a vitamin C ester, which means that it has been esterified to a fatty acid. It is fat soluble as opposed to the water-soluble ascorbic acid, which may hinder its ability to penetrate skin. Also, ascorbyl palmitate produces different short and long-term effects compared with ascorbic acid.

7.Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate (MAP) is similar to ascorbic acid in that it is water-soluble. However, it also has what AA lacks: a gentle effect on skin, efficacy in lower concentrations, and stability at a neutral pH. In one study, researchers discovered that it was statistically more effective than ascorbyl tetra-isopalmitoyl in free radical reduction, although less so than AA. However, it does seem to better quench the deeper layers of skin than ascorbic acid.

8. Ascorbyl tetra-isopalmitoyl (ATIP) is a vitamin C derivative. It is stable, due to being fat soluble and less irritating than ascorbyl acid. There is a 2006 study that concluded that it can suppress UV-induced skin pigmentation at a 3% dose. Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate plays nice with vitamins A and E and UV filters. One study published in Dermatologic Surgery in 2002 showed that a topical formulation combining 10% vitamin C and 7% tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate improved hydration and collagen synthesis in the skin and resulted in "clinically visible and statistically significant improvement in wrinkling" after 12 weeks. A 2009 study claims that it can actually prevent UV damage occurring.However, ATIP seems to be a poor performer when it comes to penetrating skin.

9. Sodium ascorbyl phosphate (SAP)(Joyal Beauty Super Brightening Vitamin C Serum) is known to promote collagen formation, and its ability to be stabilized for at least 24 months if it is stored in the original sealed containers at 25 degrees Celsius. With SAP form you do not have to keep it at low PH level to remain its stability, so it is less irritating comparing to AA and it can adjust your skin PH level perfectly better than regular toner. It is also being lauded as an effective acne fighter! Ferulic Acid is a potent antioxidant with synergistic interactions with Vitamin C. Its incorporation into a topical solution of vitamin C+E improved chemical stability of the vitamins C+E and doubled photo-protection to solar-simulated irradiation of skin from 4-fold to approximately 8-fold as measured by both erythema and sunburn cell formation.

10. Proper product formulation can extend the stability of a C serum (which is partly why vitamin C products are so expensive), but you also have to take good care of your vitamin c serum by storing it in a cool, dark place and re-sealing it tightly after each application. Dark container with pump is the best packaging of vitamin c serum. Sunlight, heat, air, water, and even time can all destabilize and render ineffective even the best-formulated vitamin C product. Dark container with treatment pump is the best packaging of vitamin c serum. This type of packaging will help extend its stability and keep it fresh.

Written by: Alexander J. Michels, Ph.D. Linus Pauling Institute. Oregon State University
Reviewed by: Zoe Diana Draelos, M.D. Consulting Professor. Department of Dermatology.Duke University School of Medicine Durham, NC

Overview

The antioxidant properties of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and its role in collagen synthesis make vitamin C a vital molecule for skin health. Dietary and topical ascorbic acid have beneficial effects on skin cells, and some studies have shown that vitamin C may help prevent and treat ultraviolet (UV)-induced photodamage. However, the effects of vitamin C in the skin are not well understood due to limited research. This article discusses the potential roles of vitamin C in the skin and summarizes the current knowledge about vitamin C in skin health.

Content and Availability

Vitamin C is a normal skin constituent that is found at high levels in both the dermis and epidermis. The vitamin C content of the epidermis is higher than the dermis, although the vitamin C concentrations in both layers are approximately equal to that of other water-soluble antioxidants, including uric acid and glutathione. Aging, however, causes a decline in vitamin C content in both the epidermis and dermis. Excessive exposures to UV light or pollutants (e.g., cigarette smoke and ozone) may also lower vitamin C content, primarily in the epidermis.

Vitamin C in the skin is normally transported from the bloodstream. Transport proteins specific for ascorbic acid are found on cells in all layers of the skin. Keratinocytes have a high capacity for vitamin C transport, possibly to compensate for limited vascularization of the epidermis. Oral supplementation with vitamin C effectively increases vitamin C levels in the skin . However, when plasma vitamin C levels are saturated, skin vitamin C concentrations no longer increase. Optimum skin concentrations of the vitamin are not yet known.

Topical Application

Vitamin C can be provided to the skin through topical application. The stratum corneum is the primary obstacle to efficient vitamin C absorption from external sources; removal of the stratum corneum by laser, chemical, or mechanical methods enhances absorption. Although similar studies are still required for humans, studies in laboratory animals show that percutaneous vitamin C absorption greatly depends on pH. Preparations with a pH below 4.0 aid in transport by promoting the uncharged form of vitamin C, ascorbic acid. Although concentrations of vitamin C up to 30% have been used for animal studies, maximal absorption was achieved with a 20% vitamin C solution, with higher concentrations showing lower absorption. Topical application of ascorbic acid will cross the epidermis into the underlying dermal layers.

