As you age, fine lines and wrinkles begin to form and your skin loses its smoothness and elasticity. Years of sun exposure also cause changes in your complexion. Vitamin A can help prevent and reverse these signs of aging. Two popular forms of Retinoids are Retinol and Retin-A. They’re both made from vitamin A and promote faster skin cell turnover, and are some of the most proven, effective, and powerful options for treating skin issues ranging from acne to aging. Many anti-wrinkle and skin rejuvenation products contain retinol. Retinol and retinoic acid are related but distinctly different. Many people confuse Retinol with Retin A, but I am here to give you a clear understanding of the differences.
Retinoids
Retinoids come in prescription form (Retin A) and in a range of over-the-counter products (Retinols).
Prescription-level retinoids fall into these groups:
- Tretinoin, including the brands Atralin, Retin-A, Retin-A Micro, and Renova
- Tazarotene, such as the brand Tazorac
- Adapalene, such as the brand Differin
All prevent the buildup of dead cells in the skin’s pores and follicles, and all promote the growth of healthy cells.
Retinol
Simply put, Retinol is a natural form of vitamin A and are much weaker then prescription retinoids. It is found in many products that don’t require a prescription and is an extremely effective cell-communicating ingredient. This means it can literally connect to almost any skin cell and tell it to behave like a healthy, younger skin cell. Retinol is also an antioxidant, and thus can interrupt the free-radical damage process that causes skin to look and act older. This action helps prevent wrinkling and increases collagen production. Retinol is effective at managing acne and eczema, as well as improving discoloration; wrinkles from sun damage and even improve pore function and size!
All of these benefits are why retinol helps your skin look and act younger! In total, retinol can help more than 100 skin issues. It is a true superstar for your skin!
Important Fact: If vitamin A is not listed as one of the top five ingredients and the product is not packaged in an airtight opaque bottle to reduce oxidation, what you’re getting might not be all that effective. A product I like by Cosmedix called Define has encapsulated vitamin A and is what I personally use.
Retin A
Retin-A is derived from retinoic acid, a synthetic derivative of vitamin A, and considered pharmaceutical is the brand name for tretinoin. It is mainly prescribed as an acne or skin treatment, at concentration levels ranging from 0.01 to 0.1 percent, depending on your skin type. Retin-A is much stronger than retinol, and also has a direct effect on the skin by speeding up the natural exfoliation process that will enhance collagen production. Retin A must be used daily for at least three months to achieve maximum results. Within one month you will begin to notice improvement in the appearance and smoothness of your skin. Retinol does not appear to be as effective as Retin-A in improving the signs of aging.
Side Effects of Retin-A and Retinols
Before using a new skincare product, find out about its side effects, if any. It is true that retinol products tend to have fewer side effects than retinoic acid. However, high concentrations of retinol can be almost as irritating to the skin as retinoic acid. Common side effects for both can include dryness, redness, irritation, and skin peeling as well as making skin more sensitive to the sun. The side effects associated with Retin-A are caused by its very strong effect on skin cell differentiation. Conversely, retinol has much milder effect on the skin, so adverse reactions are less likely. Retinol has been suggested as a good alternative for those with sensitive skin.
Neither Retin-A nor any retinols should be used by breastfeeding or pregnant women.
Bottom line
Retinoic acid a.k.a. tretinoin (sold as Retin A, Renova and other brands) appears to provide a better shot at eliminating fine lines and reducing wrinkles than even the best retinol formulations. Tretinoin users who experience skin irritation and/or chronic peeling could try to eliminate the side effects by reducing the concentration and/or frequency of application. If that fails, a well-selected retinol product may be worth a try.
Come to the Laser Image Company and let us help you get the Retinoid product to best fit your beautiful skin.
