Written By House of Hilt - September 10 2019
If you’ve been paying attention to the beauty blogosphere recently, you’ve probably noticed there’s a new buzzword on the block: retinol.
Retinol products are skincare formulations that can build collagen and claim that they can make the skin look plump and minimize brown spots and wrinkles; they can be used in different doses based on how the skin reacts and the desired effects. But retinol is also a rapid exfoliator that breaks down skin cells in a faster manner than would naturally happen…and that’s not always a good thing.
“It’s like creating a wound in a controlled environment,” explains Natasha Crow, our Co-Founder, Chief Alchemist and a practicing aesthetician of more than 15 years. “Your skin does produce collagen and elastin when you use a retinol, but that’s because it thinks it’s being harmed. Even at the lowest dose, I see impairment in the protective barrier of the skin. The skin is so sensitive after repeated retinol use that even water could sting when its barrier function is impaired.”
When the barrier, which acts like a protective blanket for the skin, is impaired, you might see acne, thinning skin or redness and irritation. “When my clients ask me what I think about it, I tell them it absolutely does work. The results are powerful,” Natasha says frankly. “But at what price?”
At House of Hilt, we’re confident that customers can see radiant skin with our Plant Based, Filler Free, Toxin Free skincare. While we don’t offer a designated retinol alternative, we do offer products that provide a balanced, nourished, result without any harshness.
The namesake mint in our customer-favorite Herbal Mint Cleanser is naturally highly antibacterial and medicinal, making it perfect for all skin types, including people with rosacea and acne. “It clears up bacteria, and you don’t have to cause inflammation or rapid exfoliation,” Natasha explains. “It works in a very gentle manner, and the cooling effects are wonderful, especially for redness and inflammation.”
Like all of our products, our Illuminating Eye Crème is infused with our proprietary House of Hilt Infusion system, a tincture that echoes retinol’s ability to dissolve skin debris and soften the visual effects of fine lines and wrinkles.
Retinol is known for its ability to reduce hyperpigmentation in the skin. Our best-selling facial oil has the same benefits, only it uses 25 percent lipophilic Vitamin C to achieve them. A powerful antioxidant, Vitamin C oxygenates and brightens the skin, making it the perfect alternative. Plus, this lovely oil is incredibly hydrating and soothing.