The stability of vitamin C in topical solutions is a concern, as exposures to air, heat, and/or light may slowly degrade vitamin C. Although the natural form of vitamin C, ascorbic acid, is the most effective for topical administration, it is the least stable in solution. However, stable synthetic derivatives, such as ascorbate phosphate, are considered to have limited permeability and function in skin.  Another stable lipid-soluble derivative, ascorbyl palmitate, also has limited absorption, and one in vitro study with cultured skin cells found that the administration of ascorbyl palmitate had some toxic effects. Yet, the stability of topical vitamin C solutions may be increased by the addition of other antioxidant compounds (e.g: ferulic acid increases the stability of vitamin c).

Human studies with subjects using topically applied solutions of 0.6%-10.0% vitamin C or its synthetic derivatives have not reported adverse effects.

Deficiency

Symptoms of vitamin C deficiency (knowns as scurvy) appear once plasma concentrations of ascorbic acid drop below 10 micromolar, a level that can be prevented by consuming as little as 10 mg of ascorbic acid daily. Cutaneous manifestations of scurvy result from declines in collagen synthesis, leading to disruption of connective tissue and fragility of blood vessels. Early symptoms in the skin include a thickening of the stratum corneum and spots of small subcutaneous bleeding. As scurvy progresses, wound healing is impaired due to the loss of mature collagen, which allows wounds to remain open. Skin lesions caused by vitamin C deficiency are remediated by an adequate intake of vitamin C.

Functions in Healthy Skin

Photoprotection

Vitamin C limits the damage induced by ultraviolet (UV) light exposure. Vitamin C is not a “sunscreen” because it does not absorb light in the UVA or UVB spectrum. Rather, the antioxidant activity of vitamin C protects against UV-induced damage caused by free radicals . Vitamin C transport proteins are increased in keratinocytes in response to UV light, suggesting an increased need for vitamin C uptake for adequate protection.

UV light decreases vitamin C content of skin, an effect that is dependent on the intensity and duration of UV exposure. In cultured keratinocytes, the addition of vitamin C reduces UV-related DNA damage and lipid peroxidation, limits the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and protects against apoptosis. Vitamin C also modulates redox-sensitive cell signaling in cultured skin cells and consequently increases cell survival following UV exposure.

In two rodent studies, addition of ascorbic acid to the diet reduced the size and number of dermal neoplasms and skin tumors induced by chronic UV exposure. To date, no other studies with UV exposure and oral ascorbic acid supplementation in animal models have been published.

In two human studies, oral vitamin C supplementation alone did not significantly increase Minimal Erythemal Dose (MED), a measure of photoprotection from UV light in skin. Overall, limited data suggest that vitamin C consumption alone provides insufficient antioxidant protection against UV irradiation. However, multiple studies have found that oral supplementation with a combination of vitamin C and vitamin E effectively increases MED and decreases erythema-induced blood flow to damaged areas of skin . Thus, interactions between the two antioxidant vitamins may be necessary to achieve UV protection by dietary means.

Topical application of vitamin C, alone or in combination with other compounds, may result in greater photoprotection than oral supplementation because of the more direct route of administration. In one mouse study, topical application of ascorbic acid delayed the effects of chronic high-dose UVB exposure on the skin, including a reduction in skin wrinkling and the development of skin tumors. In pig models, topical application of vitamin C reduced the number of sunburned cells, decreased erythema response, and reduced DNA damage induced by UVA exposure. Topically applied combinations of vitamin C and vitamin E are more effective in preventing photodamage than either vitamin alone. In particular, this combination of antioxidant vitamins decreased the immunosuppressive effects of UV exposure , increased MED, and decreased cell damage.

Limited human studies are available on photoprotection by topical application of vitamin C. Although topical ascorbic acid reduces radicals in UV-exposed human skin , only one study examined its effect on UV-induced erythemal response; this study reported no significant benefit of topical vitamin C . Like animal research, human studies using combinations of vitamin C and vitamin E have documented UV protective effects.

Photodamage/Wrinkling

The accumulation of oxidative damage to proteins is a distinguishing feature of both photodamage (photoaging) and intrinsic aging; such oxidative damage can lead to changes in skin structure. In addition to its antioxidant functions, vitamin C regulates the synthesis of the structural protein collagen. The role of vitamin C in the hydroxylation of collagen molecules is well characterized . Hydroxylation of collagen is necessary for its extracellular stability and support of the epidermis.

