If you’re concerned about keeping skin looking young and healthy as you age, then there are a number of things that are important:

1. Apply a broad spectrum UVA and UVB blocking sunscreen every day, year round
2. Make diligent use of antioxidants like Vitamin C to fight against free radical damage generated by sun exposure and pollution
3. Exfoliate regularly with alpha hydroxy acids to remove dead skin and stimulate collagen production
4. Incorporate a retinoid into your skin care regimen.

What are Retinoids?

Retinoids are derivatives of the Vitamin A molecule. Traditionally used to treat acne, it’s widely recognized that they offer other skin benefits as well.

Retinoids are available by prescription or without. The prescription options are found in products such as Retin A, Tazorac and Avage. Extremely effective, many individuals find them too irritating and are unable to use them. If this is the case, then a non-prescription option, as found in retinol, makes a suitable alternative. While retinol must be broken down into retinoic acid in order to exert its action on skin cells, at suitable concentrations, studies have shown that users do see significant benefit to their skin.

Retinol Benefits

Retinols work by increasing the production of collagen, the skin’s supporting network. In addition, hyaluronic acid production is stimulated. Hyaluronic acid is an ingredient that helps to keep skin hydrated. Cells are encouraged to ‘talk to’ one another and behave normally, something that is often disrupted as we age. In addition, there is an increase in cell turnover (new cell production) in the skin’s dermis. The results of this optimal communication results in several benefits:

The appearance of wrinkles and fine lines diminish
Skin is tightened
Skin looks smoother and glows
Diminishes the appearance of pores and also helps to cleanse them, helping to eliminate blemishes
Skin tone is evened out
Discolorations are lightened.

Retinol is also an antioxidant, which results in its ability to fight against free radicals which lead to skin damage.

Retinols Must Be Packaged Appropriately

Retinol is sensitive to air and light which makes the way its packaged very important. This helps to keep the product working from the moment you open it until it’s all gone. Airless pumps can help to protect the integrity of the finished product.

In addition to the way retinol is packaged, it must be used in appreciable concentration. Products that don’t reveal the concentration of retinol might possibly not contain enough to have any significant benefit to skin.

How To Use Retinol

Retinol is an active skin care ingredient so if you have never used it before or if you have sensitive skin, then you should perform a patch test and wait at least a day to see if experience any reaction.

If you tolerate it well, then introduce it gradually starting with the lowest concentration until your skin tolerates it. It’s generally recommended that you apply it only once weekly for the first few weeks, increasing to every other day for a month until you can finally try using it nightly.

Retinol Side Effects

Because of the way that they work, retinols can irritate skin at the outset. This is quite normal and most skin will adjust to treatment and see benefit.

Skin may burn or sting during initial use. Redness or mild rashes may also be apparent. Flaking occurs as old, damaged skin cells are she and newer ones fill their place.

Retinol does make skin more sensitive to sunlight so it’s very important to cover up with a well formulated sunscreen every day.

Retinols should never be used during pregnancy or while nursing as they can potentially be harmful.