Is there anything left on the face of this planet which I have not slathered on my skin?
I think not! From my at home DIYs to collagen boosting sheet masks to fancy facial serums that not only spoiled my pillows at night, but also hurt my pocket. However, in my late 20’s, one clinically formulated retinoid cream has restored my faith in skincare and lets me enjoy true skin goals!
Read on to find out my actual first hand experience with a Vitamin A cream with real results!
Let’s take a stroll down memory lane, shall we? In the good old days, lipstick was every girl’s faithful companion. But times have changed, and there’s a new hero on the block, and its name is retinol.
What Are Retinoids?
Retinoids are a family of compounds derived from vitamin A, renowned for their remarkable skincare benefits. These incredible ingredients can be found in two main categories:
- Prescription-only
- Over-the-counter options
Prescription Power: Tretinoin
Tretinoin is the gold standard in vitamin A skincare. It is a potent retinoid that has been trusted by dermatologists for decades. To get your hands on this powerful formula, all you need is a prescription from your doctor.
Over-the-Counter Retinol Options
On the other hand, if you are looking for vitamin A perks without the hassle of prescriptions, simply head to right to your local drugstore and you will find a variety of over-the-counter options like:
- Retinol-esters: These are gentle yet effective in improving skin texture and reducing signs of ageing.
- Retinaldehyde: A step up from retinol-esters, this ingredient offers quicker results in terms of skin rejuvenation.
- Retinol: A skincare favourite, retinol is known for its anti-aging properties, helping you maintain youthful skin.
- Retinoic acid-esters: A milder form of retinoic acid, these esters provide a gradual but noticeable improvement in skin texture.
My personal pick you ask. Retinol and Retinyl-esters (I like to be on a safer side since my skin is sensitive).
First things first, what’s the deal with Retinol? Along with Vitamin C serum, a retinoid cream or retinol serum is something that dermatologists, skincare experts and beauty influencers on social media just cannot stop talking about. They swear by it, and they’re absolutely right.
It’s basically a must-have for any smart skincare routine.
Why? Because science has our back on this one.
The Science Behind the Secret
Retinoid is a skincare superhero, that is for sure. This ingredient (powering some of the most expensive skincare brands today) is touted to help turn back the clock on your skin, making it look younger and fresher.
Dermatologists are totally in love with these skin transforming molecules because of their top function of Desquamation (shedding of old skin cells) – it is basically just your skin’s way of renewing itself.
Think of retinoids as the construction workers of your skin. They supercharge collagen production, the essential protein responsible for maintaining skin’s firmness.
As a collagen protector, retinoid cream is also believed to act as a protective shield, preventing certain enzymes from breaking down the collagen in your skin.
What do you get as a result?
A firmer and supple looking skin that does not give ageing vibes. (One of the biggest reasons why I cannot live without retinoids).
Why I Choose Retinoid Cream For Myself?
Now this may not be the miracle skincare ingredient, but it surely completes my daily beauty ritual when I am going to bed at night.
The reason?
I am someone who values a skincare routine that goes beyond the surface, focusing on true skin health.
From correcting my deep rooted pre and post acne skin woes back in the teenage years to repairing existing sun damage and also delaying the onset of ageing signs, I am proudly hooked on my retinoid cream! 
Meet me, I am Sarah Smith, a 29-year-old beauty fanatic who believes that beauty begins at home…from your vanity table of course!
So, how did it all start?
Very simple…a pimple!
Breaking Down My Personal Obsession With Skincare
The morning I spotted a zit on ‘almost clear’ skin, I panicked and rushed to google the anti acne solutions.
As a naïve teenager who was already a religious user of sunscreen and a facial cleanser, I resorted to DIY at home.
No luck.
I tried everything for my congested skin and blemishes, each promising to be the ultimate solution, but none delivered the results I desired.
The ‘skincare loving gene’ in me stumbled upon…(drum rolling) Retinol!
Keep reading to find out the humble beginnings to its status as a skincare essential, this is the story of how retinoid cream changed my life.
Fast forwarding to my 90 days of retinoid cream experience.
The Discovery of Retinoid Cream
My own journey with retinoids began out of sheer curiosity, just like yours. I was on a quest to achieve radiant, smooth, and healthy skin, and that is when I came across this holy grail skincare solution.
I wanted to do my skin…the largest organ of the human body, a favour within the convenience of my house! 
After seeing tons of stellar reviews of retinoids on social media and a huge lot of skin specialists raving about the goodness of Vitamin A, I just had to take the plunge.
With just two and half months of regular usage of my clinically created retinoid cream, I was blown away by visible wins:
- Pores decongested and shrunk
- Faded acne marks and scars
- Overall brighter complexion
Now here is the treat that made me absolutely fall in love with my Vitamin A cream exclusively created by clinicians…
My forehead wrinkles became less noticeable with time!
I was sooo pleased to welcome the ‘anti-ageing perks’ of this skin super hero.
My 5 Fabulous Benefits Of Retinoid Cream
Since I am sharing my personal life changing journey with topical retinoids over a period of 11 years, I think it is best to give away my compiled list of top skin benefits of retinoids for face.
