14/09/2023
The Benefits of a medical grade Retinol for your skin
Retinols fall under the umbrella of compounds called retinoids, which are all vitamin A derivatives. Prescription-strength retinoids have been available since the 1970s and are found in acne medications, including Retin-A and Roaccutane. Retinol is a milder retinoid, which is why it’s available over the counter. (NYT)
Retinol affects the skin in various ways. It increases skin cell turnover, which causes a natural exfoliation. This helps to clear out clogged pores, which can treat acne and prevent future breakouts.
Retinol also increases the skin’s production of collagen, a protein that boosts firmness and elasticity. Beginning in our 20s, we start to lose about 1 per cent of our skin’s collagen per year. When that happens, our skin starts to sag and become wrinkled; retinol works to counteract this.
In addition, retinol can lessen dark spots. Retinols can help to reduce the overproduction of melanin, particularly in areas where it is concentrated and causing discolouration. A 2015 clinical trial found that when women between the ages of 40 and 55 used a retinol product daily for a year, it reduced the appearance of crow’s feet by 44 percent and skin discoloration by 84 percent. Another clinical trial, from 2009, reported that daily use of a retinol cream in women ages 40 to 60 over a 26-week period reduced the appearance of fine and deep wrinkles.
How to choose the right product
Even though you can pick up a retinol product at nearly any store, it’s best to first consult with a medical skin specialist to ensure that retinol is suitable for you, especially if you are breastfeeding or have a skin condition like eczema or rosacea. We can assess you and advise here at Clarity Aesthetics Pregnant women shouldn’t use retinols.
Generally, dermatologists advise starting with a mild formulation to reduce the risk of redness and irritation. Pick a brand you trust and choose its lowest-concentration product.