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Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that come in a variety of oral and topical medications. While some may be purchased over-the-counter, more powerful versions are available from your dermatologist or aesthetician. These powerful ingredients have been around since 1971, and have since been used to address a variety of skincare concerns, from photoaging to acne.

If you’re wondering how retinoids might benefit your own skin, read on to learn more. Schedule an appointment with DermApproach today to see if retinoids are the best options for your skin.

How Retinoids Benefit Your Skin

In a nutshell, retinoids help your skin cells by increasing their growth as well as the rate of turnover. Additionally, retinoids help unclog your pores and promote collagen growth. Such effects can help a variety of skin conditions, including:

  • Acne
  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Hyperpigmentation
  • Melasma
  • Psoriasis
  • Sun damage (photo-aging)

Retinoids are most common in topical form—these types of products are applied directly to your skin either at our office or in the comfort of your own home. Some conditions, such as plaque psoriasis, are best treated with oral retinoids taken by mouth.

 

Considerations and Precautions

Retinoids are extremely powerful, so you don’t want to use them without care. One of our skin care professionals will help you understand how to use them properly to minimize side effects.

Some of the most common side effects of retinoids include:

  • Dryness
  • Itchiness
  • Peeling skin
  • Redness
  • Inflammation

The above can be minimized by decreasing the application of retinoids. Depending on the severity, you might need to stop using these products altogether. Rarely, retinoids can cause more serious skin reactions, such as blistering, discoloration, and flare-ups.

Retinoids used for acne may make your skin more sensitive to the sun. To prevent burning and peeling, make sure you wear a sunscreen every day.

Pregnant women shouldn’t use retinoids due to possible fetal defects. It’s also recommended that you don’t breastfeed while using retinoids.

 

Retinoids: Just One Part of Your Skincare Plan

Retinoids can be lifesavers for treating aging and acne-prone skin. Still, we recommend that this vitamin A derivative are used with a comprehensive skin care plan that also includes other antioxidants, such as vitamin C.

At a minimum, you should also cleanse and moisturize twice daily with products tailored to your skin type, and you should wear sunscreen to protect your skin from further UV damage.

Severe acne may be treated with retinoids in conjunction with an antibiotic for a short amount of time.

 

Schedule an Appointment Today

For patients with certain skin diseases that aren’t improving with over-the-counter treatments, retinoids can provide a huge amount of relief with real results. If you’re ready to get started on a topical retinoid treatment, make an appointment with us today.

 

 

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