What are retinoids and why should you be using them?
Retinoids have been a talking point in the skincare world for several years now and these skin-transforming powerhouses can now be found in a variety of products from leading brands on a global level.
But what exactly are retinoids and what benefits do they have?
The History of Retinoids
In the US, the retinoid tretinoin was approved for use as a topical treatment for acne by the Food and Drug Administration in the early 1970s and it wasn't long before dermatologists started to understand the potent anti-ageing benefits it could also deliver.
These anti-ageing properties become visible as retinoids both increase surface skin cell turnover and boost collagen production. This, in turn, minimises lines and wrinkles, improves skin tone, and leads to an overall plumper, more youthful looking complexion.
Now, the term retinoids refers to a wide selection of products that contain vitamin A, which include both topical and oral treatments.
What is Retinol?
Retinol is a type of retinoid that can be found in countless products that are available to purchase over the counter. Retinol is renowned for its ability to even out skin texture, minimise pigmentation, and improve skin tone.
It works by penetrating beneath the outer layer of the skin and neutralising free radicals in the dermis. This process increases the natural production of collagen and elastin, which leads to a pumped effect that minimises the appearance of lines, wrinkles and enlarged pores.
Retinoids like retinol also work to exfoliate the surface layer of the skin, which is how they can help to improve skin tone and texture.
A Word of Caution
If you want smooth skin and a fresh, clear complexion, retinoids are likely to become your secret weapon. However, it isn't possible to buy any old product containing retinoids and expect to see instantly positive results.
Instead, it is important to slowly build your tolerance to retinoids and find a concentration that works for your skin. If too much retinol is applied to the skin, it can cause redness, irritation, peeling and flaking. But the good news is that there are ways to incorporate retinoids into your routine whilst minimising or side-stepping these unwanted side effects altogether.
Generally, starting by incorporating a low strength retinoid into your skin care routine once a week is recommended, only increasing usage when it is clear that the skin has become accustomed to a very small amount of product. Most people will start to see the benefits within a matter of weeks, even when using a very low percentage.
Want to Learn More About Retinoids?
If you are keen to learn more about how retinoids could help you to achieve your dream complexion, please don't hesitate to reach out and book a personalised one-to-one skin consultation here at the clinic. The good news is that it's never too late to incorporate retinoids into your skin care routine and start experiencing the myriad benefits for yourself.
During your appointment, we can discuss your unique skin concerns and we can work together to create a bespoke treatment plan which may include a combination of aesthetic treatments and medical-grade skin care products that we know work to deliver the results they promise. Simply call the clinic or send us an email at your earliest convenience to arrange your consultation.
