Retinoids are a class of ingredients that have been used for decades to treat acne, wrinkles, and other skin conditions. You may know them by their popular trade names (which include Retin-A and Tazorac), but if you’re not familiar with these active ingredients, here’s what you need to know: They’re powerful anti-agers that can help boost collagen production and make your skin look smoother. In this article, we'll explain what they are and how they work so that you can determine whether they're right for your skin type!
What Are Retinoids?
Retinoids are a class of medicine used to treat acne and other skin conditions. They're also known as vitamin A derivatives, because they have a similar molecular structure to retinol (one form of vitamin A) but with added benefits.
Retinoids can be applied topically or taken orally in pill form; they work by interfering with the production of sebum, which helps keep your pores clean and clear. Retinoids are available in many different forms:
- Retinol is the most common form of this ingredient - you've likely heard about it before! This is what you'll find in many over-the-counter products like moisturizers and serums that promise anti-aging benefits without harsh chemicals or irritants such as benzoyl peroxide (BP). If you're interested in trying out retinol, but aren't sure where to begin, check out our guide on choosing an effective one here.
- Tazarotene gel was approved by the FDA back in 2001 after studies showed it could effectively treat acne while reducing inflammation caused by breakouts without causing irritation or drying out skin too much like BP does.
How Do Retinoids Work?
Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives, and they're also known as retinoids because they're derived from vitamin A. The exact mechanism of action is still unknown, but it's believed that retinoids work by increasing cell turnover and helping to keep skin firm and reduce wrinkles. Retinoids also help prevent acne by slowing down the growth of new sebum-producing cells in the sebaceous glands (which causes blackheads).
What Are The Benefits Of Using Retinoids?
Retinoids are one of the most powerful anti-aging ingredients you can use in your skincare routine. They work by increasing cell turnover, which makes skin appear smoother and more even toned. Retinoids also help reduce wrinkles, acne scars, redness and even out skin tone by stimulating collagen production.
Retinoids are generally formulated as a serum or cream that should be applied nightly after cleansing the face with a gentle cleanser (we recommend Foaming Facial Cleanser). You only need to use them at night because they can make your skin sensitive to sunlight - and believe us when we say it's not worth risking sun damage just for clearer skin!
Who Should Use Retinoids?
Retinoids are generally recommended for all skin types, but it's important to note that not everyone can use them. Because retinoids can be irritants and exfoliate the skin too aggressively for some people, they're best suited for those with normal-to-dry complexions. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, consult your dermatologist before trying out a retinoid product - they may not be right for you.
Additionally, since retinoids speed up cell turnover and encourage collagen production (two processes which are often associated with redness), they may cause irritation in sensitive individuals as well as those who use products containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). If this sounds like you then stay away from both AHAs and retinol products!
Careful Sun Exposure Can Lead To Excessive Aging And Skin Damage, These Ingredients Can Help Protect Your Skin
Retinoids are a key ingredient in skin care products. They're derived from vitamin A, and they can help treat acne, wrinkles and other skin conditions.
Retinoids may be used by people with sensitive skin because they don't cause irritation like other ingredients do. However, it's important to use them carefully - overuse can lead to excessive aging and damage to your skin.
Conclusion
We hope this article has helped you understand the benefits of using retinoids in your skin care routine. They are some of the most powerful ingredients for anti-aging and can help reduce fine lines, wrinkles and discoloration. If you have any questions about whether or not these products are right for you, please feel free to reach out!