In cell culture models, vitamin C supplementation has many beneficial effects in combating photodamage. Specifically, vitamin C has been shown to stabilize collagen mRNA, thus increasing collagen protein synthesis for repair of the damaged skin . This occurs concurrently with a decrease in elastin production; the elastin protein is often overproduced in response to photodamage. Vitamin C also increases the proliferation rate of fibroblasts, a capacity that is decreased with age . Further, vitamin C stimulates DNA repair in cultured fibroblasts .

Human studies often assess skin health by changes in depth or number of wrinkles and by the individual’s perception of skin health. Two observational studies found that higher intakes of vitamin C from the diet were associated with better skin appearance, with notable decreases in skin wrinkling. The use of vitamin C (3-10%) in topical applications for at least 12 weeks has been shown to decrease wrinkling, reduce protein fiber damage, decrease apparent roughness of skin, and increase production of collagen. Topical vitamin C has also been shown to reverse some of the age-related structural changes in the interface between the dermis and the epidermis . However, the effects of topical vitamin C are not apparent in all individuals, and interestingly, one study found that individuals with high dietary intakes of vitamin C showed no or little effect of a topical administration.

Wound Healing

One of the distinctive features of scurvy is poor wound healing. Vitamin C levels decrease rapidly at a wound site . Although inflammatory responses often increase free radicals at the site of injury and the presence of vitamin C may limit free radical damage, free radicals may play a complex role in the healing response that is not yet understood . However, the increased demand for dermal collagen synthesis may increase utilization of vitamin C. Vitamin C may have additional roles in wound healing, for example, by promoting keratinocyte differentiation , stimulating the formation of the epidermal barrier, and re-establishing the stratum corneum.

Studies on the effect of vitamin C supplementation on wound healing have reported somewhat mixed results. Data from laboratory animals and humans show that vitamin C deficiency results in poor wound healing, and vitamin C supplementation in deficient individuals shows significant benefits . Although vitamin C levels appear to increase collagen synthesis and decrease inflammatory responses at the site of the wound, neither vitamin C supplementation or increased plasma vitamin C status  increases wound closure time in otherwise healthy individuals. This suggests that vitamin C may only affect specific facets of the wound healing response. Topical ascorbic acid has not been properly evaluated prior to or during wound healing in humans.

Vitamin C is included in oral therapies for pressure ulcers (bed sores) and burns, along with vitamin E, zinc, and other nutritive factors .

Dry Skin

Higher intakes of dietary vitamin C have been correlated with a decreased risk of dry skin , suggesting that ascorbic acid may have effects on trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL). In cell culture models, addition of vitamin C promotes the synthesis of barrier lipids, which would establish a functioning stratum corneum with low water permeability . One study using topical vitamin C in human subjects correlated its use with decreased skin roughness . However, another study suggested vitamin C increased TEWL when applied to the skin . Thus, the effects of vitamin C on skin dryness are not clear.

Other Effects

Environmental pollutants, such as ozone, can decrease vitamin C levels in the skin and lead to free radical damage. Smoking also leads to increased wrinkling and decreased collagen synthesis, which corresponds to a decline in plasma vitamin C levels ; however, it is unclear if this correlates to lower vitamin C levels in skin. Topical ascorbic acid has not been evaluated against pollution-related damage.

Topical vitamin C may be useful against acne to reduce inflammatory lesions. However, studies have primarily focused on the use of sodium ascorbyl phosphate, a synthetic derivative that may be poorly absorbed by the skin . Topical vitamin C may also have mild skin lightening effects that are caused by reductions in melanin production and melanin oxidation.

Conclusion

Vitamin C is an essential part of skin health both as a small molecular weight antioxidant and as a critical factor for collagen synthesis. Vitamin C contributes to photoprotection, decreases photodamage, and is needed for adequate wound healing. Oral supplementation with vitamin C may help prevent UV-induced damage, especially in combination with supplemental vitamin E. Dietary vitamin C may also provide photoprotection, but the extent of the protective effects will require additional research. Topical application of vitamin C appears to be an effective route for delivering ascorbic acid to the skin because ascorbic acid appears to be taken up readily at an acidic pH. Despite inconsistencies in vitamin C preparations and study design, the data suggest that vitamin C is most effective in protecting against damage induced by UV light and also has utility in the treatment of photodamage and/or skin wrinkling. Although vitamin C appears to benefit dry skin and may support wound healing, further research is needed to determine the effect of vitamin C on both. Lastly, the greatest effects of vitamin C supplementation are seen when it is combined with other micronutrients, such as vitamin E and zinc.

