Contents
Anything is written about retinol and its derivatives on the Internet. However, it is clear that in the composition of cosmetics, these substances benefit both those who suffer from acne and those who are concerned about age-related skin changes.
What are retinoids
Retinol
Retinol esters: retinol acetate, retinol palmitate.
Retinaldehyde.
Retinoic acid.
The concentration of retinol in homemade creams for the prevention of aging is usually no more than 0,1%. In more serious medicinal preparations – from 0,4% to 1%.
Retinoids have proven themselves in anti-wrinkle and acne treatments.
Retinoid creams: effect on the skin
Retinoids normalize the process of epidermal renewal and slow down the work of the sebaceous glands, preventing the P. acnes bacteria, acne provocateurs, from multiplying. Cosmetic products and medications with retinoids are considered among the most effective against acne, because they:
stabilize the secretion of sebum;
speed up the exfoliation process;
lighten post-acne marks.
Retinoids have also proven to be effective as an anti-aging ingredient. By stimulating cell renewal, they reduce the area and number of wrinkles, and also trigger the synthesis of collagen and elastin, the production of which slows down with age.
Retinol creams are recommended to be used at night.
Are cosmetics with retinoids dangerous?
When choosing a cream with retinoids, pay attention to some nuances.
Unpleasant sensations
Side effects of retinoids include dryness, burning, and flaking. Do not be alarmed, this is a normal skin reaction to the acceleration of renewal processes. The hydrolipidic mantle of the skin is destroyed and needs to be restored. In this case, dense nourishing creams with oils will help.
The exception is oily skin, for which moisturizers with nourishing ingredients that do not clog pores are recommended.
Increased photosensitivity
If you use cosmetics with retinoids, be sure to apply sunscreen before going out. The rule applies not only to walking along the beach (in summer, by the way, it is better not to use such means), but also to moving around the city. And its non-compliance is fraught with the appearance of age spots.
Retinoids also have contraindications: skin hypersensitivity, pregnancy and lactation, a damaged lipid barrier or open wounds.
Cosmetics Review
Night intensive lifting care Revitalift, L’Oréal Paris
The formula with proretinol and fibroelastil stimulates the synthesis of elastin fibers, increasing the elasticity of the skin. Vitamin A is responsible for cell renewal, thereby lightening pigmentation (both age-related and post-acne) and smoothes wrinkles.
Highly effective night care cream with retinol Retinol 0.3, SkinCeuticals
Contains the highest concentration of retinol in the selection – 0,3%. In addition to it, the composition includes extracts of alfalfa and chamomile, soybean oil. The tool is recommended for the treatment of inflammation, lightening age spots and correcting signs of aging at different stages. It should be applied before bed. During the first week – 1 time in 3 days, then – every other day.