Our last article on retinol (read it here) was very popular and we got a lot of questions about it and what exactly can it treat. We know there is a lot of confusion out there, so we decided to create another article focusing only on your questions.
A LOW-STRENGTH RETINOL PRODUCT DOES NOT REALLY DO ANY GOOD
That’s a myth! All retinoids accelerate collagen production (resulting in smoother, plumper, fresher-looking skin), regardless of which type you choose. The gentle, retinol-enriched product will not reduce your wrinkles as quickly as pure, prescription retinol but all over-the-counter retinoids will work in the long run, and usually with far fewer side effects. Which we recommend to start with!
RETINOL CAN CLEAR UP YOUR ACNE?
Yes! Specially for people who are more resistant to other acne treatment products. Retinol may be just what you need. By unclogging pores, retinol clears the skin and prevents further breakouts from occurring. Less acne also leads to fewer acne scars. Increased skin cell turnover not only removes a key factor in the development of acne - namely, dead skin cells - but there is another benefit. Retinol keep pores clear and open so other topical acne medications can penetrate more effectively if needed.
Note: To put it in a nutshell: Retinol - along with other retinoids such as retinoic acid and retinyl palmitate - is essentially a derivative of vitamin A, which is one of the main ingredients in our Acne treatment oil.
RETINOL CAN FIGHT SIGNS OF SKIN AGING?
Absolutely! You can rest easy knowing that retinol is one of the most widely used and well-studied anti-aging ingredients on the market. Originally marketed as an anti-acne remedy in the 1970s, tretinoin quickly proved to be an effective anti-aging agent.
Retinoids work by causing superficial skin cells to turn over and die quickly to make room for new cell growth underneath. They inhibit the breakdown of collagen and thicken the deeper layer of skin where wrinkles begin.
RETINOL AUTOMATICALLY REQUIRES A "PURGE" PERIOD AND IS IRRITATING
That’s only partly true. The severe peeling, irritation and breakouts associated with retinoids are not necessary at all true. While you may experience mild flaking and mild breakouts (in acne-prone individuals) for the first two to four weeks after beginning using retinol, you can minimize most side effects by starting slow and gradual.
DOES IT REALLY HELP AGAINST WRINKLES?
Yes. Because retinoids work at the cellular level and not just the topical level like most skin care products, they are able to profoundly renew your skin, which can completely change your complexion over time. But it is important to know that a treatment with retinol doesn’t work in two to three weeks. Usually it is at least double that and more.
These are the most important questions you have sent to us in the last few weeks. If you still have unanswered questions, do not hesitate to contact us