1.Retinol rejuvenates the skin. This vitamin A derivative helps skin produce collagen, a natural component of the dermis that gives skin its youthful, full appearance. According to a 2007 study, published in The Archives of Dermatology, 36 participants age 80 and older applied a formula with 0.4 percent retinol to one arm up to three times a week. After 24 weeks, these participants had dramatic improvements in their skin that were “clearly visible to the naked eye,” reports dermatologist Leslie Baumann, M.D., on her Yahoo! blog, The Skin Guru. Also, “skin biopsies revealed that that arm had more of the building blocks that make skin smooth and resilient than the untreated arm,” Leesa Suzman writes about the study in Good Housekeeping.

2.Retinol gives skin an overall healthier appearance. Retinol can help reduce discoloration, fine lines, wrinkles and skin texture. Plus, it can improve skin tone and color for generally younger-looking, even skin.

3. Retinol stimulates cell turnover. Exfoliating is essential for youthful-looking, healthy skin. By removing dead skin cells, new, healthier cells are able to come through. Your complexion also looks smoother and products are able to sink deep into the skin. This way, your skin can effectively absorb potent ingredients. With a pile of dead skin cells on your face, products have a tough time penetrating this top layer and can’t work.

4. Retinol addresses acne. While retinol works to reduce telltale signs of aging, it also treats “acne-ridden skin,” dermatologist Heidi A. Waldorf. M.D., tells Allure. Adult acne is common, affecting 50 percent of women. Dealing with both aging and acenic skin can be particularly distressing. Fortunately, because of retinol’s exfoliating benefits, it can help treat acne. That’s because dead skin cells can clog pores and contribute to acne. By getting rid of dead skin cells, retinol improves and prevents breakouts.

5. Retinol is less irritating than retinoids. Also a vitamin A derivative, retinoids are only available by prescription from your dermatologist. Though they’re more potent than their over-the-counter counterparts, retinoids are also more irritating to the skin with potential side effects like peeling and redness. Retinol is gentler because it gradually converts to retinoic acid, which is the active ingredient in prescription treatments. Some people simply can’t tolerate retinoids. So retinol is ideal for those individuals along with anyone with sensitive or easily irritated skin and those trying retinoids for the first time. Plus, retinol can pave the way to retinoids, because it helps your skin get used to retinoic acid.

It depends on your skin. Retinol is proven to be very effective for anti-aging but it is not overnight solution. You need to build your skin tolerance for any retinol products and be very patient to see the results. Sometimes "less is more" and "slow is fast" for using retinol products.  Do you know what percentage of retinol you are looking for? You need to do your research before making any purchase decisions.  

1. Low-Strength Retinol Treatments (0.01%-0.03%): Suitable for Most of People
Despite retinol's reputation as an anti-aging workhorse, not everyone's skin can tolerate it, or maybe can tolerate it only in low doses, especially if used daily.What Results You Can Expect: Don't think that low levels of retinol won't be beneficial, because they are! Research published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology has shown that concentrations of 0.01% retinol and up are indeed effective for improving the health and appearance of the skin. The important thing to keep in mind is that this research does not include the additional benefits derived from combining retinol with antioxidants, skin-repairing ingredients, and cell-communicating ingredients.

Research has also shown that low amounts of retinol paired with other antioxidants helps protect the skin against UV damage when worn under a broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day. (Don't forget about that daily SPF.)

2. Moderate-Strength Retinol Treatments: Suitable for Most of People, But Not For Eczema Skin  ( 0.04% - 0.1%)
Research published in Skin Pharmacology and Physiology demonstrated that retinol concentrations at 0.04% and up improve visible signs of photo aging (meaning sun damage), stimulate collagen production, and improve the strength of thinning skin. A 2009 study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology showed that over the course of 8 weeks, 0.1% retinol proved an impressive treatment for improving lines ("crow's feet"), wrinkles, discolorations, and skin firmness.

3. High-Strength Retinol: Not for Everyone-But it Can Deliver Prescription-Like Results! (0.5%-1%)

IMPORTANT: 1% retinol is the HIGHEST amount of retinol allowed by Health Canada for over-the-counter products! The FDA also allows up to 1% retinol in over-the-counter brands!

For some, moderate levels of retinol may not provide the results they had hoped for-whether their concerns are treating advanced sun damage, enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, wrinkles, acne-prone skin, or all of the above. If your skin has tolerated moderate-strength retinol treatments, and you want to see if you can get even better results, it's time to consider something stronger.

High-strength retinol treatments are products that contain 0.5% retinol and up, with the sweet spot in terms of effectiveness versus reduced potential for side effects (redness, flaking) being around 1%.

What Results You Can Expect: A study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology showed a significant increase in collagen synthesis with daily use of a 1% retinol formula-in just seven days. That means dramatic (and more rapid) results in addressing concerns that might not have responded to lower-strength formulas.

It's important to note that as you gradually increase the concentration of retinol, you might see your skin's tolerance level dropping-meaning you should stick with (and can absolutely benefit from) products with low to moderate concentrations of retinol.

Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment-A powerhouse dose of 1% retinol combined with antioxidants, and plant-based anti-irritants. This retinol serum formula tackles your toughest aging concerns. In fact, 1% retinol is essentially equivalent to a prescription retinoid product that contains 0.02% tretinoin. Tretinoin is the most potent form of retinoid. (Retinoid is the name for all forms of vitamin A.)

4. Extremely High Retinol: Not for Most of People, But Still OK for Some Long-time Retinol Users (>1%)
So far we can only find 2.5% products from some small online beauty sellers and have not found that well-known skin brands (e.g: well-known brand ROC is 0.01%) have such a high dose products, because strong 2.5% retinol is NOT following FDA regulation and not for everyone. Competing on higher 2%-2.5% percentage is meaningless. Higher does not mean better. Sometimes higher percentage means more side effects. That's why many well known companies do not even want to disclose their retinol percentage on labels because simply pursuing higher percentage is unnecessary and dangerous direction. Bio-active retinol is more important!  We tested 2.5% retinol products for several months on a testing group of people and found that 2.5% is too strong and has side effects for 70% of our testing group. Some long-time retinol users might carefully consider to increase their level to 2.5% if their skin is tolerant with such a high retinol level and only if they do not care about any FDA and Health Canada's regulations regarding percentage of over the counter retinol.    

For most of people, 1% retinol is the best high percentage to avoid side effects (redness, dryness, flaking, breakouts etc.) while remaining the most effectiveness. Joyal Beauty Retinol Correcting Serum (1%) is strictly following FDA regulation. It is skin-friendly and can be easier to build up the tolerance.On continuous usage, you will achieve the best results.  

When skin is exposed to the sun, it causes an increase in the production of cells known as melanocytes that increase melanin in the skin, thus turning the skin darker. These dark skin patches are known as brown spots, age spots, dark spots, sun spots etc. Some of the main causes of brown spots are sun exposure, aging, and genetics. Factors like stress, pregnancy, vitamin c and vitamin a deficiencies, and weak liver functioning may also contribute to this problem. 
Avoiding sun exposure and applying Vitamin C Serum are key factors to avoid brown spots. Before applying our vitamin c serum, you may use lemon juice or buttermilk to exfoliate your skin because buttermilk contains lactic acid that helps exfoliate the skin to remove blemishes and brown spots without drying out your skin. 
Also apple cider vinegar is an effective remedy for a number of skin problems including brown spots. It will help dry out and fade the spots faster. 
Horseradish is also a fantastic herb that helps remove age spots and freckles and makes your skin spotless, thanks to its skin lightening properties. Our exfoliating serum Ultra Brightening Age Defy Serum contains horseradish and kojic acid,which is very good to be used with our Super Brightening Vitamin C Serum at the same time to lighten or get rid of brown spots.It also contains two exfoliants --- glycolic & salicylic acid. They gently slough off dead cells, instantly brightening skin. Removing this top layer improves the penetration of active ingredients, making the lightener more effective.
The anti-ager does more than just fight wrinkles — it also targets hyperpigmentation. It's excellent at speeding cell turnover. As brown spots start to form, retinol keeps them from reaching their full maturity. Find it in Joyal Beauty Retinol Correcting Serum. And apply broad-spectrum sunscreen daily; otherwise spots will return, no matter which fading treatment you use.
If your age spot is too dark and exists for many years and you want the quickest results, you might need to see your dermatologist to seek for clinical treatments such as laser treatment, which might be the fastest way to get rid of it.

1. Kojic Acid
The best place given to kojic acid and that is justice. Its strength and effective functionality fairly puts it in 1st place. Furthermore, kojic suppresses enzyme tyrosinase production in the body and impede melanin formation. With this, skin whitening guaranteed. Primarily, kojic acid produced from mushroom family and fermented by-product used to produce 'rice wines'. Additionally, lately, the ingredient has confirmed its excellence over other whitener substances.
Shop Joyal Beauty Ultra Brightening Age Defy Serum ( Kojic Acid Serum)now.  



2. Mulberry
Mulberry awarded with silver medal, a compound produced from mulberry plant roots. Mulberry is far better than its other alternatives like hydroquinone and kojic acid. A small amount of mulberry has much stronger effect compared to high amounts of hydroquinone and kojic acid.
3. Alpha Arbutin
Alpha arbutin is more effective and powerful unlike other arbutin.
4. Beta Arbutin
Arbutin is a superb ingredient produced from the bearberry leaves, cranberry, and blueberry. Its primary goal is to prevent tyrosinase production in the body.
5. Glutathione
Number 5 place goes to glutathione. Glutathione is really a pioneer in whitening systems. It often found in soaps, ointments, lotions and perhaps in pills. Its antioxidant properties help you to get whiter skin.
6. Licorice Root
Licorice is a great ingredient for skin whitening purpose and well-known for its special ability to suppress tyrosinase (melanin production catalyst) production. The substance has anti-inflammatory components hence can lessen sunburn effects.
Shop Joyal Beauty Ultra Brightening Age Defy Serum ( Licorice Serum) now. 

