Retinol: How Do I Love Thee?

Retinol is one of my favorite skin care ingredients, ranking up there with a good UVA/UVB blocking sunscreen and a well formulated antioxidant preparation.

It belongs to a group of skin care actives known as retinoids, which are derived from Vitamin A. You may be familiar with retinoic acid, a prescription only ingredient that was first used to manage acne. In addition to controlling oil production, retinoic acid can also unclog pores, boost collagen production and hasten the speed at which healthy new skin cells form. Retinoic acid’s (and subsequently, retinol’s) anti-aging skin care benefits were discovered when mature women being treated for acne reported that their skin also exhibited fewer wrinkles and fine lines. Clinical studies confirmed that these changes weren’t just imagined, but real.

While retinol itself is not active at the cellular level, once applied to skin, it is converted to retinoic acid, the active form of Vitamin A. Since many individuals find that prescription strength Vitamin A is too irritating, retinol makes an excellent alternative.

Let me count the ways I love retinol:

• Increases skin cell turnover reducing pigmentation and resulting in a more even skin tone
• Unclogs pores leading to fewer blemishes. Pores also look smaller
• Stimulates collagen production leading to fewer wrinkles and fine lines

Results should be visible within a few weeks of starting treatment.

Retinol is light sensitive so look for formulations packaged appropriately to maintain its effectiveness. Our customers love Green Cream, which is available in a range of concentrations so that you can gradually adjust to its use. New La Roche Posay Redermic R boasts the addition of madecassoside to further boost collagen production.

Retinol should be avoided if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. And, it is best to gradually apply it so that your skin can adjust to its use. Read more about retinol here.