Iope Retinol Super Bounce Serum: The Science behind it
I’ve read that the Iope Retinol serum is inspired by the concept of radiofrequency treatments. However, I did not find such information directly from the brand itself online. Unlike the procedure which uses low-frequency electromagnetic waves to stimulate heat in the skin layers, Iope Retinol Super Bounce Serum leverages a powerful blend of ingredients to stimulate collagen production and improve skin elasticity. In other words, non-surgical radiofrequency therapy and retinol share a common goal, but through different mechanisms.
The Four-part Active Ingredient of Iope Retinol Serum
The Iope Retinol Super Bounce Serum contains a unique formulation called the “Retinol 4X 1%”, a.k.a. the Retinoid Quadruple Complex. This complex combines four different forms of retinol and retinoids – Retinol, Retinyl Retinoate, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, and Retinyl Acetate.
Retinol – also known as Vitamin A for the skin, binds to specific receptors on the skin cells. This binding action in turn triggers the genes to grow and divide the cells. As a result, older, damaged cells are shed, making way for newer, healthier cells, i.e, skin cell turnover. This also increases collagen production, leading to a bouncier complexion, and more youthful-looking skin.
Retinyl Retinoate – possesses a hybrid of retinol and retinoic acid benefits. Retinoic acid can irritate the skin, causing the skin to be dry, thin and flaky. Retinyl Retinoate works by gradually converting itself to both retinol and retinoic acid in the skin, allowing the skin to adapt to those progressively. This conversion process is effective in delivering long-term anti-aging benefits, especially in improving skin texture.
Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR) – is a unique retinoid that can directly bind to retinoid receptors without the need for conversion. This direct binding allows for faster results in cell renewal compared to other retinoids. Due to the accelerated cell regeneration, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate is also highly effective in giving the skin its structure, and in minimising fine lines and wrinkles. Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate can also directly inhibit the activity of tyrosinase, which is the key enzyme in melanin synthesis (melanin production). Thus, HPR can help to prevent the formation of new hyperpigmentation.
Retinyl Acetate – Like retinyl retinoate, retinyl acetate is slowly converted into retinoic acid in the skin, which reduces the risk of irritation. Retinyl Acetate is a gentle form of retinol (Vitamin A) and is well-tolerated by sensitive skin with minimal side effects. It helps to build skin tolerance to stronger retinoids, such as prescription-strength retinoids. Retinyl Acetate can stimulate the production of lipids, such as ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids. Consequently, it strengthens the skin barrier against inflammation and photoaging.
Radiofrequency vs How Iope Retinol Serum works
Radiofrequency triggers collagen production by heating the deeper layers of the skin to release heat-shock proteins within, which then repair damaged skin cells. The heat from the RF treatment causes the existing collagen fibers to contract, tightening the skin as a result. Hence, bringing about smoother and plumper skin.
Though RF treatment uses heat and is non-surgical and minimally invasive, it does involve thermal effect that penetrates deeper skin layers to destroy tissues. The Iope Retinol Super Bounce serum works on a cellular level, which is less invasive compared to radiofrequency treatments. Retinoids work by accelerating the shedding of dead skin cells, and stimulating fibroblasts to produce collagen. This way, it also gets rid of older pigmented skin cells, fades dark spots and refining skin tautness and elasticity. This results in a more even-toned and younger-looking complexion.
Iope Retinol Super Bounce Serum Review
I’ve used the Iope Super Bounce Serum for 2 weeks, once nightly. And I can already see some results to review it. As seen in the photo, my age spots have faded, and skin appears less textured. The size of the pores remain the same, but visibly shallower. The skin is more plump, and feels more hydrated. I used the Iope retinol serum on my neck as well, and it works on reducing the neck wrinkles too.
However, if you notice, there are a couple of sensitive spots appearing on my right side (your left). There is a slight red bump on the middle of my right cheek, and a red patch beside my nose. That spot is where the nose pad of my glasses sat, but on usual days it would not cause contact irritation like it does now.
How To Use the Iope Retinol Serum the safe way
I believe my skin got sensitive at some point because I did not start on the product slowly. My combination skin can be slightly sensitive, and therefore reactive to certain active ingredients. While we can use retinol daily, it is advisable to gradually increase the frequency of use from the beginning, so as to allow your skin to adjust to it. Start by using it weekly, then gradually increasing the frequency as tolerated.
I did not find any information pertaining to the retinol concentration the Iope Retinol Super Bounce serum contains from Iope skincare directly. But the “Retinol 4X 1%” and “Retinoid Quadruple” bit sure sound like a high potency blend. If you have sensitive skin, use it with caution. If you have skin already with open sores, wounds or lacerations, avoid using any product with retinol at all until it is completely healed.
Next Read: Chanel Le Lift (Uses Retinol Alternative: Alfalfa)
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