Skin Care
The power of retinol: unlocking its Anti-aging secrets

Skin aging happens naturally, as one grows older . But excessive exposure to the sun speeds up the aging process.
Retinol is a fat- soluble vitamin in the vitamin A family that has many benefits for our skin. It is used to treat acne and has powerful anti-aging effects.

Retinol
It is a topical treatment, in the sense that you apply it on top of your skin. And it comes in different forms, including:
- Creams.
- Gels.
- Lotions.
- Ointments.
- Serums.
Cosmetic goods occasionally contain retinol as a component.
Retinol for Anti-aging
- Like an extra-strong loofah, retinoids do more than simply remove the outermost layer of your skin cells. They cause your body to produce more collagen, which is a protein found in your bones, muscles, and skin. It maintains the firmness and elasticity of your skin. Less creases will result from this. Retinoids reduce wrinkles and fine lines by encouraging your skin to produce more collagen.
- They also stimulate new blood vessels, which can give your complexion a rose hue. Retinoids also assist to reduce age spots and smooth rough regions. Tretinoin (Retin-A) is a commonly prescribed treatment for aging skin.

Power anti-aging agent
Apart from Retinol as an anti-aging agent, there are several other benefits you can get from using Retinol.
- Regarding acne, Retinol prevents blackheads and whiteheads by clearing clogged pores. Consistent use results in smoother skin, but initial outbreaks may intensify (retinol purge). Regular use of retinol would result in a smoother, acne-free face.
- For dark spots, retinol: By lowering melanin accumulation, retinol can help lighten age spots, sun spots, and black spots. Retinol is a common topical treatment for hyperpigmentation, but it can irritate the skin and take months.
- Using Retinol to Treat Melasma Dark patches or blotches appear on sun-exposed areas due to melasma. Tretinoin, a topical retinoid, may aid in the fading of melasma patches.
- Retinol for psoriasis : Psoriasis creates itchy, scaly rashes. Topical retinol inhibits skin cell expansion and lowers inflammation, so alleviating the rash. However, because retinol can cause skin irritation, it is frequently used in conjunction with topical steroids.
- Retinol can help minimize the appearance of stretch marks caused by pregnancy, weight increase, or muscular growth.
Note Before Using Retinol For Any Of These Treatments Consult Your Healthcare Provider For Personalized Advice. Especially Pregnant Or Breastfeeding Mothers.
How to Apply Retinol Correctly:
To properly utilise retinol, follow a step-by-step approach to maximise its benefits while minimising redness, dryness, and sensitivity.
- Pop out a very small amount of retinol. Use on dry , clean skin.
- A pea-sized amount of gel retinol is ideal; one pump the size of your fingertip or less should be adequate for creams, serums, and lotions.
- Using a quadrant approach, apply the retinol to the face gently.
- A tiny bit should be applied to the chin, forehead, and both cheeks. Massage retinol into the skin, until no product is visible.
- Apply a light moisturiser and, if desired, finish with a face oil.
- If you use it in the morning, thoroughly cleanse your skin, follow your usual morning skincare routine, and apply a large amount of sunscreen.
Retinol is sensitive to light if you expose yourself to sun after using retinol the retinol would degenerate to some extent that is why a proper amount of sunscreen is advised.

Retinol
What are you waiting for? Walk into any beauty store and get a large package of retinol and add to your beauty routine to look fresher everyday.
Real alsoNever do these 3 Things during your Skincare Face Routine.
Skin Care
Not Just Fine Lines: 5 Shocking Signs You’re Losing Collagen