7. Papaya
It is a great inclusion to your cream since it helps you to get glowing skin by removing the dead skins. Papaya enzymes can do amazing things and many beauty soaps have this substance.
8. Vitamin A
Oftentimes it called as retinol. It boosts skin reproduction process and improves vision too. It can give healthy and restored skin along with whiter skin.
Shop Joyal Beauty Retinol Correcting Serum now. 
9. Vitamin B3
It generally called niacin amide due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory abilities. It restrains melanin production. It gives you utterly lighter skin.
10. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a recognized anti-oxidant that decreases skin-aging process. Vitamin C is the safest way to brighten skin. Vitamin C can cut down melanin production in the skin a minimum of 10%. Additionally, Vitamin C contains magnesium phosphate, which is common in most whitening products. Moreover, vitamin C has the power to defend skin from the UV lights.
Shop #1 top rated Joyal Beauty Super Brightening Vitamin C now.

Wrinkles are the inevitable signs of aging we can’t avoid unless we go under the knife, lasers, or chemical peels, but they’re expensive and only lessen the appearance. Nature has a way of supplying what we need, and as long as we know what we’re looking for, we can find our at-home remedies throughout our kitchen and bathroom cabinets.
While genes do play a role in the aging process, the actions you take control many of the processes’ speed and level of damage. Take control and try an inexpensive banana face mask or set time aside for a 30-second face massage every morning to prevent and treat fine lines and wrinkles.
12 Hacks And Home Remedies To Naturally Prevent Wrinkles:

1. Oils

Coconut oil is rich in antioxidants and can prevent the formation of free radicals that are one of the primary causes of early aging. It’s a natural skin-softening moisturizer and contains emollient, which helps reduce wrinkles that have already developed. Massage into your skin each night before bed to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while you sleep.

Olive oil was first used over 5,000 years ago when it was extracted from the olive tree, which Egyptians quickly adapted as a cosmetic product. It’s used more often as a moisturizer because it’s rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and E, which also help to fight the skin-damaging free radicals. Take a tablespoon of olive oil and massage it gently into the skin twice a day. It also works to protect against sun damage and after exposure.

2. Superfoods

Your skin is a combination of proteins, water, and fats, and it needs a healthy food supply for replenishment. Almonds pack skin-plumping and hydrating fats along with vitamin E, while a powerful antioxidant helps deter UV damage. Blueberries have a very concentrated combination of antioxidants and collagen-protecting vitamin C. Tomatoes are also packed with vitamin C, but they have the important component lycopene, which protects skin from sun damage and improves the vascular system, which will give you a natural glow thanks to the extra blood circulation.

3. Banana Mask

This powerfully healthy fruit isn’t just good for eating, but can also be used as a creamy face mask. Mash one banana up with a teaspoon of orange juice and a teaspoon of plain yogurt, then leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes. The vitamin A will help fade dark spots and blemishes, while vitamin B will prevent aging, and potassium will moisturize and hydrate skin cells. Vitamin E is known as “the protector” because of its strength in fighting free radical damage and bolstering the skin’s resistance to UV damage.

4. Topical Vitamin C
When you’re young, your skin is full of this critical vitamin. However, as skin ages it lessens over time but is still needed and plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy, resilient skin. By replenishing your skin’s vitamin C levels through an oral supplement or exfoliating with topical vitamin C every morning, you can repair sun damage, such as discoloration and fine lines. A rare side effect is dryness or flaking, which can be counteracted with a daily moisturizer post-vitamin C application. Add Joyal Beauty #1 Top Rated Vitamin C Serum to your daily skincare regimen today. 

5. Minerals

Selenium can be used as a preventive wrinkle treatment and functions as a powerful antioxidant. It neutralizes free radicals in the skin before they cause damage and restores any elasticity the skin may have lost from aging.

Copper is an essential mineral used to form collagen, elastin, and form as support and structure. It’s not advised to consume copper because it’s only needed in small amount, but a cream containing copper peptides helps to improve the skin’s clarity, decrease fine lines, wrinkles, and photodamage, according to WebMD.
Zinc is important if you tend to have breakouts or acne because it works to clear skin and tame oil production. It also helps heal acne scars or lesions that have already formed.

