Top 5 Natural Alternatives to Retinol Cream

Also known as Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps with the regeneration of skin cells, reduces sun damage and has strong anti-ageing properties. Modern cosmetology finds Vitamin C very useful in products meant for skin brightening, acne reduction, age-spots and hyperpigmentation removal and so on. You can buy over-the-counter Vitamin C serums or even make your own to treat any of these purposes.

A plant extract that is rich in fatty acids, evening primrose oil has wonderful nourishing ability vis-a-vis human skin. It is effective in treating various dermatological conditions including acne, wrinkles and loose skin. Though many skincare products have evening primrose oil as an ingredient, supplements and essential extracts of Evening primrose oil tend to be more effectual in providing quick results. These may cost a little more, but then they deliver better results too.

Rosehip seed oil is a “dry oil” which is extracted from the fruit of roses. Given that it is absorbed by the skin with no greasy shine, it is applied directly to hydrate and heal the skin with its numerous nourishing agents. It helps in undoing skin damage such as signs of ageing and sun damage. It has anti-inflammatory properties and thus soothes irritated skin. Since it is mild and typically suited to all skin types, you can also use it regularly as your daily moisturiser, no matter what your skin type is.

The high antioxidant content of Green Tea is often extolled, but did you know it could help rescue you from skin problems too? It has polyphenols which minimise sun damage and inhibit the production of free-radicals in the body. It can also be used to treat acne, eczema and rosacea on account of its anti-inflammatory capacity. You could buy over-the-counter green tea creams/gels or even mix its extract in your moisturizer/facial oil for daily use.

Eating Vitamin A-rich foods may also entail the same skin benefits as using retinol products. You could add more foods such as fish, nuts, kale, spinach, carrots, bell peppers, etc to your diet, all of which contain significant amount of Vitamin A. However keep your intake in check since excess Vitamin A may lead to hair loss, jaundice and even mood disturbances.