Retinoic Acid
Retinol is all the rage in skincare, plus rightfully so because it has earned its place in the skincare world. In addition, Retinol is a multi-functioning skincare ingredient that does more than reduce the looks of wrinkles and treat acne. You may have heard about Retinol, but do you know there are other versions of this ingredient? Retinol is a milder version and thus suitable for most skin types; that is why it is more common in the skincare world.
Retinoic Acid Is A Derivative Of Vitamin A
What is Vitamin A? And how do we get Retinol from Vitamin A?
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that naturally occurs in many foods. Also, Vitamin A has two forms (retinol and retinyl esters) and provitamin A carotenoids as beta-carotene. In addition, Vitamin A is responsible for good vision, growth, cell division, reproduction, and immunity. Also, it has antioxidant properties that protect the cells against the effects of free radicals, thus a potent skincare ingredient in treating wrinkles.
Vitamin A Foods To Add To Your Diet
You may add these foods to your diet to benefit from Vitamin A; Carrots, Broccoli, Sweet potatoes, Liver, Spinach, Eggs, Cantaloupe, Bell peppers, Mango, Tomatoes, Avocado, Orange, Butternut squash, Yogurt, and Leafy greens.
What Are The Different Types Of Retinol?
We have all heard of Retinol, but do you know there are four types of Retinol? Vitamin A is also called Retinoid, but there are different types of Retinoids and their work for the skin. The order goes this way –
Retinoic acid
Retinaldehyde
Retinol
Retinol esters
These show the ingredients from the strongest to the mildest.
Retinoic acid: A nutrient the body needs in small amounts for function and staying healthy. The body makes it from Vitamin A, which helps the cells grow. Retinoic is all-trans-retinol, and you need a prescription to get products with retinoic acid. Also, this ingredient is the strongest of the retinoids, and you can treat severe acne and deep wrinkles with retinoic acid. One of the most common products is Tretinoin.
Retinaldehyde: Retinaldehyde, also known as retinal on most skincare labels, is a potent form of Retinol that you can buy over the counter. This type of Vitamin A helps to repair connective tissues in the skin, boosts collagen synthesis for anti-aging benefits, and increases elasticity. In addition, retinaldehyde is Retinoid up to 20 times more potent than Retinol due to its closer proximity to retinoic acid. The top retinaldehyde you can buy over the counter is The Ordinary’s Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion.
Retinol: Retinol is a mild version of retinoids. I recommend it for most skin types; also, especially if it is your first time trying this ingredient, it is advisable to test with Retinol before moving up to the other potent strengthens. Also, Retinol may take a little longer to work on your skin, but it delivers incredible results.
Retinyl esters: This ingredient is the mildest form of the Retinoid; it needs to convert three times before it turns into retinoic acid so the body can use it. Also, this form is best for people with sensitive skin because it is less irritating.
What Does Retinoic Acid Do For Your Skin?
They encourage skin cell turnover.
Also, they reverse signs of aging (wrinkles and fine lines).
In addition, they reduce pore sizes.
Also, they give a radiant tone to the skin.
Retinol smooths the skin texture.
They treat acne.
They fade acne scars and hyperpigmentation.
Finally, they exfoliate the skin.
Retinol is one of the skincare ingredients I recommend for my clients. Use it early (in your 20’s) in your skincare routine to help maintain youthful, firm, and clear skin.
