You may hear the word retinol used a lot when talking about skincare, but what exactly is retinol, and do we need to know all about it? Retinol is a type of vitamin A, and it can be found in various forms. It can be found in animal sources like liver, eggs, and fish, but it can also be made synthetically through a process called “retinoiding”.
The Retinol compound has many functions, which includes helping with the repair of damaged skin cells and also the promotion of new cellular growth. Retinol also stimulates production of collagen, which is a protein that helps maintain skin’s elasticity and keeps it from sagging or wrinkling, thus making it effective in anti-ageing skincare.
The use of retinol can have some side effects such as dryness and irritation. This is because retinol makes the skin more sensitive to irritants such as sun, pollution, or harsh weather conditions. So it’s always recommend that we start slowly when introducing retinol in to our skincare routine, and some retinol formulas can be more gentle, and have a lower concentration of retinol too.
How Do I Use Retinoids Within My Skincare Routine?
Retinoids are a topical medication / skincare product which can be used to treat acne, wrinkles, and other skin issues. Retinoids are all derived from vitamin A and, they are known to make the skin smoother by evening out the surface of the skin.
Retinoids come in different forms, including creams, serums, gels, lotions, and face washes. Retinoids can be applied to your face daily or as needed. However it is important to consult with your dermatologist before starting any new skincare routine or medication.
Retinoids for Acne – How are They Used?
Retinoids are a type of vitamin A that are used to treat acne. They are also used to treat thinning skin that can result from acne, or thinning skin that is associated with ageing. Various clinical studies have shown that retinoids are more effective than antibiotics for treating acne.
Retinoids work by reducing the production of skin cells and sebum, which is the natural oil produced by the skin. There are three different classes of retinoids:
- Retinoid-based anti-acne medications
- Topical retinoids
- Oral retinoid medications
Side Effects of Using Retinoids
Retinoids are chemical compounds which are derived from vitamin A, and you often see retinol skincare products promoted from brands as part of anti-ageing skincare ranges. Retinoids can be used to treat acne, wrinkles, sunspots and other skin concerns. But they also have some side effects, that’s why people should be careful when using them, and always read the labels when trying any new product.
Some of the Retinol side effects, when you first begin to introduce retinol in to your routine. The side effects can include redness, dryness, irritation of the skin, peeling and cracking of the skin at the corners of the mouth, nose or eyes (perioral dermatitis), increased sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity), pigmentation changes at different body sites where retinoids were applied (ephelides) or even dry patches on your lips (chronic actinic cheilitis).
Whilst there are side effects, like with most skincare products, retinol is known for being highly effective in helping to reduce dark spots or uneven skintone, help fade wrinkles and fine lines, and when introduced slowly, retinol products are also suitable for sensitive skin types too, so it’s well worth introducing a form of retinoid in to your routine today.