Retinol
Retinol is a vitamin A derivative used for skincare solutions of dermatologists for all sorts of skin remedies in fighting acne, sun damage, wrinkles, skin aging, and any other skin problems.
For many of us, we’ve heard not so good stories about retinol use and I’m beginning to have second thoughts on the retinol being on the hype spot. Skin cancer, sun damages, dryness, and itchiness of the skin are some of the side effects of retinol.
Retinol, Retinoid, and Vitamin A.
Vitamin A is a group of organic compounds and is essential in maintaining our immune system, vision health, and reproduction. Vitamin A is also important for the health and functions of the Heart, Lungs, Kidneys, and other organs in our body.
Retinol and Retinoid are the same and both derivatives of vitamin A. Both are used for skincare solutions such as wrinkle reduction, acne treatment, and collagen production but since retinol has a lower concentration of retinoic acid than retinoid, it can be found in many OTC (over the counter) creams. Retinol is still effective but with low potency and results will take time to be noticed.
The majority of dermatologists would recommend a topical retinoid regimen since it has a pharmaceutical classification which means that you will need a prescription before using retinoid skincare. Retinoid (adapalene 0.1% gel) has been recently available as OTC without prescription.
How do they work?
Retinoid promotes surface skin cells to turn over rapidly and make way for new skin cell growth. Skin wrinkles, age spots, and rough patches on the skin can be reduced by Retinoids by increasing the production of collagen making the skin moist and youthful.
It is also used to treat inflammatory skin conditions like acne and pimples.
Do we need to worry about side effects?
Due to the concentration of retinoids, redness, and irritation of the skin, sensitivity to sunlight, peeling, and acne breakouts (rarely happens) are observed.
These effects usually last for about three to four weeks. Start at a low dose, use sunblock and skin moisturizer. The skin will adjust eventually, thickening its deeper layer and increasing strength.