1. Buffs Your Skin
I have a firm belief that exfoliation is the key to ensuring my skin’s true potential. Retinoid cream that comes from Vitamin A does that!
By sweeping away the old, I make room for the new, healthier skin to shine through. Not only will my complexion be smoother than ever, but my skincare products will thank me too.
How? Well, the skincare products finally are able to penetrate deeper, delivering their powerful goodness where it matters most.
2. Battles Ageing Signs
Here comes my favourite quality of this skin super hero. It is anti wrinkle and anti crinkle.
The molecules of my retinol cream do not just stay on the surface; they dive deep into my skin, going beneath the outer layer (epidermis) and reaching the middle layer (dermis). 
Once it reaches the deep layers of the skin, retinol goes to work, battling those free radicals responsible for ageing signs.
As a result, your skin gets a little boost, encouraging it to produce more elastin and collagen.
The outcome from my personal experience?
My skin started to appear plumper, and those fine lines, wrinkles especially on my forehead, and enlarged pores around the nose gradually begin to look smooth.
3. Corrects Sun Damage
Even though I am someone who has never basked under the sun and has never failed to skip wearing sunscreen, I get it; spending too much time in the sun can really take a toll on your skin.
Not only that, but it might even increase your chances of developing skin cancer and cause problems like uneven skin tone and skin discoloration.
And then there are topical retinoids to the rescue!
“A study in Clinical Interventions in Aging shows that retinol can really help with problems like skin discoloration caused by too much sun.”
As a solution for skin damaged by the sun, using topical retinoid helps your skin look smoother and reduces those little wrinkles thanks to collagen production. Watch those brown spots fade away as retinol promotes cell turnover, revealing a brighter, more even skin tone.
To cut short, it makes your skin seem younger and healthier and might even help prevent skin issues that could turn into cancer.
My personal tip: To maximise the benefits of Retinol, apply it at night. This precaution ensures that your skin reaps the rewards without being exposed to harmful UV rays, which can reduce its effectiveness.
4. Banishes Blemishes 
Acne isn’t just a teenage thing; lots of grown-ups deal with it too, and it’s not fun. I mean, who wants to deal with wrinkles and acne at the same time?
I was one of them, until I befriended topical retinoids for life.
Acne occurs when your pores become clogged with dead skin cells, oil, and debris. These blockages create the perfect environment for breakouts to thrive.
My trusty retinoid cream speeds up the skin’s natural exfoliation process by getting rid of old, stubborn skin cells. This not only keeps my pores clear, reducing the chance of acne, but it also works on making my skin smoother and more even-toned.
So, in a nutshell, retinol is here to help my skin look fresh and blemish-free. (Going concealer free!)
5. Unifies Skin Tone
Well, hyperpigmentation occurs when your skin goes into overdrive, producing too much melanin. This excess melanin leads to those unwanted dark patches you might have noticed on your skin.
I know, I know, there are loads of skin lightening products in the market and yes…they work. But here is the catch – hyperpigmentation is not always just on the surface.
It can dive deep into your skin’s layers. So, if your current treatment is not giving you the results you want, it might be time to level up your skincare routine.
Time to give your skin the TLC it deserves.
According to the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, when you are dealing with pigmented skin and issues such as melasma or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, topical retinoids are a real game-changer.
A clinical strength retinoid cream is proven by clinicians to actually slow down the activity of an enzyme called tyrosinase, which is responsible for creating melanin.
Why is this so amazing? Well, it means that retinol can be your handy tool in the battle against those undesirable dark spots on your skin.
So, why did I choose Retinol and Retinyl-ester?
So many of us are just not ready to embrace skincare products of potent strength, right?
That is exactly why I reached out for dermatologist recommended retinoid cream by one and only Harley Street Formulations.
These 2 Vitamin A derivatives are my holy grails because they are:
Great for Beginners: If you are new to retinoids, these ingredients are your best bet. They give you results slowly and without irritating your skin.
Revive Your Skin: Just like Tretinoin, these products help your skin renew itself, while also improving those wrinkles and acne marks noticeable!
Beauty on a Budget: I am not cheap. However, I do prefer to invest in my skin rather than burning a hole in my pocket. So, just like me, you do not have to spend a fortune. My retinoid cream infused with two different types of retinoids is affordable and won’t empty your wallet!
Not dandy and fancy retinol cream, but a clinically formulated skincare
So, choosing to live with Vitamin A for skin was not the only decision I had made.
It was equally important and challenging to pick the ‘right retinoid cream’ for my skin needs.
Choosing the Right Product
Let’s kick things off by choosing the perfect retinoid product that suits your unique skin type.
If you are a bit uncertain about which one would be the best fit for you, I would recommend having a friendly chat with a dermatologist.
They are the experts in this field and can provide you with valuable guidance.
What do I use today?
Stimulate RE Retinoid Cream By Harley Street Formulations
My daily retinoids cream is the ultimate anti-aging cream that has everything my skin craves. Stimulate RE cream comes in a package that keeps the goodness sealed and protected from light and air.
