What is retinol?

Retinol is another word commonly known as Vitamin A. Everyone over the age of 30 should be using some form of retinol topically on their skin. As over 30s is when the skin starts losing collagen and the skin may start to thin. The benefits for the skin are incredible such as decreasing wrinkle size, depth and volume. It has a slightly exfoliating action to the skin that rejuvenates it and erased years off pigmented, sun damaged skin. It minimises pore size and speeds cell turnover to even skin tone and smoothness. Retinol is also great for acne skins when conjoined with salicylic acid.

There are different strengths of retinol available in salons and homecare but it is always best to start at a low percentage and increase it with time. Some side effects to retinol will be significant peeling of the skin and redness. There are also consequences to not wearing an SPF while treating the skin with retinol such as pigmentation so bare this in mind if you are visiting a sunny country when using any retinol containing products.

There are different ways to introduce retinol into your skincare, the most popular vitamin A containing products are moisturisers and serums and that is because they sit on the skin the longest and have longer to penetrate through. Sometimes you might feel the product tingle, this is normal. The only people who should stay clear of retinol products are highly sensitive skins and pregnancy. I have a feeling you are going to wish I told you about retinol ages ago!

This month we talk to Thomasina, who qualified in 2007 at Carrigg Brady College of Beauty and has a ‘beautilicous’ salon in Shankhill, Co Dublin.

What made you want to set up your own business?

I decided to set up my own business so that I could explore and offer some of the new and exciting treatments that are constantly being developed in the industry.

What sets Beautilicious by Thomasina out over its competitors?

Beautilicious is a very friendly, warm, down to earth salon where our clients feel at ease and welcome at all times, while we always remain professional. We always listen to our clients wants and needs and we constantly thrive to provide top quality treatments at affordable prices.

Please tell me about your most rewarding or satisfying experience, your proudest moment, since you set up Beautilicious by Thomasina?

I set up Beautilicious by Thomasina in Feb 2015. That in itself was my proudest, most rewarding moment in my professional life. Although I always wanted to be a beauty therapist, I never dreamed that I would own my own salon. As the years went by in my career, I gained a lot of confidence and developed my skills the best I could. I started to think about setting up my own business, but I always had a niggling voice in the back of my mind. But with lots of help and encouragement from friends, family and my wonderful husband, Mark, I took the plunge!

What do you enjoy most about being a Therapist?

I enjoy making people happy and feel good and confident in themselves. It’s super rewarding!

What is your favourite Juliette Armand treatment to give? 

It has to be the Thavma facial, but I love them all.

What do you think makes Juliette Armand Skincare range stand out from other skincare ranges?

It provides real, visible results, and it doesn’t break the bank!

What is your favourite Juliette Armand product and why? 

My fave Juliette Armand product has to be the lift antiwrinkle serum. I love how extremely hydrating it is, which is great for my oily skin as sometimes I can over cleanse which can dehydrate my skin. Plus, it smells fab!

What is the best comment that you have heard a customer exclaim after a Juliette Armand treatment?

I handed One of my clients the mirror after her Thavma facial and she exclaimed ” wow, I actually look younger”. When clients say things like this it gives me more confidence in using the products and it makes my day!

What would you say to anyone thinking about using this range?

Go for it. You really won’t be disappointed.

What is your motto or personal mantra?

You only live once, make your life a good one.

What did you want to be when growing up?

When I was a little girl I wanted to be an artist as I loved to draw. As a young teenager I was a real tomboy and I dreamed of being a mechanic or joining the army! By the age of 15 I had discovered make up and all things beauty, and it’s been that way ever since.

What do you like to do on your days off?

On my days off I spend time with my husband Mark and 6 year old daughter Millie doing all things fun and exciting; playgrounds, cinema dates, shopping, swimming, it’s all go!

You’re happiest when?

…My life is running smoothly, I’m being kept busy, I have a healthy balance between work, family and friends, and everyone is happy.