RetinSphere® Technology
A powerful combination of retinoids in a patented dual-delivery system
Retinol is one of the only skincare ingredients that is clinically proven to slow down the ageing process and visibly reduce signs of skin ageing. It is a true multi-tasker, transforming the appearance of the skin and targeting common concerns like wrinkles, pigmentation, uneven skin tone and rough texture. However, retinol can be irritating for sensitive skin types. That’s where RetinSphere® Technology comes in.
The power of retinol
RetinSphere® is an incredible retinol technology developed by Cantabria Labs. It offers retinol like no other, combining two retinoid compounds in a dual-delivery system for maximum efficacy with minimal irritation. But before we take a closer look at RetinSphere® Technology, it’s important to understand the basics of the anti-ageing powerhouse: retinol.
What is retinol?
Retinol is a medium-strength retinoid derived from vitamin A. The power of retinol was discovered during WWI1 and subsequent research found that it was beneficial to treating skin conditions including acne and psoriasis. Upon discovering the increased skin cell turnover from retinoid use, professionals then harnessed the anti-ageing benefits.
Now, retinoids are available in varying strengths, both via prescription and over-the-counter. The strongest variations, including tretinoin, are prescribed for mild, moderate and severe cases of acne. Less potent forms of retinol can be purchased to treat a number of skin concerns.
How retinol works
When applied, retinol works at different levels within the skin’s structure, targeting cell groups including keratinocytes, fibroblasts and melanocytes. It penetrates the skin cell membrane to the cell’s nucleus, binding to retinoic acid receptors (RARS) and altering cellular pathways. This influences cellular processes, including cell growth, surface alterations and immune modulation, for visibly younger and healthier skin.
Retinol is most powerful at the epidermal level, the uppermost layer of skin. Here, it works to increase epidermal thickness, decrease fine lines and wrinkles, improve texture and create a brighter, more uniform skin tone.
In the dermis, the middle layer of skin, the benefits of retinol can be observed over the longer term. These benefits include enhanced production of collagen and elastin fibres, which improves firmness and elasticity and helps to reduce wrinkles.
The benefits of retinol
The benefits of retinol are far-reaching. By increasing collagen production, retinol reduces fine lines and wrinkles, as well as shrinking pores and increasing skin firmness. Retinol also boosts skin cell renewal and stimulates circulation for smoother, brighter skin. What’s more, retinol normalises transepidermal water loss (TEWL), which keeps the skin hydrated. It reduces pigmentation and smoothes the skin tone, along with normalising sebum production to tackle oily skin. Finally, retinol promotes better wound healing.
There’s no ingredient quite like retinol!
How the skin reacts to retinol
Retinol is a truly incredible ingredient, but it has high irritant potential. The most common side effect is retinoid dermatitis2 and inflammation, which makes the skin red, itchy and dry. A mild experience of these symptoms is expected when any new retinol product is introduced to a skincare routine.
Adverse reactions
While mild reactions are very normal and expected when retinol is introduced to a skincare routine, painful adverse reactions shouldn’t be ignored. Some people may experience side effects including acne, eczema and rosacea flare ups, discolouration, photosensitivity, blistering, stinging and swelling.3 In these cases, retinol should not be used until the skin has settled.
What is RetinSphere® Technology?
Cantabria Labs’ innovative RetinSphere® Technology is the perfect choice for every anti-ageing skincare routine, including those who are new to retinol, or who have very sensitive skin.
RetinSphere® Technology contains a combination of two powerful, high-tolerance retinoids: hydroxypinacolone retinoate (HPR), and retinol encapsulated in glycospheres and microsponges. The retinoids are delivered to the skin with a sophisticated dual delivery system, which offers both immediate and sustained release for maximum efficacy and minimal irritation.
RetinSphere® Technology’s combined delivery mechanism offers high potency and efficacy, with much better tolerance for sensitive skin types.
Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate
This retinoic acid ester is the only cosmetic-grade retinoic acid (RA) ester that acts like natural retinoic acid. It binds directly to the RA receptor, so there are no metabolic changes. This makes for a more stable and less irritating ingredient.
Retinol in Glycospheres
The glycospheres encapsulate retinol, facilitating deep penetration into the skin. They provide gradual release and continual activity. This type of retinol offers greater stability and greater tolerability to even the most sensitive skin types.
Retinol in Microsponges
Microsponges filled with retinol also facilitate deeper penetration into the epidermis. Again, this form of retinol offers gradual release and prolonged activity, with minimal irritation and maximum stability.
It is a common misconception that the stronger the retinol, the better the results. But our experts have found that high strength doesn’t always mean the most effective outcome. In fact, it’s the delivery of the retinol that is more important, ensuring that the product works beyond the top layer of the skin. This reduces irritation and offers the best long term results.
Products featuring RetinSphere® Technology
RetinSphere® Technology is a key component in Cantabria Labs’ leading ranges, including BIRETIX and NEORETIN. Explore our innovative formulations below.
