Jo Michelle Aesthetics

Why Protection Matters...

As the weather changes over the next few months, keep this is mind ❤️

Retinol can be amazing for acne, fine lines, and improving skin texture, but it’s important to use it properly to avoid irritation. It’s a form of vitamin A that speeds up skin cell turnover and boosts collagen, which is why it works so well-but it also means your skin needs time to adjust.

If you’re starting out, go for a low strength (around 0.2%–0.3%) and use it just 2–3 nights a week. You can slowly increase how often you use it once your skin gets used to it. Using it every night right away is one of the biggest mistakes people make.

Apply it at night on clean, completely dry skin. You only need a pea-sized amount for your whole face, and it’s best to avoid sensitive areas like around your eyes, nose, and mouth. Always follow with a moisturiser.

If your skin is sensitive, try the “sandwich method” -apply moisturiser first, then retinol, then another layer of moisturiser. This helps reduce irritation while still giving you the benefits.

Sunscreen is essential when using retinol because your skin becomes more sensitive to the sun. Use at least SPF 30 every morning to protect your skin and maintain results.

It’s normal to experience some dryness, flaking, or even a few breakouts in the first few weeks as your skin adjusts. However, if you get severe redness, burning, or cracking, it’s a sign to cut back or stop for a bit.

Try to avoid mixing retinol with strong exfoliating acids or benzoyl peroxide when you’re starting out, as this can increase irritation. Keep your routine simple until your skin builds tolerance.

Retinol isn’t recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and people with very sensitive or reactive skin should introduce it carefully.

Used correctly, retinol can make a huge difference over time-just be patient and consistent.

AlumierMD prioritizes mineral (physical) sunscreens including zinc oxide and titanium dioxide because they offer immediate, broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection without absorbing into the skin, making them safer, more stable, and gentler on sensitive or post-procedure skin.

These sunscreens act as a reflective barrier, providing superior, long-lasting defense against skin aging and pollution.

Benefits:

✨Immediate Protection & Stability:

Unlike chemical filters that need 20 minutes to activate, mineral filters start working instantly upon application. They are photostable, meaning they do not break down quickly when exposed to sunlight.

✨Gentle and Safe for Sensitive Skin:

Because zinc oxide and titanium dioxide sit on top of the skin rather than being absorbed, they are ideal for sensitive, acne-prone, and post-procedure skin, reducing the risk of irritation.

✨Superior Broad-Spectrum Protection:

They protect against both UVB (burning) and long UVA (aging) rays, protecting against environmental damage, pollution, and infrared radiation.

✨Non-Toxic/Eco-Friendly:

AlumierMD formulates without chemical filters like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are known to harm marine ecosystems, offering a more conscious choice.

✨Advanced Formulation:

Their sunscreens are enhanced with antioxidants (vitamin C) and hydrators (sodium hyaluronate) to improve skin health while providing a non-greasy finish.

These mineral filters in all their sunscreens ensure a high-performance, safe, and comfortable daily sunscreen experience.

Whether you have sensitive skin, want to look after your skin post-procedure, or are looking for a specific finish (e.g., sheer, tinted, matte)
I can help suggest the best AlumierMD sunscreen for you 💖