Retinoids, what are they?

Retinoids, what are they?

In the skincare world we hear a lot about Retinol, Retin-A and Retinoids. What are these ingredients and what do they do for your skin?

Retinols and Retin-A’s are Retinoids. Meaning they are in the same family of ingredients. Think of Retinoids as a family’s last name and Retin-A and Retinol would be the name of the family’s children. They all contain the same DNA, they just produce differently in skin. 

Retinoids is a Retinoic acid, which is Vitamin A.

• Gold standard ingredient for anti-aging and acne products
• It is an extremely effective cell- communicating ingredient that has ability to connect to any cell receptor in the skin allowing it to function like healthier younger skin cells.
• It also functions like an antioxidant that can interrupt the free-radical damage process that causes signs of aging.
• Increases collagen and elastin production
• Helps fade hyperpigmentation
• They help with the creation of glycosaminoglycans, substances found in the body that help keep tissues hydrated.
• Retinoids help clear dead skin cells, oil, and debris from pores.
• Decrease oil production
• Produces firmer, smoother and more even toned skin with continued use.
• Encourages cell turnover rate of the skin
• Allows for other products to work better on the skin.

What is a Retin-A?

• Retin-A is the same as a Retinoid, doing the same job as what is listed below.
• Retin-A is a medical grade retinoid.
• This is a prescription strength.

What is a Retinol?

• Retinol does the same jobs as a Retinoid.
• The difference is that the Retinoid ingredient can be a lower concentration. With a lower concentration of a Retinoid, the skins enzymes must convert the Retinoid into Retinoic Acid to be able to penetrate the skin. With the conversion it may take longer to see results.

What are the side effects of using a Retinoid?

Retinoids are common to cause irritation to the skin. Meaning it can cause;

• Flaking
• Peeling
• Redness

This sensitivity may be caused by the lack of “retinoid receptors” in our bodies. Retinoid receptors are naturally occurring in our skin’s proteins. They act like shuttles to carry and release Retinoids in the skin cells triggering collagen and elastin production. With continuous use of a Retinoid, the retinoid receptors will expand, and your skin will get use to the Retinoid. 

How to use a Retinoid:

• Use your Retinoid in the evening time, it can cause photosensitivity
• Typically, they recommended for you to start out using it one night a week, after two weeks use it two nights a week. After the first 4-6 weeks you can be using your Retinoid 3- 4 nights a week.
• Talk with your esthetician for their advice on what they believe your skin can tolerate.
• Ask your esthetician where in your evening skincare routine a Retinoid will fit.

Retinoid Products we carry at Northwest Aesthetics:

• SkinMedica Retinol Complex
• Sente Intensive Bio Complete Cream
• Sente Bio Complete Serum

Retinoids are a chemical class used in lots of skincare products. Retinoids are most common in anti-aging and anti- acne products.  Call Northwest Aesthetics to talk to your esthetician to see what strength Retinoid will be most beneficial for your skin!