Retinol is a type of retinoid that is a derivative form of vitamin A. It is used in skin care products primarily for antiaging. It has the property of stimulating cell renewal, stimulating their division, smoothing wrinkles and fine lines, erasing scars, suppressing inflammation in acne.
Retinol is an antioxidant that is considered one of the most effective ways to fight premature skin aging. When it hits the skin, retinol is transformed into its active form, retinoic acid, which helps it enter skin cells and influence their behavior, according to he althdigest.com.
Retinol has the ability to stimulate cell metabolism, promoting the synthesis of collagen, so important for preserving the youth of the skin. Retinol has a positive effect on the structure and texture of the skin, evening out the complexion and making the skin visibly smoother and softer.
The benefits of retinol are really many. It is a key ingredient in many skin care and anti-aging cosmetic products. It has a pronounced anti-aging effect, which in addition reduces sun damage, pigment spots, shrinks enlarged pores, according to byrdie.com. Retinol does this by causing skin cells to turn over, brightening the overall skin tone.
According to a 2017 study published in Dermatology and Therapy, cited by he althdigest.com, retinol also has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that suppress acne and other inflammatory processes in the skin.
But to benefit from all these positive effects of retinol, you need to dose it correctly.
If you overdo with retinol it is very possible to experience some side effects. The most common among them are irritation, dryness, peeling of the skin, burning, redness, discomfort, feeling of tightness.
Redness and peeling most often appear around the lips, under the nose and around the eyes, according to the Mayo Clinic. Dermatitis may also occur if the irritation is greater. Side effects happen when you overdose on retinol or use too high a concentration that is not tailored to your skin. If you notice signs of irritation from retinol, reduce its concentration or discontinue use until you consult a dermatologist.
There are some things you can do to soothe skin irritation from retinol use. Above all, use gentle and gentle cleansers that do not irritate or overdry the skin. Moisturize and moisturize deeply after each wash to avoid additional feeling of dryness and tightness.
You can use colloidal oats or honey which will moisturize the skin and soothe it. They act as natural moisturizers and have an anti-inflammatory effect, stimulating faster skin recovery.