INGREDIENT HYSTERIA AND MISCONSEPTIONS SEPARATING FACT FROM FICTION

There are myriad ingredients that have been subject to misinformation based on shabby research, personal opinions and self-interest, including vitamin A.

Vitamin A. If there is a universal ingredient in skin care that has received unprecedented support, it is vitamin A. As early as 1938, researchers have documented both the need for vitamin A in skin care, and its role in constructively ameliorating photodamaged skin. It is reasonable to assert that there have been several hundred articles that have appeared in refereed scientific journals that attest to the safety and efficacy of vitamin A.

Some websites, blogs and brands indicate that vitamin A is a known human reproductive toxicant. Yet, much research shows that vitamin A is safe for use in cosmetics. In fact, vitamin A is alleged to be one of the most effective – if not the most effective – ingredient in anti-aging skin care. Like anything else, if you use cosmetics with retinoic acid sunscreen is a must!

1. A sunscreen product is meant to remain on the surface of the stratum corneum to ensure optimal efficacy against UV radiation.
2. Numbers can be misleading. While as SPF 30 blocks about 97% of the sun’s damaging rays, SPF 50 will only block one additional percentage point – 98%. As the numbers increase above 30, the additional protection increase is negligible.
3. Most consumers do not apply sunscreen at the concentration tested by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), meaning that emphasizing how to apply this product to your clients is key. The correct amount of product to use a teaspoon for the face and a shot glass for the body. Repeated application is also key, no matter how high the SPF – think every two hours when indirect sunlight or after swimming.

Skin Inc.

January 2014