Retinaldehyde vs. Retinols - Which is best for your anti-aging skin?

 What is Retin A do?  What are retinols?

Vitamin A - also known as Retinaldehyde, is your multi-purpose skincare ingredient keeping your skin young and healthy.

Kasia Organic Skin Treatments use the safest and most effective form of Retinaldehyde through our Skindeep Organic Medi-Peel.

Let's take a deep look at what makes Retinaldehyde so beneficial and why we use this anti-aging power packed ingredient in Kasia treatments. 

Retinaldehyde is the most exciting and well researched skin care ingredient on the market today!  For years is has been researched and applauded as one of the most active ingredients in the skin but has been too expensive to use in skin care products.  Through our unique partnerships with industry leaders, we are able to bring to you our liposome coated Retinaldehyde.

 

In our bodies we convert Beta-Carotene into Retinol,  Retinol into Retinaldehyde, and then Retinaldehyde into Retinoic Acid (Retin A).  All of these retinoids have important and proven activity in the skin in an escalating level from Beta-Carotene to Retinoic Acid, respectively.  Retinoic Acid is the only retinoid that requires a prescription even though Retinaldehyde has a similar activity level.  Both Retinoic Acid and Retinaldehyde are substantially more active (500 times more!) than their Vitamin A counterparts which means we can use smaller amounts to achieve desired results.  The importance of this will be explained shortly.

 

All of the retinoids have a tough time penetrating through the epidermis because of their large particle size.  One study showed that only 2% of a topically applied retinol penetrated through the upper barrier of the skin.  Therefore, to have an effect on the dermis, larger volumes are often required.  Unfortunately, that means that 98% of those larger volumes of retinol are sitting on top of the skin doing nothing but working against you by irritating and over-exfoliating.  The advantage of using Retinaldehyde or Retinoic Acid is that smaller amounts, with much higher activity levels, can be used very effectively.

 

 Retinoic Acid and all retinoids are most effective in their "all-trans" configuration and that is how most Retin A  is delivered.....The bad new is that "all-trans" retinols are significantly more expensive and by law are identified on the labels are "all-trans"....(not L-retinol AGP, Retinyl Palmitate, Retinol/Vitamin A)  The other bad news is that All-trans Retinol has a defect in its methodology... 

 


Once the skin converts Retinaldehyde to Retinoic Acid, it cannot be reconverted to a form of Vitamin A that can be stored in the skin!  That is why the skin converts only enough to perform the desired function and leaves the rest in the skin's storage units in forms of Retinaldehyde and/or Retinol.

 

If you apply topical Retin A (tm), the skin cannot shut it off which results in two things; irritation from over-stimulation and over-exfoliation and a probability for the Retinoic Acid receptors to down regulate.  All-trans Retinoic Acid has, by far, the most receptors of any retinoids and that is what makes it so potent.  However, chronic stimulation (as in the case for every receptor in the body), results in fewer active receptors and thus diminished results over time.

 

 Retinaldehyde is the best form possible from the above listed retinoids.  In addition to having its own receptor activity, it is the immediate precursor of Retinoic Acid so the skin will convert a significant amount to that form upon application.  The good news is that there will never be an over-stimulation problem because the skin regulates that conversion and uses just what it needs.

Research has repeatedly shown that Retinaldehyde has a similar activity profile to Retin A ,but with much less irritation.

The issue of penetration remains the same for retinaldehyde as is does for the other forms.  To fix this problem we have incorporated liposomes to enhance the penetration of Retinaldehyde. Coating this ingredient in liposomes also helps to prevent oxidation which occurs with all retinoids.

Until recently, this ingredient was far too expensive to use in skin care formulations.  But through our unique lab partnership, we are able to use the highest percentage of this active ingredient and bring it to the professional marketplace.

Get Top of the Line Facial Results at Kasia!

Kasia Organic Medi-Facial

A revolutionary facial treatment that will have you rethinking the average facial “peel.” This treatment is safe, painless, and will not strip or damage your skin.

The  Kasia Skindeep Organic Medi-Peel and/or Facial have a 2.0% Retinaldehyde, making it the only non-acid peel that will infuse the dermis with fibroblast stimulators, immune boosters, antioxidants, pigment lighteners, and calming anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial ingredients.

Expect results with this powerful synergy that rejuvenates the skin by increasing collagen production, fighting free radical damage, scavenging scar tissue and helping reduce hyperpigmentation making it an amazing treatment for any skin type or condition.

