Retinol, a form of vitamin A, is an ingredient added to skin creams, lotions, and serums. It has antiaging effects and helps to clear acne. Products that contain retinol are widely available over the counter, and stronger concentrations of retinoids are available by prescription. Retinol is a topical treatment, meaning you can apply it on top of your skin. Retinol comes in many forms, like creams, gels, lotions, ointments, and serums. Retinol is also used as an ingredient in cosmetic products. Retinol helps to increase the skin cell production (proliferation). It also helps unclog pores. Retinol exfoliates the skin and increases collagen production, which reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and gives your skin a fresher, plump appearance. Know more benefits of retinol in detail below.
Benefits Of Retinol
1. Retinol helps get rid of acne
Retinol helps to clear the skin and prevent future outbreaks by unclogging pores. Naturally, less acne means fewer acne scars. Retinoids also enhance the effects of other medicated creams and gels. It allows you to get the most out of whatever treatments you're using.
2. Retinol improves the acne appearance
Retinol helps reduce the visibility of pimples on the skin and also prevents the formation of new spots and acne blemishes. One way through which retinol improves the appearance of acne is by encouraging cell turnover. When dead skin cells start to build up and the oil begins to accumulate inside the hair follicles on the face, this is when the acne forms. Retinol causes these cells to shed and be replaced more quickly.
3. Retinol fights aging signs
Retinol is one of the most widely used and researched anti-aging ingredients. Tretinoin, referred to as all-trans retinoic acid, proves to have significant anti-aging effects. Retinoids increase collagen production and help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. They also promote the formation of new blood vessels in the skin, which helps to improve skin pigmentation.
4. Retinol assists in Skin Tone
One of the many unique properties of retinol is that it stimulates skin cell turnover which results in an exfoliating effect. With retinol, dull and dry skin seems to be new, brighter, and more even-toned skin with increased collagen and elastin levels. The thicker skin becomes firmer and smoother, with fewer imperfections overall.
5. Retinol is safe and gentle
Retinol is safe to use in cosmetics and medical items. Retinol is gentle on the skin and is less prone to induce irritations, including redness, itching and flaking. Though retinol is touted as suitable for all skin types, different strengths are indicated for specific skin types.
Side Effects Of Retinol
Even though retinol provides a plethora of benefits on the skin, it also carries potential side effects if used without taking proper consideration. It is one of the strongest ingredients found in over-the-counter retinoid products and comes in a variety of strengths. It takes around 6 months to show visible results on the face after consistent usage. Most of the side effects are normal with retinol use and seen in almost everyone. However, they usually resolve as the skin accustoms to it with consistent usage. Hence, it is advised to start with low-strength retinol on alternate days and gradually increase the strength and frequency of usage. Retinol increases sun sensitivity, hence, should not be used during the day. Sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) over 30 should be used throughout the year. Some of the side effects of using retinol include:
• It causes skin irritation or reddening if incorporated too quickly into the skincare regimen or used too often.
• Flakiness, dryness, and acne breakouts can occur when retinol is first added to the skincare routine.
• Increased sensitivity to the sun, dry skin, and peeling of the skin.
• Retinol should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women.
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