Retinoids are a group of pharmacological substances that includes natural and chemically synthesized derivatives of vitamin A.
This group includes retinol, tazarotene, tretinoin, adapalene, acitretin and isotretinoin. Each of them has its own characteristics, but all of them can improve the condition of the skin. Their action is based on the ability to interact with retinoid receptors in the body’s cells.
As a result, they influence the proliferation of keratinocytes, epidermal differentiation and keratinization, i.e. cellular growth and differentiation of skin cells, as well as the regulation of inflammatory processes in the skin. In addition, retinoids inhibit growth-promoting signals and promote cell growth arrest and differentiation in precancerous and cancerous lesions. Let’s look at the features of retinoids separately.
Features
- Retinol is the most popular component in cosmetics. Helps reduce wrinkles and increase skin elasticity, it will help get rid of age spots.
- Trethionine is used in the treatment of acne and psoriasis. Tightens pores, helps reduce inflammation, reduce sebum production, and will quickly deal with acne marks.
- Adapalene is often used to treat acne and comedones. Helps prevent clogged pores, reduces inflammation and prevents new breakouts, and fights acne scarring.
- Acitretin and isotretinoinare used in the treatment of severe forms of acne and other skin diseases.
Application options
Retinoids are used in a variety of ways:
- External use in the form of creams, gels, lotions. Helps fight acne, improves skin quality, reduces wrinkles, lightens pigmentation.
- Ingestion of tablet forms and capsules. This is necessary for systemic action in severe forms of acne, psoriasis, rosacea and other dermatological diseases.
- Injections are used in cosmetology as part of cocktails for mesotherapy and biorevitalization, for skin rejuvenation and improvement of skin condition. Before using retinoids, you need to familiarize yourself with some of the features of their use.
What is especially important to know!
- During the period of using retinoids, the skin is very sensitive to solar radiation. Therefore, it is necessary to avoid direct sunlight to avoid sunburn and use sunscreen.
- Temporary deterioration of the skin condition in the form of exacerbation of acne, dryness, redness, peeling may occur at the beginning of treatment.
- It is necessary to use moisturizing care products. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage. Do not immediately use a large percentage of retinoids in creams, do not apply a large amount of cream. In the case of retinoids, the more the better rule does not work.
- It is undesirable to use retinoids and products with AHA acids and benzoyl peroxide at the same time. This may increase skin irritation.
- Always start with a low concentration of retinoids. And only when the skin gets used to it, you can increase the concentration.
- When using retinoids for the first time, start gradually with 1-2 times a week.
- Apply retinoid creams only at night.
- Do not use vitamin C products at the same time as retinoids. It is better to separate them for morning and evening care.
- It is better to apply to dry skin than to wet skin.
- To achieve visible lasting results, creams with retinoids must be used for a long time, up to 36 weeks.
