“...What?”
If you’ve ever received a treatment at La Bella Derma, chances are we’ve had this conversation. Retinol, or vitamin A, is a well-researched ingredient that treats a wide variety of skin concerns–so why is it still so unknown? Let’s sit down together and go through all the applications and concerns regarding this skincare superstar.
How does retinol work?
This one’s for my fellow nerds. When applied to the face, retinol converts to retinoic acid. Retinoic acid then permeates cell membranes in order to stimulate cell growth and turnover. It’s also been shown that retinol stimulates collagen production, resulting in more youthful, plump skin. On top of all that, vitamin A is an antioxidant, which protects our skin against free radicals (AKA unstable molecules in the environment around us that do damage to our skin).
What is retinol used for?
Almost everything! Because it stimulates cell turnover, retinol is ideal for treating skin conditions that affect us on a deep level, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots/hyperpigmentation. This increased cell regeneration also helps keep pores clear, making retinoids a great option for treating acne. In fact, numerous OTC and prescription-only acne treatments are retinoids, such as:
Retin-A (tretinoin)
Differin (adapalene)
Accutane (isotretinoin)
Tazorac- I could go on!
If you have a skin concern, there's likely a retinol for you.
That sounds too good to be true! Are there any risks?
Retinol and retinoids, as I mentioned before, are extremely well researched and understood. That being said, retinol is a potent ingredient and it’s important to introduce it into your routine gradually. Too much retinol too fast can result in redness, sensitivity, dryness, or flaking. Start using it 1-2 days a week and increase over time as your skin gets used to it.
When using a retinol (and also if you’re not!), you should be wearing sunscreen every day. Sunlight deactivates retinol, making it a waste to apply it during the day. Newly surfaced skin is delicate and sensitive to sunlight, making you more likely to sustain photodamage, like dark spots or a sunburn.
Retinoids also increase the chance of skin lifting during waxing, meaning you must stop all retinol use for five days prior to any facial waxing (which is why we always ask about it!).
People who are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding should also stop all retinol usage for the duration of that period.
In conclusion:
Retinol is a safe, reliable ingredient that treats a multitude of skin concerns. It can be found in many OTC serums, creams, and other skin treatments, and a higher concentration may be prescribed by a dermatologist for certain concerns. It should be introduced into your routine slowly to avoid irritation.
Eager to add a retinol to your routine? During your next visit to La Bella Derma, ask your esthetician about PCA’s retinol serums, or book a PCA retinol peel to reveal brand new, healthy skin.
Additional sources:
https://dermnetnz.org/topics/topical-retinoids
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2699641/
https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/how-does-retinol-work
https://www.everydayhealth.com/smart-skin/new-to-retinol-a-complete-guide-on-the-skin-care-ingredient/
https://www.dermstore.com/blog/types-of-retinoids-benefits/
Written By Taylor Blair for La Bella Derma
