Why we love Vitamin A!

Some sources of vitamin A include sweet potatoes, carrots and carrot juice, beef liver, cantaloupes, watermelon, spinach, broccoli, lettuce and dark leafy greens, winter squash, apricots, asparagus, green beans, yellow corn, eggs, and peas.

Retinol and retinyl palmitate are among the most widely used active ingredients in skin care products. Unfortunately, there is much confusion about how they work, what results they can deliver and what their optimal usage is.

First, let me explain the basics. Both retinol and retinyl palmitate are forms of vitamin A (along with yet another form retinaldehyde). As opposed to many other vitamins, vitamin A does not have much of a direct biological effect. It works via its active metabolite (biochemical derivative) called retinoic acid. Only retinoic acid and its analogs collectively called retinoids have direct effect on skin cells and can adjust their physiology toward a more youthful state.

Because of the small molecular structure of vitamin A, it can penetrate the skin and go to work right where it is needed. Retinol encourages new skin cell growth, which keeps the skin looking fresh, young, and healthy. It stimulates collagen production so that skin is firmer. It is also an exfoliant so it helps with acne and keratosis pillaris.

Remember to wear plenty of sunscreen when using any type of retinoid- it will make you slightly more likely to burn. Are you ready to add some A to your skin care regimen? Here is where you can start...

1. A lightweight lotion with plenty of powerful Retinol can be found in Murad's Skin Perfecting Lotion. This works well for most skin types and skin conditions.

2. TRUE Essential Pore and Complexion Refiner is a highly active multifunctional serum that uses Lactic Acid and Retinol to encourage faster turnover of cells to reveal fresher, brighter and younger skin!

3. Use Eminence's Herbal Eye Contour Cream to keep your delicate eye area looking soft and smooth. This is nature working at its finest!

4. Give your skin a reviving boost with Guinot's Masque Energie Lift. Your complexion is only 15 minutes away from a mega dose of vitamin A and C!