Anti Aging Skin Treatments Containing Retinol

A common ingredient in many over the counter anti aging skin treatments is retinol, a pure form of vitamin A. Unlike some other ingredients advertised as anti aging retinol has been clinically tested and shown to be effective for the reduction and prevention of fine lines and wrinkles. It is also effective in increasing the oils in the skin especially for those over forty. A stronger form of vitamin A called tretinoin is available in prescription only anti aging skin treatments such as Retin-A, Avita, Renova but may cause irritation and redness to those with very sensitive skins.

Glycolic acid and other chemical peels are also used to restore a youthful looking skin but they may leave the skin dry, red, flaky or scaly if the skin is sensitive. In this case a wiser choice would be a milder retinol containing skin care products. Although products with retinol are less effective than those containing tretinoin they are milder and will give good results over a few months with daily use.

How do retinol and other vitamin A derivatives work?

These are small molecules which can easily penetrate the top layer of the skin and reach the deeper levels. Collagen, which supports the skin, and elastin which provides elasticity are present in these deeper levels. As we age and are exposed to the damaging rays of the sun or other environmental pollutants collagen and elastin are damaged resulting in sagging skin with little elasticity. Retinol penetrates to the collagen and elastin and repairs the damage resulting in firmer skin with increased elasticity. Hence a decrease in lines and wrinkles.

Very dry skin can also occur as the skin ages and retinol products are excellent as increasing the natural oils in the skin and so reverse the dryness.

Side effects of using retinol containing anti aging skin treatments

Side effects are usually mild and only last for a day or two. they include redness of the skin, irritation or itching and occasionally stinging. Side effects are higher for products containing tretinoin which should only be used under the care of a dermatologist or other health care provider. Retinol and related products also increase the skins sensitivity to the sun so are best used at night or with a high factor sunscreen.