Retinol vs. Retinoid vs. Retin-A: The Ultimate Guide 

What are Retinol, Retinoid, and Retin-A? 

The history of retinol goes back to World War 1. Its importance was realised then as its deficiency started causing skin diseases like xerosis. The retinoid family consists of Vitamin A (Retinol) and natural derivatives, which include retinal and retin-A.

Retinol:

Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A. It improves collagen production and cellular turnover and reduces visible lines and wrinkles in your skin. It is used widely because it is more gentle on the skin and generally has fewer side effects.

Retinoid:

Retinoid is a broader category which includes all the derivatives of this group. It includes retinol, retinaldehyde, retinoic acid, Retin-A, and more. It can range from gentle ones to more potent prescription medicines. They also address issues like severe acne, uneven skin texture, hyperpigmentation, and ageing skin.

Retin-A:

Retin-A, or tretinoin, is a more potent prescription medicine prescribed by dermatologists only. It is also used for severe acne, improving skin texture, and slowing skin ageing. It is said to show better results.

How Each Works for Skin Care 

Each of the retinoids is very effective in addressing your skin concerns. However, the time required for results, side effects, and potency can differ. Here is a list of the benefits of each of these:

Retinol’s Benefits and Uses 

Retinol is produced naturally in your body. When applied topically, it undergoes a two-step conversion regime. First, it is converted to retinaldehyde and then into retinoic acid. This process takes time to show results, but the side effects are lower. Due to its slow action, it is recommended to use retinol consistently for a few months for visible results.

Benefits:

• It reduces fine lines and wrinkles.
• It stimulates collagen production.
• It improves your overall skin texture.
• It treats hyperpigmentation
• It is perfect for you if you are a beginner, as it is gentle, has fewer side effects, and gives your skin the necessary time to adjust.

Retinoid Products and Their Applications

Retinoids include retin—and retinol, along with other derivatives. Retinoid is an umbrella term. All retinoids except retinoic acid have to be converted so that they can be absorbed by your skin.

Some derivatives of retinoids are:

a) Adapalene:

It is used for severe acne and as a second line of treatment for ageing, especially if you have extreme intolerance for conventional retinoids.

b) Tazarotene:

It is significantly useful for psoriasis, hyperpigmentation and severe acne.

c) Isotretinoin:

It is an oral retinoid for severe cystic acne.

Retin-A: Prescription Use and Benefits

Retin-A is a prescription cream which has tretinoin. It is also known as retinoic acid. It doesn’t need to be broken down by your skin, it can be readily absorbed. Due to this it is the most potent among all the retinoids.

Its benefits are:

• It treats persistent acne.
• It minimises deep wrinkles and fine lines
• It reduces acne scars and hyperpigmentation.
• It improves your overall skin tone.

Comparing Effectiveness and Side Effects

Due to the numerous options available, it can be confusing to choose a retinoid. But don’t worry, here are some points which can help you make this choice:

How to Choose Based on Skin Type

a) Sensitive Skin: If you have a sensitive skin most of the retinoids can irritate your skin. Start with a low strength retinoid and if your skin adapts then only increase the strength.

b) Oily or Acne-prone Skin:  Retinoids like adapalene or tretinoin are more suitable for oily skin.

c) Mature skin: Retinoids are more potent and can help in tackling ageing skin issues like fine lines and deep wrinkles.

Potential Side Effects and Safety Tips

While retinoids are a very potent compound for your skin, it also has side effects. Below are some side effects and how you can prevent them.

a) Potential Side Effects:

• Skin redness and burning
• Flaky skin and peeling of skin
• Sensitivity to sunlight

b) Safety Tips:

• Use a pea-sized amount only.
• Initially, start applying 1-2 days per week, with gaps in between, and slowly increase the frequency.
• Always use sunscreen and a scarf
• You can also employ the sandwich method to decrease side effects. It involves applying a moisturiser, then retinol, and a layer of moisturiser again.

Incorporating Retinol, Retinoids, or Retin-A into Your Routine

Adding retinol in your routine can seem tricky but here’s a guide on how you can do this smoothly.

Follow the below steps:

1. Cleanse: Cleanse your face thoroughly with a gentle cleanser.

2. Apply Retinol/Retinoid: Apply retinol/retinoid on completely dry skin.

3. Moisturiser: Apply a hydrating moisturiser after the retinol has set in.

4. Sun Protection: Use a sunscreen of at least SPF 30 to prevent damage as retinoids increase sun sensitivity.

Best Skin Care Practices

• Avoid using ingredients like AHA, BHA, and benzoyl peroxide at the beginning with retinoids, as they can irritate your skin.
• Slowly increase the frequency and dose, giving your skin time to adapt.
• Apply this at night because it can damage your skin if used during the day.
• Use hydrating moisturisers when using retinoids, as it can cause skin dryness.

Wrapping Up!

Retinols are very effective in correcting skin issues and can be an excellent addition to your skin care routine. However, choosing the correct retinol according to your age, skin concerns and skin type is crucial. Along with this , proper methods and do's and don'ts should be followed. Adding retinol in your skincare can give you flawless skin if used correctly. If you want to know more about skincare and which products can be beneficial for you, you can connect with our Nirva health experts.