Why you should use over the counter retinol! Differences/effectiveness of Retinyl Palimate, Retinol & Retinal.
Retinoids–We’ve all heard of the miracle worker before. This vitamin A derivatives have been proven to boost collagen production which reduces wrinkles and preventing fine lines. It can also address discoloration. Retinoids can brighten the skin tone and unclog pores (making them look smaller and reducing acne) (Pikul par. 1).
Generally speaking, prescription retinoids are stronger and work faster than over-the-counter options. “Retin-A is the purest form of vitamin A, and it’s only made in a lab. This prescription-only retinoid is tretinoin (trans-retinoic acid). Because Retin-A is the strongest and most potent version of vitamin A, it can be irritating for some patients,
especially when it’s not applied as directed” For this reason, we are not suggesting to use products that anything but over the counter.
The upside to OTC retinoids is that you’re going to wind up with a product that’s gentler on your skin. “Over-the-counter retinoids are often combined with other ingredients like moisturizers that make the product less drying and less likely to cause redness. This makes them better for the average consumer who may not realize how potent [retinoids] can be. Over time, these products can help even out skin tone and brighten the complexion” (Sinrich par. 14).
There are various types of retinoid products that range in strength from weakest to strongest. Retinyl palmitate is the weakest formulation. Retinaldehyde is next (or retinal, vitamin A aldehyde), followed by most retinol . The list continues with Tretinoin, then Tazarotene, and finally Isotretinoin (the strongest one that is usually reserved for severe cases of acne). Retinyl palmitate, retinaldehyde, and most retinol are available over-the-counter (OTC), making them ideal for most Bellagena clientele.
As UW Health Transformations Jeune Skin Care cite suggests, things can get quite confusing when determining which type of retinoid to use. “Factors such as product formulation, gel-based or cream-based and natural versus synthetic retinoids all play a factor in retinoid strength. Deciding which type to use often comes down to what your skin can safely tolerate”
Here is something the aestheticians ask you to keep in mind:
● Gels tend to be stronger than creams because they enhance penetration whereas the oils in cream bases act as slight buffers.
● Retinoids with an alcohol-based gel are stronger than water-based gels, which in turn are stronger than cream-based ones.
● Usually, gel-based retinoids are a preferred choice for those who have acne.
● Cream-based retinoids are best suited for more mature, oil-dry skin types, aiding in skin rejuvenation.
● Synthetic retinoids tend to be less irritating to the skin as they do not target all of the retinoic acid responders. For some people, natural retinoids may not be strong enough, even though they do target ALL retinoic acid responders.
Retinoid products are widely available to aid in clearing acne and help with skin rejuvenation. For life-changing results, talk to your esthetician at Bellagena Spa for a list of products that can help with your retinoid needs. If acne is your problem, Face Reality Acne Clinic also offers a line of products, such as cleansers, scrubs, toners, and serums, that can solve your acne problem. Bellagena Spa also offers a Face Reality Acne Program, that includes a consultation and treatment for when OTC retinoids aren’t working for you.
Credit
Pikul, Corrie. “The One Thing Dermatologists Agree On (Other Than Sunscreen).” Oprah.com, www.oprah.com/health/benefits-of-retinoids-retinol-for-anti-aging.
“Retinoids: Defining the Difference.” UW Health, www.uwhealth.org/madison-plastic-surgery/retinoids-defining-the-difference/45281.
