What Are Retinoids?
Retinol is the purest form of vitamin A available for use on your skin. It consists of the whole vitamin A molecule, which is really beneficial for skincare. Because retinol is a very potent form of antioxidant, it’s also used in anti-aging skincare products. It protects skin from damage by free radicals to stimulate skin growth and cell regeneration. Retinols are so effective because the molecules are small enough to penetrate the outer layers of skin, as far as the elastin and collagen layers, where they repair the skin from inside. When retinoids come into contact with skin, enzymes in the body convert it to retinoic acid. Retinoic acid is the active form of vitamin A.
Other retinoids include retinoic acid (also known as tretinoin), retinyl palmitate, and retinaldehyde. Tretinoin is the active ingredient in prescription acne creams.
In the case of acne, retinoids work because they make cells regenerate faster. And it also reduces their ‘stickiness,’ which stops dead cells from clogging up the pores. Retinol also helps slow down sebum production, so it has a two-pronged effect on acne-prone skin.
Retinoids for Wrinkles
The first retinoid product approved by the FDA for wrinkles was Tretinoin. Tretinoin works by stimulating collagen production, plumping out the skin. Because it also stimulates the blood vessels in your skin, it can sometimes give you a more youthful and rosy appearance, as well as helping to fade age spots. It had plenty of medical benefits as well as cosmetic ones too. Tretinoin also affects reducing pre-cancerous skin spots called actinic keratosis. Tretinoin also may help prevent some of the effects of ultraviolet radiation.
Although there are no over-the-counter products available that contain Tretinoin, there are other really effective retinol-based creams that can be great for helping to reduce the signs of wrinkles. Some products help in making sun-damaged skin look better too. They are most effective if you use them along with other skincare products containing alpha-hydroxy acids, as these can really give your skin a much smoother appearance.
A word of warning; using any retinol product will make your skin more sensitive to UV light. So whether you’re using a retinol product for acne or its anti-aging benefits, you should always use a good quality sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher at the same time. And make sure that any retinol products you apply during the day are suitable for daytime use too.
Speak to your esthetician if you’d like more advice about how retinoids work. They can provide recommendations about the type of retinoid treatment that would suit your skin and how best to use it.
Good News! Bakuchiol – A Natural Retinol Alternative For Sensitive Skin
The good news is, Brilliant Massage & Skin now offers a natural alternative to retinol. Good for those experiencing irritation to retinol content or those who have sensitive skin. Made from all-natural organic ingredients designed to improve skin brightness, boost skin firmness, smooth out the texture, and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles caused by aging. Brilliant Bakuchiol is now available exclusively on Amazon and through our website. Order now to experience the wonders of Brilliant Bakuchiol Natural Retinol Alternative.
Brilliant Massage & Skin
Burlington, Vermont
