What is retinol? skincare benefits, side effects and more
Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, is part of a larger family of compounds known as retinoids. These compounds share similar properties and effects on the body as vitamin A itself.
Vitamin A is essential for various bodily functions, including maintaining good eyesight, supporting a robust immune system, and promoting healthy skin. Since our bodies do not produce vitamin A naturally, we must obtain it through our diet. Foods rich in vitamin A include liver, milk, and eggs. Additionally, retinol is widely available as an oral supplement and as an active ingredient in topical creams and serums.
Dr. Catherine Borysiewicz, a consultant dermatologist at King Edward VII Hospital, notes that vitamin A and its derivatives have long been celebrated as key ingredients in skincare.
She says: “Retinol was first introduced in skincare products in the 1980s, with its anti-aging properties documented in medical literature by 1995. Today, dermatologists frequently recommend retinol and other retinoids to treat various skin issues, including acne, excessive oiliness, and signs of aging.”
As a milder form of vitamin A, retinol is commonly found in over-the-counter creams and serums designed to combat dark spots and aging signs. However, it may not be effective for treating acne scars.
Borysiewicz explains that retinoid products used for severe nodulocystic acne penetrate deeper than standard over-the-counter retinols.
Retinol offers numerous benefits for various skin types. Its antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals, which are harmful molecules generated by environmental stressors like pollution and UV radiation from the sun.
Free radicals can damage skin by breaking down collagen, a protein responsible for skin elasticity and firmness. When collagen is compromised, it leads to fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin.
Borysiewicz explains: “Using a retinol product on your skin encourages the thickening of the outermost skin layer (epidermis) and stimulates collagen production.”
This results in a firmer skin structure, reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Retinol also enhances skin cell turnover, shedding old, dead skin cells and replacing them with fresh, healthy ones.
Retinol is available in various strengths as an active ingredient in skincare products. Higher concentrations yield more potent effects, but starting with a lower concentration is advisable to minimize irritation. The lowest available concentration is 0.3% retinol.
Borysiewicz says: “A personal tip is to gradually increase the time retinol is on your skin to limit irritation, which I refer to as ‘short contact’ treatment.”
For the first two weeks, apply retinol to cleansed skin and leave it on for one to two hours before rinsing and moisturizing. This gradual approach helps your skin acclimate to retinol, reducing irritation risks.
Another method is to use retinol a few times a week, gradually increasing to every other day, and eventually to daily use. If severe irritation or dryness occurs, Borysiewicz advises stopping the product immediately.
When to use retinol serum
Retinol can increase skin sensitivity to UV radiation, and sunlight can deactivate retinol. Therefore, it is best used at night, with broad-spectrum high SPF sunscreen being essential during the day.
While retinol has garnered significant attention as a skincare miracle, it is essential to consider its safety for long-term use. Borysiewicz notes, “Like most medical and beauty treatments, retinol has potential side effects. As the concentration and dosage increase, so does the likelihood of side effects, including retinoid dermatitis.”
She explains: “Retinoid dermatitis typically presents as redness and small bumps, resulting in a rough, uneven texture similar to sandpaper. Sensitive areas like around the mouth and eyes may be more prone to these reactions, which can be sore, dry, and peeling.”
In addition to retinoid dermatitis, retinol can cause general redness, inflammation, and itching. More severe reactions, such as retinoid purge, where existing spots worsen during initial acne treatment, are usually associated with prescription-strength retinoids.
Despite these potential side effects, studies have shown that retinol is both safe and effective.
Can I use retinol while pregnant?
Pregnant and breastfeeding individuals should avoid retinol. If you have particularly sensitive skin, consulting a dermatologist is advisable.
To enhance retinol’s benefits while minimizing unwanted symptoms, choose complementary skincare products. Borysiewicz recommends selecting gentle, hydrating cleansers and moisturizers.
Can you use vitamin C with retinol?
If you incorporate topical vitamin C into your skincare routine, avoid using it simultaneously with retinol due to differing pH levels, which can reduce their effectiveness. Instead, use vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night.
Can you use hyaluronic acid with retinol?
Retinol can be safely combined with other active ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, although caution is advised with some combinations.
Can you use retinol with AHAs?
Borysiewicz cautions that if you are starting retinol, it may not mix well with other active ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), as these exfoliants could heighten retinol-induced irritation on sensitive skin.
In summary, retinol is a valuable addition to any anti-aging skincare regimen and can be integrated into most routines without issues. If you have specific concerns or uncertainties, consulting a dermatologist is always a wise choice.
Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, is part of a larger family of compounds known as retinoids. These compounds share similar properties and effects on the body as vitamin A itself.
Vitamin A is essential for various bodily functions, including maintaining good eyesight, supporting a robust immune system, and promoting healthy skin. Since our bodies do not produce vitamin A naturally, we must obtain it through our diet. Foods rich in vitamin A include liver, milk, and eggs. Additionally, retinol is widely available as an oral supplement and as an active ingredient in topical creams and serums.
Dr. Catherine Borysiewicz, a consultant dermatologist at King Edward VII Hospital, notes that vitamin A and its derivatives have long been celebrated as key ingredients in skincare.
She says: “Retinol was first introduced in skincare products in the 1980s, with its anti-aging properties documented in medical literature by 1995. Today, dermatologists frequently recommend retinol and other retinoids to treat various skin issues, including acne, excessive oiliness, and signs of aging.”
As a milder form of vitamin A, retinol is commonly found in over-the-counter creams and serums designed to combat dark spots and aging signs. However, it may not be effective for treating acne scars.
Borysiewicz explains that retinoid products used for severe nodulocystic acne penetrate deeper than standard over-the-counter retinols.
Retinol offers numerous benefits for various skin types. Its antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals, which are harmful molecules generated by environmental stressors like pollution and UV radiation from the sun.
Free radicals can damage skin by breaking down collagen, a protein responsible for skin elasticity and firmness. When collagen is compromised, it leads to fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin.
Borysiewicz explains: “Using a retinol product on your skin encourages the thickening of the outermost skin layer (epidermis) and stimulates collagen production.”
This results in a firmer skin structure, reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Retinol also enhances skin cell turnover, shedding old, dead skin cells and replacing them with fresh, healthy ones.
Retinol is available in various strengths as an active ingredient in skincare products. Higher concentrations yield more potent effects, but starting with a lower concentration is advisable to minimize irritation. The lowest available concentration is 0.3% retinol.
Borysiewicz says: “A personal tip is to gradually increase the time retinol is on your skin to limit irritation, which I refer to as ‘short contact’ treatment.”
For the first two weeks, apply retinol to cleansed skin and leave it on for one to two hours before rinsing and moisturizing. This gradual approach helps your skin acclimate to retinol, reducing irritation risks.
Another method is to use retinol a few times a week, gradually increasing to every other day, and eventually to daily use. If severe irritation or dryness occurs, Borysiewicz advises stopping the product immediately.
When to use retinol serum
Retinol can increase skin sensitivity to UV radiation, and sunlight can deactivate retinol. Therefore, it is best used at night, with broad-spectrum high SPF sunscreen being essential during the day.
While retinol has garnered significant attention as a skincare miracle, it is essential to consider its safety for long-term use. Borysiewicz notes, “Like most medical and beauty treatments, retinol has potential side effects. As the concentration and dosage increase, so does the likelihood of side effects, including retinoid dermatitis.”
She explains: “Retinoid dermatitis typically presents as redness and small bumps, resulting in a rough, uneven texture similar to sandpaper. Sensitive areas like around the mouth and eyes may be more prone to these reactions, which can be sore, dry, and peeling.”
In addition to retinoid dermatitis, retinol can cause general redness, inflammation, and itching. More severe reactions, such as retinoid purge, where existing spots worsen during initial acne treatment, are usually associated with prescription-strength retinoids.
Despite these potential side effects, studies have shown that retinol is both safe and effective.
Can I use retinol while pregnant?
Pregnant and breastfeeding individuals should avoid retinol. If you have particularly sensitive skin, consulting a dermatologist is advisable.
To enhance retinol’s benefits while minimizing unwanted symptoms, choose complementary skincare products. Borysiewicz recommends selecting gentle, hydrating cleansers and moisturizers.
Can you use vitamin C with retinol?
If you incorporate topical vitamin C into your skincare routine, avoid using it simultaneously with retinol due to differing pH levels, which can reduce their effectiveness. Instead, use vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night.
Can you use hyaluronic acid with retinol?
Retinol can be safely combined with other active ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, although caution is advised with some combinations.
Can you use retinol with AHAs?
Borysiewicz cautions that if you are starting retinol, it may not mix well with other active ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), as these exfoliants could heighten retinol-induced irritation on sensitive skin.
In summary, retinol is a valuable addition to any anti-aging skincare regimen and can be integrated into most routines without issues. If you have specific concerns or uncertainties, consulting a dermatologist is always a wise choice.