6. Egg White Mask

Mix together one egg white with a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice and half a teaspoon of honey to reap the antiseptic and antibacterial benefits of honey along with the astringents in lemon juice used to fight off bacteria. Those with oily skin will benefit most from the powerful ingredients in egg whites. It helps to tighten, tone, and shrink pores by reducing excess sebum, otherwise known as the oil secretion from your pores.

Egg whites are full of protein for tissue repair and growth, potassium to preserve the moisture in skin cells, fiboflavin to eliminate toxins and free radicals that are known to cause wrinkles, and magnesium, which slows down the aging process and makes skin radiant. Egg whites also contain lysozyme, which digests the cell walls of acne-causing bacteria.

7. Silky Sleep

Pillows made of satin or high thread counts are a worthy investment when it comes to wrinkle reduction. We spend a third of our lives sleeping, and having a soft place to rest our impressionable skin can change the way our skin resists or creates wrinkles.The American Academy of Dermatology recommends sleeping on your back to avoid sleep lines that can become etched into the surface of the skin. Sleeping on your side increases wrinkles on the cheeks and chin, and sleeping face-down can give you a furrowed brow.

8. Massage

Give yourself a massage with a do-it-yourself acupressure treatment. Use your index and middle finger on one hand to massage 20 rotations between your brows. Apply light pressure to each temple for 10 seconds and then to the jaw joint for another 10 seconds while clenching your teeth gently. It’ll smooth skin and relax the muscles from making unnecessary micromovements that cause wrinkles from tension and stress.

9. Lemon Juice Honey Dab

A simple remedy to reduce the appearance of wrinkles just before you head out the door, put on your makeup, or wash your face, is known as the lemon juice honey dab. Apply a thing layer of lemon juice mixed with honey on your face for 10 minutes to tighten skin then rinse off, feel fresh, and smell nice. The honey contains humectant, which preserves moisture in skin cells, while the lemon boosts collagen production.

10. Cucumber Yogurt Blend

Puree half a cucumber with mint leaves, mix in half a cup of Greek yogurt, and throw it in the fridge for a cool, naturally hydrating face mask. One cucumber contains B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, folic acid, vitamin C, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, and zinc. It tightens, lightens, hydrates, and tones the skin, while protecting it from dryness, peeling, or cracking. The smorgasbord of vitamins will help to guard from inflammation, and neutralize free radicles, which are known to cause premature aging.

11. Aloe Vera

The clear gel inside an aloe vera plant has wound-healing and soothing effects when applied to the skin, especially after sunbathing thanks to the vitamins and minerals it contains. Having an aloe vera plant inside your home or growing in your garden is convenient and less expensive than buying the gel by itself because the leaves regrow after they’re cut or removed from the base. Sunburns are one of the quickest ways to damage and wrinkle skin, so applying gel can ease the healing process with its anti-inflammatory properties. Add Joyal Beauty aloe vera based #1 Top Rated After Sun Care- Vitamin C Serum to your daily skincare regimen today. 

12. Juice Cleanses
The skin runs on vitamins, minerals, and hydration, so what better way to treat your skin right than by feeding it what it wants? Juicing involves three-day cleanses that contain the best skin-nourishing vitamins and minerals through various fruits and vegetables.

1.Watch your diet
One should avoid food such as doughnuts, wheat bread, and soda and baked potatoes. Removing sugary and starchy products from your diet will help you control acne and will keep you healthy in the long run.

2. Stress and acne
Physical, as well as, emotional stress has been proven to trigger off acne breakouts in some people. Try and reduce stress whether they are related to your workplace or personal life in order to get rid of acne.

3. Wrong cosmetics and acne
Another common factor responsible for causing acne is the use of certain kinds of cosmetics and cleansing products. Avoid using greasy or harsh products or those whose ingredients you are allergic to. These products tend to clog your skin pores and irritate your skin, and result into acne breakouts. Instead, use non-comedogenic Joyal Beauty Ultimate Brightening Age Defy Serum and Retinol Correcting Serum to clear your acne and shrink your pores.

4. Wipe your sweat
When you are out in the hot sun, you tend to perspire a lot. Your perspiration contains all manner of toxins and impurities, so make sure you have a towel handy to wipe off the greasy sweat. Sweating keeps your skin cleansed naturally, but needs to be wiped off at regular intervals in order to prevent acne breakouts.

5. Facial hygiene
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser at regular intervals. Splashing fresh water on your facial skin rejuvenates it and the hydration prevents acne and pimples.

6. Include Fruits and vegetables in your diet
Eat lots of green vegetables and fresh fruits. These foods not only work wonders for your overall health, they are also vital sources of antioxidants, vitamins and other essential nutrients that erase the signs of acne and heal acne ridden skin.

7.Not just water but lots of it
Make sure you drink up lots of water throughout the day. Water flushes toxins and other impurities from your system and keeps your skin cleansed and hydrated.

