If you’re a big fan of skincare products you’ve probably heard of its newest trend: retinoids. But what exactly are retinoids? Often dubbed the “secret to antiaging”, retinoids are a vitamin A derivative. They have been featured in both a variety of drug store brands and pharmaceuticals. At first retinoids were used in the skincare routines of older individuals, but now there has been a trend of younger generations using the product. This year I started using Tretinoin, which is a form of retinoid. Since using it, I’ve had very little acne and clearer skin. I’ve been so proud of my results and would definitely recommend the product to those looking for a new addition to their skincare routine. So here are some quick facts about retinoids!
What makes retinoids different?
Retinoids are mostly animal-based, but there are still plant-based versions of retinol. If you decide to use a plant-based retinol, note that you can still receive the same health benefits. Some retinoids are also labeled as “clean”, which is important in the new age of skincare trends. While some brands of retinoids use harsh preservatives, clean retinoids use plants rich in vitamin A in order to retain their high retinol content and avoid preservatives. Eating a diet high in vitamin A is also known to provide an added source of retinoids, which is great for our health.
There are numerous benefits of retinoids!
Retinoids are often praised for improving skin texture and pigmentation, but they can do so much more! Lately, retinoids have been used for acne medications and scarring. Unlike many other brands, retinoids are a topical cream so you don’t have to worry about taking pills. Additionally, retinoids can brighten your skin along with exfoliating it in order to give you a more youthful appearance. They also increase your collagen production which helps straighten and firm your skin. Luckily along with getting rid of skin impurities, retinoids also prevent them from reoccurring .When using retinoids it’s best to apply them at night for the best results. Additionally, retinoids must be used regularly to work. It usually takes three to four months to start noticing changes.
Retinol is its most common form and the most popular
Retinol is a type of retinoid that is a derivative of vitamin A. It is the second strongest after Adapalene. It is often praised for speeding up cell regeneration, fading dark spots and treating acne. However, most doctors only recommend retinol after using a weaker derivative. There is also a natural alternative of retinol called Bakuchiol, which closely mimics the effects of retinol.
However, retinoids do have some side effects.
First, find what strength of retinoid works for you. For beginners, it is recommended that you start with the weakest strength and then work your way up after consulting a dermatologist. Also depending on what strength of retinoid you use, you could experience a few side effects. After initial usage, you may experience some skin peeling, purging, or irritation. Additionally retinoids may thin out your skin which can put you at an increased risk of sunburn, which is why it is encouraged that you wear sunscreen. Dermatologists also warn against the usage of serums such as vitamin C along with retinoids, as you could irritate your skin. Also one of the most important rules with retinoids is to avoid face waxing. Unless you stop using your retinoids a week in advance, you could face burns or skin irritation. I recently got my face waxed without realizing this and faced the consequences. Luckily another alternative is threading as it doesn’t tug on your skin.
As with any new skin care product you should always ask a doctor before trying it.
If you are still unsure about trying retinoids, consider natural forms of vitamin A in order to achieve some of the same effects!