Reference:  
Pure Skin Junkie

Kasia HONEY-DIP makes BEAUTY BETS Best of Self Tanners 2013

Kasia HONEY-DIP makes BEAUTY BETS  *Best of Self Tanners 2013*

by:  Elizabeth Dehn, a beauty writer + lifestyle editor

A few years ago, my super-healthy, June Cleaver of a mother announced that she was giving up broccoli. She didn’t like it, never had, and she was done beating herself up about it. That’s how I feel about self-tanners with built-in bronzers.

Sure they offer instant gratification, but I can’t handle the stain they leave on my hands or the mess they leave on my white towels and fluffy robe. I know there are mitts and gloves for this sort of thing, but who has time? When I step out of the shower already behind schedule, all I want is to slap on some lotion and go. No matter how many self-tanners are in my beauty closet (at last count: 23), I find myself reaching for the same handful of no-muss, no-fuss products that also happen to tan like the dickens.  An excellent shade for fair skin types.

I didn’t think Kasia Honey-Dip Natural Sunless Tanner and Anti-Aging Cream ($29) could get any better, but it’s been reformulated with even more organic ingredients and an even yummier scent. I can’t express how beautifully this darkens or how long it lasts. MIND BLOWN.

From Beauty Bets: Learn more here!

Purchase Kasia Honey-Dip Natural Sunless Tanner and Anti-Aging Cream HERE!

Thank you, Elizabeth!  oxox

50th & Bryant Street Fest - June 22 + Kasia Annual Sizzling Summer Sidewalk Sale!

Saturday, June 22, 2013 from 12-3 

stop by the corner of 50^th & Bryant for:

 

• Free music by Karen Page and the KGB Band on Bryant Avenue South

• Andrew Zimmern’s food truck, AZ Canteen, in front of Casa Verde Design

• Face Painter and Balloon Artist for kids

• Minneapolis Fire Department Fire Truck, if available

• Sidewalk Sales at the Shops & Restaurants

• Food & Refreshments at The Malt Shop, George & The Dragon and The Lynn

• Raffle for FREE Services at Kasia’s Organic Salon

• Special Discounts & Events at the Retail Shops

 

Kasia Sizzling Summer  Specials (One Day Only!)

• Raffle for FREE Services

  

• Purchase $150 Gift Card and receive $15 Credit on Kasia Products

• Instant Face Lift!  $12 Brow Waxes on June 22^nd  (By appointment availability only. Walk in's by availability)

Up to 50% OFF Natural and Organic Products!

• Kasia Body Scrubs

• Kasia BIG BAR Organic Artisan Soaps

  

• Organic Laundry Items

• Kasia Therapeutic Body Oils

• John Masters Hair Care

• Children's Babo hair and body line

This is a great time to celebrate summer and get to know all of the independent small businesses at the corner of 50^th & Bryant!

Contact our team at 612.824.7611 to schedule your $12 Brow Wax! Smashin' Deal! 

Research Suggests Daily Sunscreen Reduces Aging by 24%

A team of international scientists have released research results that is said to prove that using sunscreen regularly can reduce the signs of skin aging significantly.

The research, which was funded by the National Health and Medical research Council of Australia, focused on a group of 903 randomly chosen adults that were all aged under 55.

The purpose of the study was to determine to what extent regular use of sunscreen slowed skin aging measured by degree of photoaging, compared with discretionary use of sunscreen in combination with β-carotene antioxidant supplements and a placebo

The study was assigned to 4 groups: daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen and 30mg of β-carotene, daily use of sunscreen and placebo, discretionary use of sunscreen and 30mg of β-carotene, and discretionary use of sunscreen and placebo.

The groups that used sunscreen daily were asked to apply SPF 15+ to their head, neck, arms and hands each morning and after bathing, as well as during sun exposure and after heavy sweating.

The assessments were made over a four and a half year period using microscopic impressions of the subject’s hands to determine how much damage was visible.

The images showed that the group using sunscreen on a daily basis showed no detectable signs of skin aging, while skin aging from the baseline to the end of the trail was 24 percent less in the daily sunscreen group, compared to the discretionary group.

Article: by Simon Pitman from www.cosmeticsdesign.com

Turmeric's Amazing Benefits for Beautiful Health + Bonus Smoothie Recipe!

Are You Ready to Add More Spice to Your Life --

Add this anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich staple from the spice rack!

