Five Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Retinol



Dr. Scott is a doctor from Harvard Med School and…
Retinol, also called vitamin A, is a fat-soluble vitamin in the vitamin A family found in food and used as a dietary supplement. As a supplement it is used to treat and prevent vitamin A deficiency, especially that which results in Xerophthalmia. Retinol is a popular ingredient dermatologists use to help treat acne and other skin conditions.
Retinol is an antioxidant that helps prevent wrinkles and sun damage. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce redness and swell in the skin.
Five Facts To Know About Retinol
- Retinol has a long history of use in cosmetics.
Retinol was first discovered in 1929 when scientists isolated retinoic acid (RA) from the liver of pregnant rats. RA was later found to be responsible for the development of embryonic structures during pregnancy. Since then, it has been used as a topical treatment for acne and psoriasis.
- It’s often used as a powerful anti-aging.
Retinol is often used as an anti-aging ingredient because it helps improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Most dermatologists agree that Retinol is probably the most powerful anti-aging active ingredient. However, there isn’t enough evidence to support claims that it will prevent aging.
- It’s becoming one of the most potent skincare ingredients.
Retinol is commonly found as a skincare ingredient in cosmetics that target wrinkles and other skin issues. Nowadays, most brands add retinol to moisturisers, eye creams, and even to makeup products to ensure their products will provide good results to the consumer.
- Retinol is derived from Vitamin A.
Retinol is one of the most potent ingredients available when it comes to treating acne. It helps reduce inflammation and redness while promoting cell turnover. This makes it an effective treatment for both mild and moderate cases of acne. Retinol is derived from vitamin A which can easily be found in leafy green vegetables (kale, spinach, broccoli), orange and yellow vegetables (carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin and other winter squash, summer squash.
- It’s not just for skincare anymore.
Retinol has been used as a topical treatment since the 1960s. However, it wasn’t until the 1990s that retinoids were found to be safe and effective when applied topically to treat other skin issues such as wrinkles. Since then, it has become a staple ingredient in skincare products. Nowadays, you can find Retinol in pure formulas that also treat hair, nails, scalp and other health conditions.
Bottom Line
Retinol increases skin cell production (proliferation) and helps unclog pores. Retinol also exfoliates your skin and increases collagen production, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, giving your skin a fresher, plump appearance. Retinol is also sometimes used as a dietary supplement to treat or make up for vitamin A deficiency. Vitamin A deficiency can cause night blindness and xerophthalmia (non-reversible damage to the cornea). Retinol supplementation is used to treat and prevent these conditions.
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Dr. Scott is a doctor from Harvard Med School and a dermatology resident at the University of Miami. Laura is known for her authentic advice. Her goal is to find beauty in all things and to enjoy every moment of life...