Retinol, a form of Vitamin A, is a powerful anti-aging ingredient found in many skin care products such as skin creams, lotions, and serums. It is the ultimate wonder in the realm of skincare as it is used to treat a wide range of common skin issues, such as fine lines, wrinkles, acne, dullness, and large pores. However, this ingredient is also surrounded by many misconceptions, which prevents people from enjoying the wonderful benefits of Retinol. In this blog, we will discuss questions that are commonly asked by most people and provide you with the correct information backed by expert dermatologists.
Retinol Vs. Retinoids Vs. Retinoic Acid: What Is The Difference Between Them?
Retinol, Retinoids, and Retinoic Acid are often used interchangeably; however, they are not the same ingredient.
- Retinoids:
“Retinoids” is the term used for all derivatives of vitamin A. They work by boosting collagen production and increasing the rate of skin cell turnover. They help improve skin texture, minimize fine lines and wrinkles, even out the skin tone, decrease pore size, and make your skin glow.
Over-the-counter retinoids are not nearly as strong as retinoids prescribed by a dermatologist. So, if you have acne-prone skin or oily skin, consult your dermatologist to start with prescription retinoids right away.
- Retinol:
Retinol is a form of Vitamin A and is easily available over the counter. It contains a lower concentration of the retinoid, which means its effect might not be as amazing as a prescription version. It is often mixed with moisturizing agents to reduce skin irritation, lowering the levels of active ingredients in these products and making them less effective.
- Retinoic Acid:
When you use over-the-counter retinol, it is converted into retinoic acid by your skin at a cellular level. This conversion is essential for over-the-counter retinol to become active, making it a bit slow to show its effects.
However, retinoids and retinoic acid don’t undergo this conversion process, which means they start working as soon as you apply them to your skin.
When To Use Retinol – In The Morning Or At Night?
Expert dermatologists recommend retinol or vitamin A at night because sunlight can deactivate retinoids or retinol. Besides, one should also use sunscreen that’s SPF is 30 or higher. Using a hat with a wide brim can add another layer of protection, especially during the summer when you are outside at the beach or a market.
How should I use Retinol?
At night, wash your face properly. After half an hour, apply a pea-sized amount of retinol or retinoid. Initially, start using retinol three times a week (for instance Monday, Wednesday, and Friday) as you may experience some dryness and peeling for some time. If there is no dryness or as you start to tolerate it better, you can use retinol every night.
Can I use Retinol and Vitamin C together?
No, you should not. The combination of Retinol and Vitamin C doesn’t go well together. Retinol helps build collagen, shrink pores, and improve skin texture. It works better at night. On the other hand, vitamin C helps treat hyperpigmentation and protect the skin against free radical damage and works best in the morning. So, both ingredients serve different purposes and should be used separately.
How Much Time Does It Take To See Results When Using Retinol?
Undoubtedly, retinol is a potent ingredient that brings multiple benefits to your skin. Once you start using retinol, you will notice an improvement in your skin texture, acne breakouts, fine lines, and wrinkles. In general, it might take about 12 weeks to see more significant changes in skin texture, fine lines and wrinkle reduction, improved pigmentation, and reduced pore size.
Do you have more queries on Retinol Skin Care usage? At Sunshine Cosmetic Clinic and Medi Spa, we have a team of fully-trained, experienced, and certified medical doctors and aestheticians to provide you with the best skin care advice and treatment approved by Health Canada. We are an award-winning and top-rated medical spa and cosmetic clinic in Waterloo, Kitchener. To get the best advice on anti-aging treatments, contact us today.
