As we age, our faces lose collagen which causes lines and wrinkles, our bodies also produce a chemical that actually breaks down collagen as well. Collagen is the key to healthy skin that tends to age well. “Collagen is the skin’s structural fiber,” dermatologist Dennis Gross said in the October 2005 issue of O Magazine. “As we get older, it breaks down, creating lines and large pores.”

However, using products that contain collagen won’t change a thing, as collagen CAN NOT be absorbed by the skin to replace lost collagen.

So what are we supposed to do? There are a million choices in skincare, how does the average person decide which lotion or potion is the correct one? This guide will separate the Fact from the Fiction, based on the Science and Beauty of skincare.

Retin A/Vitamin A isn’t just for pimply teens, Retin-A or AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) can help generate collagen by changing the pH level of the skin. Retin A goes by many different names such as:

• Retin-A
• Renova
• Retin A micro
• Tretinoin

“Retin A is a powerful tool to combat wrinkles, however I’ve found most of my clients can’t tolerate using it, therefore they stop and all benefits are lost”, states Nikki Rasmussen, RN and owner of Yolo Laser Center & Med Spa. “At YOLO we offer a physician’s strength product that contains Retinol which is a “precursor” to Retin A that is gentler, yet clinically effective at smoothing fine lines and wrinkles.”

Most OTC products that contain Retinol aren’t nearly as strong or effective; therefore I recommend skipping them and asking your Dermatologist, or medi-spa which of their products contain Retinol in the correct strength and formulation to combat wrinkles so you don’t waste your money. If your skin can tolerate Retin A, ask your physician for a prescription.

Here are some tips:

• Use Retin A or a Retinol at night only
• Avoid application near the tender eye area
• Use a sunscreen daily as your skin will be more sensitive
• Discontinue use if going to be in direct sunlight
• Tell your aesthetician or skincare specialist that you are using Retin A or Retinol as certain procedures cannot be performed during use
• Avoid products containing salicylic acid as it may be too irritating to the skin

Be patient, it takes approximately 6-9 weeks for the body to acclimate to Retin A and at least 3 months to begin seeing the effect.

Nikki Rasmussen, RN is owner operator of Yolo aesthetic boutique & med spa located in Guilford, CT. YOLO is your Plastic surgery Alternative. 203-533-4560 yolomedspa.com