A lot of patients talk about, or use, over-the-counter (OTC) skincare products that contain retinol. So what exactly is it?
What Is Retinol?
Retinol, a type of Vitamin A, is an over-the-counter member of the “retinoid” family of vitamin A derivatives. Retinol is converted into retinoic acid for use in skincare and comes in both topical and oral as well as over-the-counter and prescription strengths.
Commonly utilized to treat skin issues such as hyperpigmentation, acne, and brown spots while also having a positive effect on reducing the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles, “Retinol” is used in several different skincare product formulations.
By increasing skin cell production (aka proliferation), Retinol helps the skin in many ways, including to help unclog pores and exfoliate your skin to increase collagen production, which can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles (giving your skin a fresher appearance).
Who Should Use Retinol?
Patients with acne, acne scars, large pores, dark spots, melasma, psoriasis, and those looking to get rid of fine lines and wrinkles may all want to consider using Retinol as part of their skincare routine.
Patients should always talk to their healthcare provider before using any retinol product to make sure they are using the correct retinol strength and/or formulation for their skin type and color.
Best Practices for Retinol Use
The first and most important best practice tip is to consult your healthcare provider before starting any Retinol product. Only your healthcare provider will know your medical history and the chances of complications with the product. Some of the factors they will take into consideration include:
- Your skin type and color
- Previous experience with the use of a retinoid product
- Your overall skin health and tendencies toward dryness or oiliness
- Other skincare products that you are also using
Another thing to take into consideration are possible side effects these can range from dry and/or irritated skin to redness/peeling/or flaky skin. You may also experience a heightened danger of sunburn or itching and generalized burning sensations.
It’s a good idea to start slow to determine if your body is going to have any reaction and to notify your healthcare provider if you experience any unexpected changes in your skin tone or coloration.
What products does Skincredible carry that have Retinol?
We pride ourselves on only carrying quality, safe products, and our Retinol selection is no exception. Currently, we offer four different Retinol products, all with a unique purpose.
Enriched Retinol Eye Repair Cream (Skincredible Private Line)
This rich and hydrating deep moisturizing eye cream helps smooth fine lines and wrinkles while minimizing dark circles and puffiness. Includes All-trans-retinol, Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramide and Peptide complexes, Niacinamide, Caffeine USP, Arnica and Vitamin K.
All-Trans-Retinol Smoothing Serums – 5X & 10X (Skincredible Private Line)
This is an advanced serum targeting the multiple signs of aging. All-trans retinol increases cell turnover, smoothing fine lines and fading dark spots. Hyaluronic acid hydrates and plumps, creating a soft and smooth texture. Green tea polyphenols protect against free radicals and reduce redness while caffeine enlivens the skin’s antioxidants.
Retinol & Bakuchiol Serum 2.5X (Skincredible Private Line)
A clinically proven All-trans-Retinol that helps to improve the look of discoloration, fine lines, wrinkles, pore size, and blemishes. Bakuchiol boasts overall antioxidant activity, increasing the retinol benefits and visibly reducing the incidence of redness or irritation.
Tripeptide-R Neck Repair (Skinceuticals)
A daily retinol cream specifically formulated for the neck. Designed to target early to advanced signs of neck aging, including lines and wrinkles. Formulated with 0.2% pure, slow-release retinol, 2.5% tripeptide concentrate, and 5.0% glaucine complex, this corrective technology is clinically demonstrated to target multiple signs of visible neck aging.
Are you ready?
Our trained clinicians are available to assist you in achieving your skincare goals and recommend the best products for you! Contact us today to schedule your consultation to find out if one of our recommended products is right for your skin!
As the leaves begin to change and the fall social scene beckons, this is the perfect time to kiss that tired, summer skin goodbye!