Plus, it’s packed with the perfect blend of ingredients that a skin loves.
Experts at Harley Street Formulations have taken the renowned power of Retinol and elevated it by combining it with its milder counterpart, Retinyl Palmitate.
The result? A skincare product that’s nothing short of a must-have pump for all skin types.
Embrace those wrinkles and creases on your face they say…but ladies and even men who are not ready to welcome them need MAX Antioxidant power for their skin.
Here are some of the reasons behind my decision to stick to the clinically formulated Stimulate RE Vitamin A cream:
Ageing Signs At Bay: Tired of those fine lines and wrinkles? Dual Retinoids are here to tackle those dreaded signs of ageing, all while giving your skin back its youthful bounce. Prepare to be amazed by the results – your confidence is about to go through the roof.
Vitamin E For Antioxidant Boost: Shield your skin from the sun’s harsh rays that can lead to sun damage. Stimulate RE has Pure Vitamin E is like a trusty protector, keeping your skin safe and glowing. It’s time to enjoy the sun worry-free!
Nourishing Safflower Seed Oil: Don’t let acne and redness steal the spotlight. Safflower Seed Oil is great in the fight against skin issues. It ensures your skin stays calm and free from blemishes, letting your natural beauty shine.
Hyaluronic Acid: All-Day Hydration: Say goodbye to dry, uncomfortable skin. Topical retinoid by Harley Street Formulations contains Hyaluronic Acid provides around-the-clock hydration, so your skin stays moisturized and comfy all day long.
Jojoba Seed Oil: Gentle Skin Softening: Soft, supple skin is just a step away. Jojoba Seed Oil gently softens your skin while keeping excess oil in check. It’s time for your skin to radiate confidence.
Squalene and Glycerin – Moisture Magnets: Imagine your skin as a magnet for hydration. Squalene and glycerin make sure moisture keeps flowing, leaving your skin refreshed and revitalized all day long.
Ceramide 3- Your Skin’s Moisture Guardian: Keep moisture loss at bay with Ceramide 3. It acts as a protective shield for your skin, ensuring that hydration stays right where it should – within your skin.
With these skincare superstars, your skin is in expert hands. We’re here to make sure you look and feel your absolute best, day in and day out.”
My Holy Grail Retinoid Cream: My Life Changing Journey
Initial Skepticism
Like many others, I had my reservations when it came to trying retinoid cream.
I questioned whether it could truly live up to all the excitement and actually make a noticeable difference in my skin.
The day I first tried out that retinoid cream, I was not quite sure what to expect.
I even once decided to stop using the cream, but my friend talked some sense into me and told me that ‘good things take time.’ She was spot on!
Why Do I Like Stimulate Re At Night?
Using 0.5% retinol strength was my own choice from the start– it’s like a sweet spot, not too strong, not too weak.
You see, using something too potent can sometimes make your skin go all haywire, and nobody wants that.
But with 0.5%, it’s like a gentle nudge in the right direction for your skin.
Time Release Technology At Play!
What sets Stimulate RE apart is its clever use of time-release technology. Now, that might sound a bit technical, but it is actually quite simple and super effective.
It means that the vitamin A in the formula is released slowly and steadily throughout the night as you enjoy your slumber.
So, no sudden skin shocks or surprises in the morning, so neat, right?
This gradual absorption approach not only ensures that your skin gets its vitamin A fix but it also really lowers the chances of any irritation or sensitivity.
Patience Is Rewarded : Transformation Begins
My anticipation to achieve my skin goals grew by every day. Just like the finest things in life, I knew the results from my retinoid cream required a little patience.
I started seeing subtle goodness of Vitamin A cream such as reduced pores and a brighter complexion.
My dermatologist advised me to give Stimulate RE at least 12 weeks for the effect to show in my mirror, and some say it might take a tad longer.
But trust me, the results will be absolutely worth the wait. Remember to be consistent guys!
When On Retinol : Be Sun Smart
Never skip sunscreen during the day if you are using retinol at night. In fact, daily sun protection is just the practice you need if you want to make the most of your retinol journey. 
Topical retinoids did make my skin more sensitive to the sun’s rays. So, I had to generously apply a high SPF sunscreen to shield my skin from harmful UV rays.
Your future self will undoubtedly thank you for this thoughtful care.
To my surprise, the transformation began within weeks. My skin felt smoother, and blemishes started fading.
I couldn’t help but be amazed.
Final Takeaway from My Skincare Escapade
After trying out almost everything to finally enjoy the skin of my dreams while also keeping fine lines and wrinkles at bay, it is quite natural to be skeptical.
However, today, I can safely say that retinol is talk of the town for all the right reasons.
Using the retinoid cream in my nighttime skincare routine has really made a big difference.
Now when I look back, I now realise that it is not just about looking good; it is in fact the self-confidence (more like makeup free confidence) that I have been flaunting all these years.
All thanks to my robust anti-aging skincare routine powered by my retinoid cream, my trusty Vitamin C serum and of course my high SPF.
If you’re someone who values skincare that treats your skin with the kindness it deserves, then Stimulate RE might just become your newfound skin-care companion.
