Vitamin A: Retinoids
by Skincare-news.com team
What is it? Derivatives of vitamin A, retinoids are found in a bevy of products and treat many skincare concerns and conditions, including acne, wrinkles, sun spots, warts, wounds, psoriasis, cancers such as cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, follicular disorders, lichen planus and disorders of keratinization, according to iVillage. But despite their popularity, retinoids are potent ingredients and should be taken with utmost care.
Specifically, as an effective acne treatment, retinoids slow the growth of cells inside the hair follicles, preventing these cells from clogging pores, which can contribute to acne. Retinoids also boast anti-inflammatory effects.
Plus, topical retinoid treatments have many anti-aging benefits. Among them, retinoids improve sun spots and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In fact, dermatologist Leslie Baumann, M.D., tells Prevention magazine, “I can tell from across the room if someone is using a prescription retinoid–they’re that effective; skin is brighter, softer, smoother and more evenly toned.”
You’ll find it in: A physician must prescribe both oral and topical retinoids. An acne treatment since the 1970’s, tretinoin — a topical retinoid whose brand names include Avita, Renova, Retin-A, Retin-A Micro and Vesanoid — also improves wrinkles and sun spots. Same goes for adapalene or Differin, which focuses on acne in addition to rejuvenating and revitalizing the skin — like the above retinoids. According to Prevention, Differin is also better for sensitive skin.
Another acne treatment, tazarotene (Tazorec or Avage) alleviates psoriasis as well. Bexarotene (Targretin) treats cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, and alitretinoin (Panretin) treats Kaposi’s sarcoma.
Oral retinoids treat more severe conditions. For instance, acitretin (Soriatane) and etretinate (Tegison) are prescribed for treating severe psoriasis. Isotretinoin or Accutane treats severe acne.
Our product picks: A topical retinoid available without a prescription is all-trans retinol, which reduces acne, softens wrinkles, firms the skin and counteracts sun spots. All-trans retinol is basically a weaker form of tretinoin, and it’s present in a variety of skincare products, such as Jan Marini Factor A Lotion. Other retinol products for evening out skin tone and texture include SkinMedica TNS Recovery Complex Best Results Kit and M.D. Forte Skin Rejuvenation Eye Cream. In addition, these solutions restore elasticity and resiliency for all-around clearer, younger-looking skin.
What to expect: As long as you use your retinoid treatment properly and consistently, optimal results are likely with clear and rejuvenated skin. When beginning your treatment, Yahoo Health notes you might notice your skin getting worse, along with redness and peeling. Talk to your doctor about what to expect, so you get the best results. Also, according to Prevention, your skin will get accustomed to retinoids after four to six months, so the magazine suggests making sure you don’t have any special engagements just around the corner.
Also, wait on the waxing, because retinoids can dry your skin, making it too sensitive. And slather on the sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher), as retinoids make you more vulnerable to sunlight.
Aside from redness and irritation, some retinoids have more serious side effects, especially the oral retinoids. Talk to your doctor about these side effects, which can include severe drying of the mouth, eyes and skin, an increase in sun sensitivity, issues with thyroid function, swelling of the arms, hands, feet and legs, muscle tightening, joint pain and a decrease in good cholesterol with an increase in the bad cholesterol, according to iVillage. If any of these side effects persist, contact your doctor.
Who should avoid it: Pregnant women, women who plan to become pregnant, or women who are nursing need to avoid retinoids altogether, because of the danger of severe birth defects. Note that this means the father can’t be using retinoids during conception either. And remember, your dermatologist will prescribe an oral or topical retinoid based on your needs. If you’re unsure about using an over-the-counter retinol product, also consult your doctor.