8. Avoid a sedentary lifestyle
Try and remain physically active. Yoga and exercises improve your skin tone and boost metabolism.

9.Use comfortable clothing
Wear loose clothing that does not irritate your skin. Prevent acne breakouts by avoiding the heat, friction and constant pressure caused by restrictive headgear or other forms of athletic gear. Switch to cotton clothing instead of wearing synthetic jogging suits or yoga outfits.

10.Clean up after exercise
Make sure you shower after exercising to get the sweat and grime off as soon as possible. When you perspire after a vigorous exercise session, there is an accumulation of dead cells on the surface of your skin. It is essential to remove these immediately to avoid blockages which can then lead to acne breakouts. The best way to get rid of these blockages is to take a refreshing shower after your workout.

Collagen is a protein produced by our cells that helps “hold” the skin together, giving it firmness and elasticity.As we age, collagen production slows.Luckily, there’s lots you can do to preserve your collagen and even boost its production.
1. Up your vitamin C intake
A study published in the American Journal of Nutrition found women over 40 with the highest amount of vitamin C in their diet were less likely to develop wrinkles than those who consumed lower levels.Vitamin C is crucial to the ­formation of collagen - without it amino acids can’t be linked to form the protein.Good sources are red pepper, dark green leafy veg like broccoli and sprouts, tomatoes, oranges and kiwi fruit.Skincare that contains vitamin C is also thought to encourage collagen repair. 
We recommend #1 Top rated Joyal Beauty Super Brightening Vitamin C Serum, the most effective and stabilized vitamin c serum.
2.Stop smoking
Smoking creates enzymes called matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) which damage the collagen in your skin, hence the tell-tale sagging which many smokers are betrayed by.
3. Stay sun safe
Sun exposure is a prime suspect for hastening collagen loss. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and damage the deep collagen support structures there.Our advice would be to wear an at least above SPF15 broad spectrum cream (one that protects against UVA and UVB rays) through the year.
4. Reach for retinol
Retinoid creams – only available on prescription – have been proven to help boost collagen production.Retinoids reduce substances in the skin that break down collagen after sun exposure and also target receptors in the skin which increase the ­production of collagen.
You can get your hands on milder forms of retinoid in over-the-counter retinol products.
We recommend Joyal Beauty Retinol Correcting Serum, which is bioactive and non-irritating formula, even suitable for sensitive skin!
5. Cut back on the sweet stuff
Eating too much sugar can be a beauty disaster.
It causes premature aging of the skin by a process called glycation. This is where excess sugar in the blood attaches itself to lipids, nucleic acids and proteins (especially your collagen) to form “advanced glycation end ­products” or AGEs, which accelerate the aging process and so cause wrinkly skin.
6. Exfoliate
Exfoliation – removing the top, dead layer of skin – helps speed up the natural process of skin and collagen renewal.
The great way to exfoliate is with exfoliants such as glycolic acid and lactic acid. They dissolve the glue-like substance that bonds dead skin to the surface rather than sloughing it away like scrubs do, and give a more even result, leaving skin looking healthier and more radiant.
We recommend Joyal Beauty Ultimate Brightening Age Defy Serum,which contains 1.2% glycolic acid and less than 1% salicylic acid. It is a leave-on exfoliant and gentle enough even for sensitive skin.
7. Add antioxidants to your skincare regime
Antioxidants help protect against free radicals that can cause aging skin.The term ‘free radical’ describes a damaged skin cell.It’s ‘free’ because it’s missing an electron (healthy cells have two ­electrons, a damaged cell has one.Free radicals attach themselves to healthy skin cells and basically suck out the electrons they need, leaving healthy skin cells damaged.This process triggers an enzyme in the skin that breaks down collagen. Antioxidants help by neutralizing the free radical so that it doesn’t have to feed off our healthy skin cells.
Sip on green tea – it contains ­antioxidants called catechins – and eat foods high in lutein, an ­antioxidant found in green leafy veg like spinach. Look for creams and serums containing antioxidants too. 
We recommend Joyal Beauty Timeless Skin Renewal Serum, which contains organic bee propolis, royal Jelly, honey and centella asiatica herb. Those are natural antioxidants. Best bee treatment+ Best collagen boosting serum.
8. Plant proteins, please
The menopause can make us wrinkly because, as we age, our oestrogen levels drop. Because oestrogen is vital to making healthy collagen, creases and crinkles can creep in to our skin.
Lots of foods contain plant ­oestrogens (phytoestrogens) that can help replace the effects of lost oestrogen. Try hummus, nuts, soy and pinto beans. 
9.Massage
Massaging your face daily will help boost the production of collagen, give skin a more plump appearance and help stimulate the lymph glands to promote clear skin. Use massage oil especially if you have dry skin.