Many individuals — and with good reason — are a bit perplexed regarding retinol and retinoids. However, there are some similarities between these two anti-aging substances. Retinol is a subclass of retinoids. However, retinol often refers to less potent over-the-counter (OTC) formulations, while retinoid typically denotes stronger prescription medications.
OTC products are still effective but need more time and consistent application to function, as board-certified dermatologist Dr. Ramya Kollipara of Westlake Dermatology in Dallas, Texas, says. However, she continues, "they tend to be less drying." Therefore, should you utilise prescription retinoids instead of the less potent retinol? Is it feasible to utilize both in safety?
To learn more about these two titans of skincare, keep reading.
Retinoids, a vitamin A derivative, are effective against psoriasis, acne, fine lines, and pigmentation. They accomplish this by increasing the rate at which skin cells are replaced. For additional information, we contacted board-certified dermatologist Dr. Karyn Grossman of Grossman Dermatology in Santa Monica, California. According to her explanation, retinoids can quicken the rate of skin cell division and new cell growth. Simply put, they alter the way that your skin cells work.
She explains that topical application of retinoids promotes cell division on the skin's surface, thickening the epidermis. In addition, she points out that retinol and other retinoids also stimulate the production of collagen and elastin deep within the dermis layer of the skin.
With time, these skin proteins naturally decline, causing skin thinning and other outward signs of aging. Therefore, increasing their production enables retinoids to support pro-aging, fight sun damage, and aid pore reduction. Additionally, retinoids can unclog pores, eliminating the bacteria that cause acne breakouts and lessen psoriasis-related inflammation and shedding.
Due to the stronger concentration of retinoic acid, the most potent retinoids, like tretinoin, can only be obtained with a prescription. However, you can purchase over-the-counter medications with lower strengths, such as 0.1% adapalene. The majority of retinoids are available as topical creams or gels. However, in conventional skin care products, you can also find weaker forms like retinol.
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Emmanuel Loucas, who serves as the director of SINY Dermatology in New York, notes that retinol is a subtype of retinoids. Although they have lower retinoic acid concentrations, they function similarly to prescription retinoids. "A simple way to think about the difference between the two is: The stronger the product, the fewer steps are required for these compounds to break down into retinoic acid."
Retinols must be converted into retinoic acid once applied to the skin since they are made in an ester form, Loucas continues. They get weaker as a result. Despite this, retinol may still be effective in treating hyperpigmentation, minor types of acne, and fine wrinkles for a little longer until you start seeing these impacts.
The benefit? They may be purchased without an over-the-counter prescription and often have fewer adverse effects.
It would help if you thought about your skin type and the seriousness of the problem you're attempting to cure before choosing a choice. Retinols tend to be less drying and are commonly made with hydration components, so they are advised for anybody with dry skin, says Kollipara. A less potent retinol formulation is usually a good place to start for those with sensitive skin types.
If you fit any of the abovementioned descriptions, Grossman advises giving retinol a try twice a week. You may gradually increase the frequency to daily usage after about a month. She says you may gradually build up to a stronger product by rotating it in overtime after you can handle a milder one.
Naturally, you'll need to exercise patience while using retinol since results might take anywhere from a few weeks to six months. A stronger prescription-strength retinoid may provide speedier relief if you're looking to see results from severe acne and other skin issues more quickly. You may be able to handle stronger retinoids straight immediately, depending on your skin type. Just remember that Grossman still suggests beginning slowly.
According to Grossman, retinoids often cause the following negative effects:
She continues by saying these symptoms often point to excessive product usage or a vigorous skin care regimen.
Furthermore, increasing dosage or concentration increases the likelihood of having adverse effects. Therefore, introducing retinoid usage gradually might lessen the likelihood that you'll have these negative effects. Individuals of any skin type may use Retinoids. However, specialists advise those with sensitive and dry skin to start with a lesser dosage.
Find out more about developing a customized skincare program. However, Grossman advises against using retinoids if you're expecting, nursing, or attempting to become pregnant. Also, of course, it's recommended to avoid a product if you react to any of its contents.
There may be the best time to use retinoids or retinol if you're ready to incorporate them into your skin care regimen. Kollipara advises using retinoids and retinol at night after washing your face with a mild cleanser.
To avoid irritation, she suggests applying a pea-sized amount after your face is completely dry. Utilizing moisturiser afterwards can also aid in preventing irritability.
Start with just a few nights per week and gradually increase your usage once you are confident that your skin can withstand the product. Additionally, remember to apply sunscreen every day.
Consider utilizing several retinoids, since it often increases dryness and irritation, expert advice avoiding this, as Kollipara advises. Check the ingredients in your other skin care products as well, since retinoids might interfere with other formulations. According to Grossman, certain substances, including alpha hydroxyl acids and benzoyl peroxide, may degrade retinoids and make them useless. On the other hand, combining retinoids with astringents like ethyl alcohol or witch hazel might dry out your skin and cause irritation and redness.
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