Retinol: the substance to prevent aging requires care

Know the risks of retinol and what precautions are necessary to use this substance against skin aging

Looking for beauty products that prevent against aging grown a lot. And one of the assets that has become more popular with this high demand has been retinol. But do you know what this substance is for?

According to the specialist in dermatocosmetics, Ludmila Bonelli, “some of the more specific functions of retinol are cell regeneration, exfoliation and collagen synthesis. But it also plays an important role in the control of greasiness and acne and in reducing hyperpigmentation “.

In turn, retinol also eliminates dead cells, promotes an improvement in texture, smoothes dilated pores, reduces wrinkles and allows for more effective penetration of the other active ingredients. Just good stuff, right? Not all, as this product can also carry risks and require some care.

Risks of Retinol

First, it is worth mentioning that the retinoic acid and retinol are not the same. In other words, they have different risks. “While retinoic acid is an active metabolite in the skin, retinol must be converted by our skin into retinoic acid to work. The effect of retinoic acid is “stronger”, more “effective” than retinol. However, the side effects (redness, skin thinning and capillary fragility) are less with the use of retinol (compared to retinoic acid) “, explains Paola Pomerantzeff, dermatologist and member of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology.

And that’s why retinoic acid needs a prescription from a dermatologist, while retinol is sold in pharmacies without a prescription.

Necessary care

Since retinol is a photosensitive active, you cannot leave photoprotection aside. But there are still other beginnings: “The ideal would be to use a vitamin C and SPF 30 sunscreen at least, every day, in the morning,” explains Dr. Paola. Also, this product should preferably be used at night.

Another caution regarding retinol is that it should not be used in pregnant and lactating women, in sugar-glycated skin and in individuals excessively exposed to the sun. Just as it deserves attention when using it on reactive and sensitive skin.

According to the dermatologist, a tip for people with very dry or sensitive skin who want to use it is to apply a moisturizer with ceramides or hyaluronic acid before the cream with retinol. “This moisturizer will cause less retinol to penetrate and, therefore, there will be fewer side effects. Another tip is to apply a small amount of product on the face and let it act for 1 hour. Starting every other day and increasing the frequency as well. good, “he says.

What is the best retinol product for you?

In addition to these precautions, it is necessary to pay attention to the different types of products with retinol on the market. This is because each of them may be better for one skin type. There are, for example, i products in serum, gel or cream.

“While the serum and gel are ideal for oily skin, the cream is best for mature, dry skin,” says Dr. Paola. Finally, the product should not be used together with acids, as they can sensitize the skin.

Source: Dr. Paola Pomerantzeff, dermatologist and member of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology (SBD) and of the Brazilian Society of Dermatological Surgery (SBCD); and Ludmila Bonelli, specialist in cosmetics and dermatocosmetics.

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Source: Terra

Benjamin

Benjamin Smith is a fashion journalist and author at Gossipify, known for his coverage of the latest fashion trends and industry insights. He writes about clothing, shoes, accessories, and runway shows, providing in-depth analysis and unique perspectives. He’s respected for his ability to spot emerging designers and trends, and for providing practical fashion advice to readers.