Beautiful Health through Turmeric:

• Supports healthy joint function
• Promote radiant skin
• Improve digestion
• Supporting your memory function
• Promoting your heart health
• Boosting your immune system

Curcumin can potentially benefit you by:

• Helping maintain your healthy digestive system
• Supporting your healthy bones, joints, and overall skeletal system
• Helping you maintain cholesterol levels that are already within the normal range
• Promoting your healthy blood and liver functions

How Turmeric Provides Antioxidant Nutrient

You probably know that antioxidants are important nutrients in supporting your health by slowing down free radical damage that can seriously damage your cells, organs and DNA.  Turmeric helps protect your cells -- and  counteracts free radical damage (aging).

The antioxidant content within turmeric comes from active compounds called curcuminoids. These curcuminoids deliver antioxidants that are:

• 5 to 8 times stronger than vitamin E -- and also stronger than vitamin C
• 3 times more powerful than grape seed or pine bark extract
• Strong enough to scavenge the hydroxyl radical -- considered by many to be the most reactive of all oxidants.

Oxidation by free radicals can damage cells and DNA -- and thus impact your overall wellness and speeds up the aging process.

Why this Herb Can Help Enhance Your Outer Beauty

Speaking of antioxidant nutrients and their potential to impact the aging process, some of the first aging signs you may see as you get older are changes to your hair and skin. GOOD NEWS!  By including Tumeric in your daily foods, you can contribute to the process of radiant beauty!   Turmeric helps you:

• Cleanse your skin and maintain its elasticity
• Provide nourishment to your skin
• Balance the effects of skin flora

Your Cellular Booster and Adaptogen

Another potential advantage from turmeric usage involves the smallest living things within you -- your cells.   Turmeric can assist your cells in three ways, by:

• Maintaining your cells' integrity when threatened by occasional environmental stressors
• Helping you neutralize substances that can cause cellular stress
• Providing the antioxidants you need to help support your cells against excessive oxidation and free radicals
• Helps women's general fertility 

Summer Tropic Turmeric Smoothie Recipe:

Fill blender with…

• 8 oz unsweetened almond milk
• ½ tsp turmeric
• ½” piece fresh ginger
• 1 cup frozen pineapple
• ½ frozen banana
• 1 tsp coconut oil
• 1 tsp chia seeds

Blend ingredients until smooth and enjoy your organic Tropical Turmeric Smoothie.

Kasia Recommends:  Premier Research Labs Turmeric

 Premier Turmeric is imported from India, freshly ground, and then encapsulated immediately to retain its unparalleled, active volatile essential oils.

Key Benefits:

• DNA repair and liver cleanser*
• The antioxidant potential of curcuminoids in turmeric are 300 times more potent than vitamin E
• Contains remarkable, immune modulating properties*
• Assists the detox mechanisms of the body, especially the liver*
• Helps alleviate stiff and painful joints*
• Helps improve and balances metabolism in the body*
• Promotes healthy digestion, peristalsis and relieves gas*
• Helps purify the subtle nerve channels of the body (known as the acupuncture meridian system)*
• Non-irradiated grade 10 quality from India

Daily Protection

Because of the proven liver cleansing and rejuvenative properties of turmeric, supplementing daily with grade 10 Indian turmeric may provide significant support the body’s primary detox organ, the liver, as well as protection against environmental and dietary toxins.

Stop in Kasia Organic Salon to pick up some power packed Tumeric. Contact Kassandra at Kassie@KasiaOrganicSalon.com.

Kasia's Honey-Dip is PR Firm - LOLA's Top Self Tanner Pick!

Kasia Honey Dip Sunless TannerTOPS MPLS based PR Firm  LOLA's FAVORITES!

Thank you LOLA Fashionista's

The Gossip

Fake it until you make it, or so they say. This might not be the best advice for someone trying to achieve success in the real world, but it is tremendous advice for achieving a golden summer glow. Here are our favorite product to keep skin bronzed, beautiful, and damage-free. Kasia Organics Honey-Dip Sunless Tanner- this one-bottle wonder offers organic ingredients, and the best-smelling faux glow you could hope to find. Thank you LOLA for sharing Kasia's Anti-Aging + Self Tanning STAR! Purchase Honey-Dip HERE!

Informed Summer Beaute' | Toxic Ingredients to Avoid in Your Sunscreen

Toxic Ingredients to Avoid in Your Sunscreen

Organic or not, avoid these ingredients when shopping for safe sunscreens. 

