What is retinol?
Retinol is derived from vitamin-A. It increases the cell turnover rate, renews the skin and reduces the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines and pigment spots. Retinol is a highly active molecule and can be broken down very easily through sunlight exposure. Most retinols should ONLY be applied at night because when it’s exposed to sunlight, it can cause the skin to get irritated. Most people don’t use retinol correctly or don’t know that there are different types of retinol. With all retinol products you should introduce them into your routine slowly, start 1-3 times a week. Your skin will slowly develop the proteins it needs in order to carry out and absorb the vitamin-A. A common side effect when first starting retinol is redness, stinging/spicy feeling, flakiness, peeling or any other sensitivities. This is why you have to introduce them slowly. After continuous use, your skin will build up enough retinoid receptors that it’ll stop being so sensitive towards retinol.
Types of Retinoid:
Retinyl Esters (Retinyl Palmitate)- This can be sold over the counter and is the weakest formulation of retinol.
Retinol- Can also be sold over the counter, and is a stronger formulation than retinyl esters. These can be found in different strengths and the higher the strength the more effective. Just remember he higher the strength the more irritant it can be.
Retinaldehyde- The MOST effective over the counter form of retinol. Will be more irritating than retinyl esters & retinol. The strongest formulation you will find over the counter.
Retinoic Acid- Usually prescription only. This is the most studied and active form of retinol. A common example of this is tretinoin/Retin-A.
Some good brands of over the counter retinol:
Obagi Retinol 1.0
PCA Skin: Intensive Age Refining Treatment 0.5%
PCA Skin: Intensive Brightening Treatment 0.5%
SkinMedica: Age Defense Retinol Complex 0.5
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare: Ferulic+Retinol Wrinkle Recovery Overnight Serum
Remember sensitivities are common when using retinoids but if any are causing severe side effects. Please dismiss the use of any and all products you’ve been using and consult with your dermatologist or esthetician. Have a wonderful day/night! If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to ask 😌
