If you are someone who cares about your skin and looks beautiful, you must have heard the name 'Retinol' all the time. It is talked about everywhere on social media, in beauty products. You must have heard that it is great for acne, to stop wrinkles, and to maintain a youthful appearance. So what exactly is Retinol? What does it do to our skin? How should we use it? Let's talk about all this in detail and simply today.
Simply put, what is Retinol?
Retinol is a form of vitamin A. It's a topical medication that we put on the skin. That means it's not something you drink, it's something you apply to the skin. You can find these in a variety of products.
- Creams
- Gels
- Lotions
- Ointments
- Serums
Retinol is a substance that speeds up skin cell production. Specifically, it helps our skin shed old, dead cells faster, allowing new, healthy cells to emerge. It also prevents pores from becoming clogged.
More importantly, Retinol increases the production of collagen in our skin. Collagen is a protein that keeps our skin looking youthful and supple. As we age, this collagen decreases, which is why our skin wrinkles. Retinol increases collagen, which reduces fine lines and wrinkles, giving our skin a fresh, plump appearance .
What are the types of Retinol and what is their difference?
Although the name Retinol is commonly used, there are different types and strengths of these. It is very important for you to know this difference.
| Type | Description | How to get it |
|---|---|---|
| Retinol | A mild form of vitamin A. It takes some time for the skin to get used to it. It may take several months for results to appear. | They can often be purchased over-the-counter from pharmacies or as cosmetic products. |
| Retinoids (e.g. Tretinoin, Adapalene) | These are much more powerful than Retinol. They work at the cellular level and provide faster results. They are also more likely to cause side effects. | These should only be obtained with a doctor's prescription . A dermatologist is the one who prescribes them. |
The most important thing is to choose what works best for your skin type. Therefore, it's wise to talk to your doctor before using retinol.
Main skin conditions treated with retinol
Retinol is not just a weapon that kills two birds with one stone, it's a weapon that can kill many. That means it has solutions for several skin problems.
Acne and Acne Scars
Retinol helps to prevent the accumulation of dead skin cells and oil in the pores of the skin. This reduces the occurrence of acne such as whiteheads and blackheads. However, keep in mind that acne may increase slightly in the first few weeks of use. This is called a "Retinol Purge". This means that the dirt under the skin comes out. But with continued use, the skin gradually becomes clearer.
Retinol can also help reduce the red and brown spots that remain after acne has healed. However, it doesn't have much effect on severe scars that are sunken into the skin or have spread to the surface.
Dark spots and wrinkles on the skin
Retinol can help reduce hyperpigmentation caused by sun exposure. And, as we discussed earlier, it also helps control fine lines and wrinkles that occur with age by increasing collagen production and maintaining skin elasticity.
Other skin diseases
- Psoriasis: Retinol controls the rapid growth of skin cells in this condition. However, a doctor may recommend Retinol in combination with other medications.
- Stretch Marks: Retinol helps reduce the appearance of these scars caused by skin stretching during periods such as weight gain and pregnancy.
- Melasma: Retinol (especially Tretinoin) is also used to reduce large brown spots on the face that occur due to hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy.
How to use Retinol safely?
Because retinol is so powerful, it's important to use it properly. Using it incorrectly can even damage your skin.
1. Do a Patch Test: Before using for the first time, apply a small amount to a small area, like behind the ear, and wait for a couple of days. Only start using it on your face if your skin becomes very red or itchy.
2. Start slowly: Don't start using it every day. For the first two to three weeks, use it every other day. Once your skin gets used to it, you can use it every night.
3. Use at night only: Retinol makes your skin very photosensitive to sunlight, so always apply it at night only .
4. Cleanse gently: When washing your face, use a gentle cleanser. Do not rub too hard. Apply Retinol after washing and drying your face thoroughly (after 20-30 minutes).
5. A little is enough: A pea-sized amount is enough for the entire face. Applying too much will not give you quick results, and will only increase skin irritation .
6. A moisturizer is a must: Apply a good moisturizer a few minutes after applying retinol. This will reduce skin dryness and irritation . Choose a moisturizer that is non-comedogenic.
7. Make sunscreen a part of your lifestyle: When using retinol, it is essential to apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day. Otherwise, the skin will be more susceptible to sun damage.
Side effects and how to deal with them
It's normal to experience some side effects when you first start using retinol, but they will lessen over time.
| Common side effects | How to manage? |
|---|---|
| Dryness, redness, and inflammation/itching of the skin | Use every other day. Use a good moisturizer. |
| Skin peeling | This is normal. It happens as the skin renews itself. Don't rub it hard to remove the peeling. Use a moisturizer. |
| Sunburn | Be sure to use SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day. Avoid the sun between 10am and 4pm as much as possible. |
Is Retinol suitable for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers?
This is a very important point: If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding, you should completely avoid using Retinol or Retinoids (especially oral types).
These can cause serious birth defects in the unborn baby. Although the amount absorbed into the bloodstream is low when applied to the skin, it is not worth taking the risk. Therefore, consult your doctor for other safe treatments for skin problems during this time.
Take-Home Message
- Retinol is a powerful substance derived from vitamin A that treats acne and wrinkles.
- If you are starting to use it, start slowly. Use it every other day, at night only.
- It may take several months to see results. Be patient.
- While using retinol, it is essential to use sunscreen every day.
- If severe skin irritation or an unusual reaction occurs, discontinue use immediately and consult your doctor.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should completely avoid using Retinol.
- It is best to seek medical advice before starting any skin care regimen, especially if you have a skin condition.
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