RETINOL and RETINAL
Retinol is a type of retinoid, which is made from vitamin A. It does not remove dead skin cells, as many other products for mature skin do. Instead, the small molecules that make up retinol go deep beneath the epidermis (outer layer of skin) to your dermis. Because it helps regulate skin cell turnover, it improves the appearance of both skin tone and skin texture. By regulating skin cell turnover and encouraging new skin cells to come to the surface, it helps to resurface the skin and give an overall improved appearance to the skin tone and reduce the appearance of discoloration.
Once in this middle layer of skin, retinol helps neutralize free radicals. This helps boost the production of elastin and collagen, which creates a “plumping” effect that can reduce the appearance of:
- fine lines
- wrinkles
- enlarged pores
Retinol is a powerhouse of an ingredient for a reason: it targets most of our top skin concerns. It’s added to topical skincare products to promote skin renewal, brighten skin tone, reduce acne, and boost the collagen production. While retinol is also sometimes used to help treat acne as well as related scarring, severe acne is usually treated via a prescription retinoid along with other medications that help target inflammation and bacteria.
Penetration: Retinol's small molecules travel deep into the skin, reaching the dermis.
Cellular Action: In the dermis, retinol binds to cell receptors and triggers the DNA in cells to produce more collagen and elastin, the proteins that give skin its youthful structure and elasticity.
Cell Turnover: It also speeds up the shedding of dead skin cells, which helps to unclog pores and reveal fresher, brighter skin underneath
Anti-Aging: Reduces fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of photoaging.
Acne Treatment: Clears breakouts by unclogging pores and regulating oil production.
Improved Skin Tone: Minimizes hyperpigmentation and evens out skin tone.
Smoother Texture: Reduces skin roughness and creates a smoother complexion.
Finally, retinol has an exfoliating effect on the skin’s surface that can help improve texture and tone.
