What Is Retinol?
"Skin Care Retinol"
Wondering what is retinol? You probably have heard of retinol before but are unsure in what way it can be beneficial for the skin. Maybe you are confused between the different types of retinoid acids and retinol. Retinol is an active form of
vitamin a
. Retinoids are also an active form of vitamin a. The most effective type of retinoid to treat skin conditions is
tretinoin
and the most well known tretinoin creams are Retin A and Renova which are available only by prescription.
Retinol effects in the skin are less irritant than those of retinoids. The effects of retinol in the skin depend on its concentration. There are many retinol products on the market, but if the concentration of retinol is low, it won’t have any effect in the skin and if the concentration is too high it could irritate the skin. The following retinol product
AFIRM 2X
contains 3% retinol but is gentle with the skin due to its advance delivery system. Clears and rejuvenates the skin. Good reviews.
What is retinol and possible side effects
Retinol exfoliates the skin constantly, and helps with collagen production, improving the skin’s appearance. A recent study by the university of Michigan revealed that retinol is one of the most effective
skin care ingredients
in improving
aging skin
. The study was made among thirty six people with an average age of eighty seven. The study consisted in applying a retinol solution of 0,4 percent in the internal part of one arm and a control lotion with no retinol to the other arm. The lotions were applied three times per week during six months. When the study finalized the differences between the two arms were obvious. In the arm in which retinol lotion was applied the skin appeared smoother and wrinkles were significantly reduced.
Retinol can have some side effects such as- skin redness
- skin peeling
- itchy skin
- stinging feeling
- skin scaling
- increased sensitive to light
Most of these retinol side effects are normal and will disappear once the skin get used to the product. If the symptoms persist consult your doctor or dermatologist.
Retinol products are used, at least twice a week in face, neck, cleavage, hands and body avoiding the areas where the skin is thinner such as around the eye area and lips. These products are best used at night during cell renewal . They can be used during the day as well, but is imperative the use of
sunscreen
with a minimum SPF 15. It is recommended to stay out of the sun when using retinol products. Always follow the manufacture’s instructions and consult with your doctor if you have any doubt. Pregnant women shouldn’t use retinol products unless recommended by their doctor.
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