Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common types of retinol found in skin-care products?
First things first, retinol is not a catch-all term. “Retinoids is the general term that includes all the vitamin A derivatives both natural and synthetic,” Caroline Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Rhode Island Dermatology Institute, previously said. The topical retinoids most commonly used in skin care are retinoic acid, retinol, retinyl esters, and retinaldehyde.
What are the benefits of retinoids?
“[Retinoids] are keratolytics, which means they increase skin cell turnover and are known to stimulate collagen synthesis,” Sheila Farhang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Tuscon, Arizona, previously explained.
How do retinoids work?
While retinoic acid (also known as tretinoin) is only found in prescription formulas, retinol is the most common vitamin A derivative that pops up in over-the-counter (OTC) skin-care products—and it’s arguably just as effective. “There’s a lot of literature showing that while retinol is more gentle than retinoic acid, biochemically it does exactly the same thing—it may just take longer to see results,” Dana Sachs, MD, an associate professor of dermatology at the University of Michigan Medical School, previously told Allure.
What concentrations do you recommend for patients just starting out with retinoids?
Even for beginners, there’s no one correct dosage. “If they have sensitive skin, I typically start them on 0.25% and have them use it twice a week,” Dr. Kim recommends. “If they have regular skin, I start them on 0.5% twice weekly, and if they have really oily skin, I typically start them on a prescription retinoic acid twice weekly right away.”
What active ingredients should be avoided when using retinol?
Dr. Kim cautions against using any exfoliating acids, including AHA (glycolic acid, lactic acid), BHA (salicylic acid), and PHA, as they can further irritate the skin. However, if you’d like to incorporate both without causing irritation and inflammation, try alternating days between the two types of formulations.
Key Ingredients:
Retinol, oat extract, silver mushroom, ceramides, and hydroxymehtoxyphenyl decanone are all key ingredients that ease any irritation associated with the retinol itself.
What skin type is this best for?
This is best for normal skin.
Fragrance-free:
Yes
Conclusion:
Retinoids are a common ingredient in many skin-care products, and while they can be effective, it’s important to understand how they work and how to use them safely. By incorporating retinoids into your routine, you can improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, reduce acne, and promote collagen production.
FAQs:
Q: What are the most common types of retinol found in skin-care products?
A: Retinoic acid, retinol, retinyl esters, and retinaldehyde.
Q: What are the benefits of retinoids?
A: Retinoids increase skin cell turnover and stimulate collagen synthesis.
Q: How do retinoids work?
A: Retinoids work by increasing skin cell turnover and stimulating collagen synthesis, making them a effective ingredient in many skin-care products.
Q: What concentrations do you recommend for patients just starting out with retinoids?
A: Depending on skin type, concentrations of 0.25%, 0.5%, or 1% may be recommended.
Q: What active ingredients should be avoided when using retinol?
A: Exfoliating acids such as AHA, BHA, and PHA should be avoided when using retinol.