Contents
and Health Benefits
Retinoids are a group of substances related to vitamin A that have impressive benefits for skin health. They’re highly effective at tackling a range of skin issues such as wrinkles, dark spots and acne. Retinoids are becoming increasingly popular amongst people of all ages who want to look and feel younger. So, what are they and what do they do? In this beginner’s guide, we’ll take a closer look at retinoids, their benefits and safety considerations.
What is a Retinoid?
Retinoids are derived from vitamin A, which is essential for helping to regulate cell growth and division. When applied to the skin, retinoids act like a natural exfoliant, encouraging the shedding of old skin cells to reveal the fresh, younger looking cells underneath. Retinoids increase production of collagen too, helping to smooth wrinkles and repair sun-damaged skin on the face and neck.
Types of Retinoid
There are two main types of retinoids: Retinol and Retinoic Acid. Retinol is typically the mildest form, ideal for first-time users. You’ll find it in many over-the-counter beauty products, and it can help to reduce wrinkles and even out skin tone.
Retinoic acid is a stronger, prescription-only vitamin A derivative also known as tretinoin. It can be more irritable to the skin, although it’s highly effective at anti-ageing and acne treatments.
Benefits of Retinoids
The primary benefit of retinoids is their ability to reduce wrinkles and repair damaged skin. For many people, the most visible improvement is to uneven skin tone and texture, which can make you look younger and brighter.
Retinoids can also help in improving acne by boosting skin cell turnover, preventing the pores from becoming clogged.
Safety Considerations for Retinoids
Apart from being a more powerful strength of retinoid, using tretinoin will require your doctor’s advice and prescription. This is because it increases the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight and there are risks associated with sunburn and skin damage.
For OTC retinol products, it’s important to use a good quality moisturizer before and after applying the product. It can take up to four weeks to see results, so it’s best to start with a low strength product and gradually increase the strength over time.
If you’re looking to improve signs of ageing or reduce marks and blemishes, retinoids can be an effective solution. If you’re considering using retinoids for skin rejuvenation, then consulting with a professional is recommended for personalized advice.