• Nano-Particles - penetration enhancers, creates free radical damage when exposed to sunlight, increases the risk of certain Cancers.
• Retinyl Palmitate – a form of Vitamin A can speed the development of lesions and tumors when applied to the skin in the presence of sunlight.
• Avabenzone, Oxybenzone – hormone disruptors, photoallergic reactions, immunotoxicity, probable carcinogen, endocrine disrupter, enhanced skin absorption, bioaccumulates to dangerous levels, biochemical cellular changes, developmental and reproductive toxicity.
• Phenol - reproductive and developmental toxin and pollutes wildlife.
• Octinoxate (Octyl Methoxycinamate)- listed as made from cinnamon, endocrine disruptor, hormone disruptor, penetration enhancer.
• Octocrylene - penetration enhancer, creates free radical damage when exposed to sunlight.
• PABA (Octyl Dimethyl PABA, PABA Ester) – cell mutation, Nitrosamine contamination (carcinogenic), creates free radicals damage when exposed to sunlight, penetration enhancer, hormone disruptor.
• Chemicals That Kill Coral Reefs – paraben, cinnamate, benzophenone, and a camphor derivative.
• Synthetic Fragrance – contains phthalates, developmental and reproductive toxin, respiratory toxicant, probable neurotoxin, possible carcinogen and endocrine disruptor, bio-accumulative in wildlife, immune system toxicant,  can contain between 10 and 300 different chemicals, many of which have never been tested for safety.
• Parabens - alter hormone levels, increase risk for certain types of cancer (especially breast), impaired fertility, alteration of the development of a fetus or young child, studies have found parabens in breast tumors, probable skin toxicant, animal studies show brain and nervous system effects.
• Petro-Chemicals - contaminated with impurities, linked to cancer or other significant health problems, bad for the environment.

90% of skin damage is from the SUN!   Improve & protect the appearance of your skin… lightly tinted and unscented.

15% OFF Organic Tinted Moisturizer with purchase of Good Day Sunshine

Promo Code: 

Reference:  Glamorganic Godess

Beautiful Health Tip: Broad Spectrum Preservatives to Avoid

By being personally involved in the birthing of many Kasia Organic creations,  I know first hand how difficult it is to choose a preservative that is both safe for prolonged usage and effective as a broad spectrum.  At Kasia we use ingredients that are safe for our guests health.  The newest technology on the market has proven that HIGH antioxidant blends truly do sustain the longevity of natural and organic blends.

By design, preservatives must be effective at killing cells. Unfortunately, this is also what creates the potential health hazards that concern both consumers and consciencious manufacturers.  Every preservation system currently available carries with it some degree of risk.  The evidence against some is quite compelling and these should be avoided whenever possible.  However, many preservatives - while still imperfect - have the potential to protect us from the consequences of product contamination without creating unnecessary or unreasonable health risks.

Women + Xenoestrogens Connection In the 1990s, parabens were deemed xenoestrogens―agents that mimic estrogen in the body. “Estrogen disruption” has been linked to breast cancer and reproductive issues. And in 2004 British cancer researcher Philippa Darbre, Ph.D., found parabens present in malignant breast tumors. As a result, experts in many countries are recommending limits on paraben levels in cosmetic products. What’s more, watchdog organizations worry that if parabens can be stored in the body, over time they could have a cumulative effect and pose a health risk.

The most common broad-spectrum preservatives to avoid:

• Parabens
• Formaldehyde Donors
• Phenol Derivatives
• Ethylene Oxide Derivatives
• Alcohols
• Isothiazolones
• Glycols
• Acids

It may require some investigating to identify which ingredients listed on a label represent the preservation system.

Kasia Natural and Organic Products include the following leading preservative ingredients:

Antioxidants: Antioxidants slow or prevent the oxidation of other molecules. While antioxidants are only minimally effective at protecting against microorganisms, they can substantially reduce the potential for rancidity of oils, thereby slowing contamination of oil-based formulations.

Vitamins: Vitamin A (retinol), Vitamin C (ascorbic acid), and Vitamin E (tocopherol) are all recognized as having varying degrees of anti-microbial properties.

Citric Acid: Citric acid has both antioxidant and preservative properties and can play an effective role as part of a preservative system for cosmetics.

Essential Oils: Tea Tree, Eucalyptus, Lavender, Lemon, Rosemary, Sage and Sandalwood essential oils are among the most well known plant oils used for their anti-microbial properties.  They must typically be used with other preservatives as the concentration required to fully protect a product would likely exceed the recommendations for safe usage.

Extracts: The three most commonly used extracts related to cosmetic preservation are Rosemary Oil Extract, Honeysuckle Flower Extract and Grapefruit Seed Extract.  Read more about why they are effective and to what degree they protect formulations from contamination.