This is one of many questions that is commonly asked here at Evolve Medical Associates. Retinoid/Retinol products are one of the best anti-aging products on the market, and if you are not currently using a Retinol product you should definitely consider adding one to your skin care regimen.
“Retinoid vs Retinol ?”
Retinoid and retinol sound so similar, its easy to think they are the same thing. Not really. Retinoids, available only by prescription, have been proven to change aging skin, starting deep in the lower layers of the skin. By contrast retinols are a much milder form of retinoids. Applied to the surface of the skin, they slowly are converted into true retinoids, but at a much lower concentration.
Retinoid is a vitamin A derivative that unclog pores, boost collagen to reduce fine lines, and speed cell turnover to even out discoloration and smooth the skin—sometimes in as little as four weeks. Countless studies have shown that retinoids can both prevent and reverse UV damage, increase circulation and reduce aging inflammation. The first retinoid—tretinoin—was FDA approved (under the brand name Retin-A) almost 40 years ago as a prescription acne treatment. Dermatologists soon noticed that patients on Retin-A experienced not just clearer but softer, brighter, less-lined skin.
“Is my skin going to look worse before it gets better?”
When you first start using a retinoid product it can cause dryness, redness, and flaking— but if you ease into it, you can avoid a rough transition. For the first two weeks, apply a retinoid every third night, if your skin isn’t irritated, ramp up to every other night for two weeks. Not dry or flaky? Go for it every night.
“Why should I add a Retinoid product to my skin care regimen?”
Retinol gives skin an overall healthier appearance. Retinol can help reduce discoloration, fine lines, wrinkles and skin texture. Plus, it can improve skin tone and color for generally younger-looking, even skin. Still not convinced that you need to use retinol…..here is an overview of all of the wonderful thins it can do to improve the overall look and health of your skin.
- Retinol fights fine lines AND deep wrinkles. Whether you’re looking to prevent future signs of aging or hoping to appear years younger, there’s a Retinol product suited to your needs.
- Retinol can help prevent the signs of premature aging. Early use of products containing pure and stable Retinol will help to combat fine lines before they start to appear noticeable, so skin continues to look years younger than it’s true age.
- Retinol rejuvenates the skin. This vitamin A derivative helps skin produce collagen, a natural component of the dermis that gives skin its youthful, full appearance.
- Retinol stimulates cell turnover. Exfoliating is essential for youthful-looking, healthy skin. By removing dead skin cells, new, healthier cells are able to come through.