What Makes Retinol A Powerful Anti Aging Ingredient?

Retinol is an ingredient that should make up your skincare shelves if you desire to achieve anti-aging effects. Retinol is a vitamin A derivative and is available as an over-the-counter preparation. In addition, retinol is the most potent OTC version of retinoids compared to other preparations such as Retinaldehyde and Retinyl Palmitate.

Retinol has many potential skin benefits but also poses some side effects for the skin. This article discussed why retinol is the dermatologist’s favorite and a powerful anti-aging ingredient.

How Does Retinol Work?

Retinol is a form of vitamin A that does not remove dead skin cells like most other skincare products. Instead, it penetrates the deeper layers of the skin and goes down to the dermis. Once in the deeper layers of the skin, it neutralizes the free radicals and helps boost collagen and elastin production. This, in turn, helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and enlarged pores.

The Benefits Of Retinol

The prime beneficial effect of retinol is to fight the signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles. In addition to this, retinol provides other beneficial effects, which include:

1. Reduces the size of enlarged pores
2. Reduces and prevents sun damage
3. It Evens out skin texture
4. Reduces hyperpigmentation and melasma

To achieve the maximum benefits of retinol, use it regularly for at least 2-3 months. 

The Side Effects Of Retinol

Although the FDA has approved retinol use, that does not mean that it is free from side effects. The side effects of using retinol include:

1. Skin irritation
2. Redness
3. Skin peeling

To lessen the side effects, try using retinol every other day or every third day. Moreover, using retinol 30 minutes after washing your face can help reduce skin irritation.

In about 10 percent of people, the following aggressive side effects of retinol have been noted:

1. Acne flare-ups
2. Stinging
3. Photosensitivity to UV rays
4. Skin discoloration
5. Swelling
6. Blistering
7. An eczema flare-up

FAQs:

Q1. Can I use a moisturizer with retinol?

Yes, you can use a moisturizer along with a retinol skin care product; if you are using a retinol product, your nighttime skincare routine should include the following steps:

• Wash your face
• Dab your face with a towel to dry it
• Apply retinol
• Wait for a few minutes
• Then apply a moisturizer

Q2. Does retinol ruin the skin?

Retinol has specific side effects, including skin irritation, redness, itching, and peeling. Talk with your dermatologist to reduce the risk of side effects.

See Also

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Q3. How long does it take to see the results of retinol?

It may take a few weeks of regular use to see the full effects of retinol use. It is recommended to use retinol for 12 weeks to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fight the aging signs.

References

Krant, J. (2017, July). Retinol: One of the Best Ingredients for Fighting Fine Lines and Wrinkles. Retrieved from Art of dermatology: https://artofdermatology.com/retinol-one-best-ingredients-fighting-fine-lines-wrinkles/

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