Vitamin A is a powerhouse ingredient in the world of skincare, working on multiple levels to enhance skin texture and overall complexion.
Vitamin A works by improving skin cell renewal and stimulating collagen production and can help decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, treat acne and uneven skin tone – but only if used correctly.
At Bass Coast Skin Doctors, we often see clients who claim that vitamin A products they have used in the past hadn’t yielded results or had left their skin feeling dry or irritated. They’re often shocked to discover that a few changes to how they use their vitamin A product can actually lead to fantastic results.
Here are the most common vitamin A mistakes we see and how to avoid them.
Mistake 1: You’re not using SPF
As skin doctors, we’re always stressing the importance of using an SPF sunscreen every day, but did you know that many skin doctors will not recommend a vitamin A product unless you are also using an SPF daily?
Vitamin A can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so it’s essential that when using Vitamin A, you’re also diligent with applying SPF every day as part of your skincare routine.
Mistake 2: More vitamin A is not better
The old adage is true: you can have too much of a good thing, and vitamin A is no exception.
Overuse of vitamin A can disrupt your skin’s balance, leading to dryness, irritation, and increased sun sensitivity.
It might take a few weeks initially for your skin to adjust, and during this time a little sensitivity is normal, but if your skin continues to experience this symptom, you may be using too much.
Mistake 3: You’re using vitamin A inconsistently
You wouldn’t skip a couple of days in a course of medication prescribed by your doctor, and the same rationale should be applied to your skincare routine.
Skincare isn’t a one-off treatment, it’s a process. Intermittent use of vitamin A can stall cell turnover, meaning you’ll have to start the process from the beginning when you pick it back up. Remember, consistency equals results.
Mistake 4: You’re using vitamin A with too many other actives
Vitamin A is a powerful skincare ingredient, so when you incorporate it into your routine, you need to be cautious about other active ingredients you’re using.
At Bass Coast Skin Doctors, we frequently see cases where the skin has been damaged by mixing too many skincare products, and symptoms can include dryness, redness, pain, and sensitivity.
Mistake 5: You’re using vitamin A in the morning
Vitamin A products should be applied exclusively at night, after cleansing and before hydrating serums. This is because vitamin A can increase photosensitivity and sunlight can degrade its antioxidant properties.
Mistake 6: You’re not hydrating your skin
Active ingredients are fantastic, but it’s important not to forget the most basic and essential element of healthy skin: hydration.
Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin replenish moisture and strengthen the skin barrier, helping it to better tolerate the effects of vitamin A.
Mistake 7: You’re using the wrong type of vitamin A
Not all vitamin A products are created equal. The formula and strength matter, so it’s crucial to find the right one for your skin type.
Using the wrong vitamin A derivative can disrupt the balance between promoting cell turnover and maintaining barrier integrity, potentially leading to irritation or disappointing results. Only a skin doctor can prescribe the best vitamin A product for your skin, so it’s important to seek a professional opinion.
Speak to our skin doctors
Making the most of your vitamin A skincare product is best achieved by working with an experienced skin doctor or nurse to develop an overall skincare routine to suit your individual needs.
Book a consultation with one of our experienced and highly trained skin doctors who can walk you through the options and solutions. Call (03) 5618 7007 or book an appointment online.