Retinol is simply another name for vitamin A. Retinol is a trusted treatment for acne but it’s also known for its anti aging properties. It has a wide range of what it can do and conditions it can assist with but there also several myths behind Retinol.
How it Works?
When Retinol and other retinoids come into contact with skin the enzymes in the body convert it into retinoic acid. Retinoic acid then works to increase cell turnover which stimulates collagen and elastin production. Because of all healthy skin cell turnover retinol can treat and prevent multiple skin conditions from acne and eczema to dark spots and wrinkles.
Myth: Retinol Exfoliates
False. A common error, retinol is not an exfoliant it’s an antioxidant working as an ingredient to restore the skin. Retinol makes skin smoother and healthier. Retinol can cause the skin to flake which is why there is the common misconception of it being a exfoliant, however what is really happening is your skin is shedding the dead skin from the surface. Not everyone experiences flaking, sometimes it’s just a matter of switching to a less potent product to stop the skin from flaking.
Myth: Do not use Retinol products during the daytime
False. It is in fact perfectly fine to use retinol products during the day as long as you are also using a sunscreen as the last product you apply to your face. Research has shown that both retinol products and vitamin C products work well under SPF products. Retinol does cause the skin to be more sun sensitive so be sure to wear a sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30.
