What are retinoids and when to include retinoids in your skincare?

Want to include retinoids in your skincare? Then you are in the right place. Here we are gonna discuss all about retinoids. Retinoids are used to treat fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation and most importantly retinoids are used to treat acne. This is derived from vitamin A. It helps in increasing the production of collagen. Some of the ingredients under the retinoid include retinol, adapalene, retinoic acid. When retinol is applied to the skin it gets converted to retinal which is more potent and then retinal gets converted into retinoic acid which is the most potent of retinoids.

                                           Retinol–>Retinal–>Retinoic acid

Retinoids has anti-aging benefits, it reduces fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation. It boosts collagen production, repair tissue.   

1. Retinol is mild and gentler. It is available over the counter.
2. Adapalene is a topical retinoid which is great for acne prone skin and sensitive skin. This is less irritating to the skin as compared to retinoic acid or tretinoin. Adapalene is now available over the counter.
3. Retinoic acid also known as tretinoin or retin-A , which is prescription medication. It is very effective on the skin for acne, fine lines, wrinkles.

When can you include retinoids in your skincare?

Well, if you are under 25 then there is no need to use retinol except if you have acne and your dermatologist suggests retinol. Our skin produces less collagen as we age. So, after 25 you can include retinol in your skincare routine. Retinoids should be used at night time. Retinoic acid is prescribed by dermatologist. So use it as directed.

How to use retinoids?

Retinoids should be used on dry skin. Use it on a dry skin and follow it with a thick moisturizer. You should use retinoids at night time only. Retinol makes your skin photo sensitive, so it is important to use sunscreen in daytime.

If you are just starting with retinoids then start slow. Use it twice or thrice a week for two to three months then use it daily. Retinoids make your skin dry so always use a moisturizer.

When can you see results?

Retinoids help with wrinkles, fine lines, acne, hyperpigmentation. You should use it for 6-12 months then only you can see results. Concerned about pre mature aging? Read this blog : https://demystiifyingbeauty.com/anti-aging-skincare-tips-for-your-20s/