Retinol vs Retinoid
Winter time is the best time to focus on your skin. Retinol or retinoids may be your skin's greatest gift of the season. If you have not already implemented a retinol or retinoid into your skin care routine, your skin may be seriously missing out.
Retinols or retinoids are commonly talked about in skincare, but often people do not know the difference between the two. While they sound the same, and offer many benefits such as anti-aging and general skin improvement, they are actually not the same at all.
To start, retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that are converted into retinoic acid for their use in skincare. Retinoids are proven to enhance the skin's overall appearance and complexion by improving texture and tone. It is known to be one of the most effective skin care products for wrinkles and is widely used by teens and adults. Very high concentrated retinoids, such as tretinoin can be prescribed by a dermatologist and can be beneficial for those with acne prone skin and scarring. Overall, retinoids increase the production of collagen and stimulate new blood vessels, promoting healthy skin and reducing the appearance of wrinkles, acne and pigmentation.
Retinol, on the other hand, is a type of retinoid used mainly in over-the-counter products instead of prescription medications. Although retinol is super effective, it's different from prescription retinoids on a molecular level. Oftentimes when buying retinol products from beauty stores or grocery stores, it is combined with other ingredients meant to hydrate and brighten the skin. Retinols tend to be less irritative on the skin than prescription retinoids as irritation is the most common side effect when it comes to retinoids. When you first begin using a retinoid or retinol, your skin may experience redness and dryness, but eventually the skin will ease into the product.
If you're not sure which one is best for you, think less is always best, and you can always consult with your dermatologist. I personally think most people are good with using an over the counter retinol for anti-aging purposes and general skin improvement. If there is acne involved, then a prescription strength retinoid from your dermatologist is in order. For non-acne skin a retinoid can make the skin extra dry, irritated, and strip the natural moisture barrier, so consider that before going in for the maximum strength product. Less is always best!