Retinoids, originating from vitamin A, are a potent ingredient in skincare, renowned for their capacity to address numerous skin issues and improve the skin's look. They are frequently found in both non-prescription products and prescription treatments.
Retinol Benefits For Facial Skin Health:
Acne: Retinoids prevent comedones (the precursors to pimples) and reduce acne-related inflammation.
Hyperpigmentation: They fade dark spots caused by sun damage, acne scars, or melasma by boosting cell turnover and shedding pigmented cells.
Skin Texture: Retinoids smooth roughness, leading to improved skin texture.
Understanding Retinoid Types:
Retinoids fall into four main categories: retinyl esters, retinol, retinaldehyde, and retinoic acid. All work by binding to retinoic acid receptors in the skin. Regardless of the type applied, your skin can only utilize retinoic acid. Retinyl esters, retinol, and retinaldehyde must convert to retinoic acid before your skin can benefit. The more conversion steps required, the weaker and gentler the retinoid. The goal is to find the most effective form while minimizing potential side effects like redness, irritation, sensitivity, and flaking.
Over-the-Counter Retinoids:
Retinyl Esters: The gentlest retinoid, retinyl esters require three conversion steps to become retinoic acid. They are gentle but may not provide quick, noticeable results.
Retinol: Effective for acne, fine lines, and skin texture refinement, retinol is known for potential irritation, dryness, and peeling, especially for sensitive skin. Acclimation is key. Start with short contact times (e.g., applying at dinner and washing off before bed), mixing with moisturizer, applying over moisturizer, or using once or twice weekly, gradually increasing frequency as tolerated.
Retinaldehyde (Retinal): Stronger than retinol, retinaldehyde requires only one conversion step to retinoic acid. Offering similar benefits to retinol but, generally considered more irritating than retinol yet more gentle than prescription retinoic acid.
Retinoic Acid Esters: A newer class of retinoids, retinoic acid esters are considered to fall between retinol and retinoic acid in terms of efficacy and irritation. They are effective yet gentle. Some, like retinyl retinoate, convert to both retinoic acid and retinol, providing both immediate and delayed benefits. HPR binds directly to retinoid receptors.
Adapalene: A synthetic retinoid derived from naphthoic acid, adapalene doesn't require conversion to retinoic acid. Over-the-counter adapalene (0.1%) is considered the first non-prescription treatment containing a prescription-strength retinoid and is the gentlest prescription retinoid.
Prescription Retinoids:
Retinoic Acid: The most potent retinoid. Tretinoin and isotretinoin are two prescription forms.
Tretinoin (Retin-A): A topical form of pure retinoic acid, it's already active and doesn't require conversion. It's a popular and well-researched retinoid known for its positive effects on photo-aging and acne.
Isotretinoin (Accutane): An oral form of retinoic acid, it's the most potent retinoid overall. Typically reserved for severe, resistant acne, it has more intense side effects, including dry skin, eyes, nose, and lips, and muscle aches. Regular bloodwork is necessary.
Tazarotene (Tazorac): The strongest topical retinoid, tazarotene binds to both beta and gamma retinoic acid receptors. It treats acne, psoriasis, and photodamage.
Retinol Alternatives:
Plant-based "retin-alts" offer similar benefits to retinoids but are gentler, though less effective. They are a good option for those with sensitive skin who can't tolerate retinoids.
Bakuchiol: Derived from the Psoralea corylifolia plant, bakuchiol has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties similar to retinol. It's a great alternative for treating signs of aging like fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven tone.
Important Considerations When Using Retinoids:
Irritation/Dryness: Dryness, irritation, burning, and redness are common. Reduce frequency or buffer application (e.g., apply over moisturizer) until your skin adjusts.
Sun Sensitivity: Sunscreen is essential when using retinoids. They increase cell turnover, leaving fewer cells in the stratum corneum to protect against sun damage.
Purging: Some may experience purging (temporary breakouts) when starting retinoids. This usually subsides within a few weeks.
Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: High amounts of vitamin A are not considered safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Waxing and Exfoliation: Inform your skincare provider if you use retinoids before appointments. Precautions are necessary before waxing and other advanced exfoliation procedures.
Products Available at Bombshell Beauty:
Rare Retinol by Hale and Hush: This retinaldehyde serum combines retinaldehyde with anti-glycation ingredients for anti-wrinkle, anti-redness, and pro-radiance results, minimizing the negative side effects of other retinoids. It increases collagen and elastin production, reduces wrinkles, redness, and inflammation, and improves skin tone and texture.
Retinol Supreme by Rhonda Allison: This potent blend of encapsulated retinol and lactic acid helps break down rough, photo-aged skin. It's recommended for use in conjunction with Rare Retinol and should not be used more than three nights a week.
PM Restore by Tizo Skin: This product corrects visible signs of aging, reducing fine lines and wrinkles with minimal irritation. It evens out pigmentation, improves firmness and texture, and provides antioxidant protection. It accelerates cellular turnover, improves tone and texture, and helps restore the skin's natural lipid layer balance.
Facial Booster Vitamin A Peptide Peel: This treatment is applied following a facial and is designed to remain on the skin for approximately 12 hours before being gently washed away.
The Vitamin A+ Peptide Peel boasts a potent retinol concentrate, enriched with a tri-peptide encapsulated in liposomes. Additionally, it incorporates natural, 100% chiral L-Carnitine to enhance exfoliation support. By stimulating the natural desquamation process, the Vitamin A+ Peptide Peel promotes a smoother complexion, reduces the appearance of fine lines and uneven pigmentation, and imparts clarity and radiance to the skin. The infusion of peptides further contributes to a visibly toned and firmer appearance.
Comments