“Collagen makes up about 30% of the structural protein in the body” ,says Top Dietician Keri Gans. This shows how vital this body nutrient is to our general body health. Among all body nutrients that help with body repair, collagen is the most essential. It helps build various tissues such as ligaments and tendons. However, as we age, our collagen production declines, which could lead to different health challenges.Here are some signs you are losing collagen .
Wrinkles and Other Age-related Issues
Collagen is vital for the smooth connection of different skin tissues in the body. It helps maintain hydration, skin elasticity, and firmness. Also, it is responsible for holding different body organs, like muscles, together for better body health. However with time ,body organs lose their firmness, which leads to saggy skin and wrinkles. When you notice skin lags, it means you are losing collagen.
Gastrointestinal Problems
Another way to know if you don’t have enough collagen is when you start experiencing some gastrointestinal issues. The most common being ‘gut leakage’. This health condition occurs when gaps appear in the intestine which toxins and bacteria use to attack your bloodstream. When this ailment becomes serious, it could lead to inflammation and serious intestinal infection.
Slow injury healing
When people have minor injuries, they are expected to heal within a few days. However, when you are low on collagen , it takes more time for your injury to recover. This is true for elderly people whose collagen production has declined over time. A wound that should heal within a few days can take weeks and even months.
Read Also : Does Grapefruit Really Help Build Collagen?
Cellulitis
Is your skin looking lumpy and pale? If yes, it could be cellulitis. This happens when fat cells in your body are fighting against weak tissues. While there are many reasons why this could happen, the main cause is a reduction in collagen fibres. When they weaken, your skin elasticity reduces, which could lead to a more serious skin ailment in the future.
Blood Pressure and Other Circulation Issues
Blood vessels need collagen to maintain their strength and elasticity. However, blood vessels become weak when people suffer from high blood pressure and circulation problems. Those with anxiety and depression problems are also affected by these issues. That’s why people are advised to eat foods and fruits rich in collagen, like avocado and chicken skin.
Final Thoughts
Everyone needs a rich amount of collagen to keep their skin smooth and maintain a healthy life. However, collagen production can be depleted due to age and other illnesses. We have explained in detail some signs that could show you are low on collagen supply.
Skin Care
Beauty on a Budget: Affordable and Effective Skincare Makeup for Every Nigerian

Looking good is important to Nigerians as it shows their fashion taste. They want to express their sense of style and social status. However, finding quality skincare products on a budget is hard for low- to middle-class Nigerians. Are you searching for affordable and effective skincare products, here are some recommendatio (more…)
Skin Care
DIY Face Mask Using Local Ingredients

Sometimes, the glow you’re looking for isn’t in that expensive skincare bottle it’s in your kitchen. That’s right. With a few local, everyday ingredients, you can whip up a face mask that leaves your skin feeling soft, fresh, and alive.
No chemicals. No complicated process. Just nature doing its thing.
Here’s a guide to making DIY face masks using ingredients that are easy to find in Nigeria and maybe already sitting in your fridge or pantry.
1. Honey & Turmeric Mask (For Brightening & Fading Dark Spots)
Why it works:
Honey is a natural humectant, it attracts moisture to your skin. Turmeric? That’s your glow plug. It fights inflammation and helps fade scars and spots.
How to use:
Mix 1 tablespoon of honey with a pinch of turmeric powder.
Apply to a clean face and leave on for 10–15 minutes.
Rinse off gently with warm water.
Tip: Use this once or twice a week. Be careful with the turmeric, it can stain your clothes (and your fingers).
2. Oats & Milk Mask (For Sensitive or Dry Skin)
Why it works:
Oats are calming and great for irritated skin. Milk contains lactic acid which gently exfoliates dead skin cells and smooths rough patches.
How to use:
Blend 2 tablespoons of oats (or use oat flour) with 1–2 tablespoons of raw milk to form a paste.
Apply and leave for 15–20 minutes.
Wash off in circular motions with lukewarm water.
Bonus: It leaves your skin feeling clean, soft, and baby-smooth.
3. Pawpaw & Lime Mask (For Glowing & Clear Skin)
Why it works:
Pawpaw contains natural enzymes that help clear dead skin cells and brighten your skin. Lime is rich in Vitamin C and great for oily skin (but use it in small quantities).
How to use
Mash a few chunks of ripe pawpaw
Add a few drops of fresh lime juice.
Apply and leave for 10–12 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly.
Caution: If you have sensitive skin, skip the lime or do a patch test first.
4. Egg White & Lemon Mask (For Tightening Pores and Oil Control)
Why it works:
Egg white helps tighten your skin and shrink large pores. Lemon helps cleanse and reduce oiliness.
How to use:
Separate one egg white and mix with a teaspoon of lemon juice.
Whisk until slightly foamy.
Apply with a cotton pad and leave on until it dries (about 10–15 minutes).
Rinse with cold water.
Warning: Avoid lemon if your skin reacts to acidic things.
General Tips for All Masks:
Always apply on a clean face. Dirty skin = blocked results.
Do a patch test if it’s your first time trying any of the ingredients.
Don’t overdo it. 1–2 times a week is enough.
Moisturize after masking. Your skin will drink it up.
Conclusion
Glowing skin doesn’t have to cost you your entire salary. With a little creativity and some love from local ingredients, your face can thank you without breaking the bank.
The best part? You know exactly what’s in your skincare, no hidden chemicals, just pure goodness.
So, next time your skin feels dull or tired, head to your kitchen. Your glow might be sitting in a bowl of oats or a spoon of honey.
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