Retinol Creams: What You Need to Know?

Retinol cream is a topical cream used as a skin care product. The remedy contains Vitamin A and can care for serious skin illness such as acne. Retinol cream increases the production of cells in the top layer of skin, helping to revitalize the skin. As a result, the skin gradually looks younger in appearance. The cream also causes more collagen production, making the skin appear plumper. It may also reduce pigmentation issues that stem from sun damage.

Retinol Creams

1. Retinoic acid is a shape of Vitamin A which is active in the body and which is proven to have anti aging effects on the skin.

2. Earlier studies were all conceded on Tretinoin which is short for trans-retinoic acid. Tretinoin based creams are confirmed to reduce fine lines and wrinkles and stimulate the production of collagen.

3. For many years Tretinoin was the only retinoic acid used in skin rejuvenation and it was used in prescription only products because of the high risk of severe irritation. It was also commonly used for treating acne and other skin disorders.

4. Recently cosmetic scientists have started developing less irritating forms of retinoic acid to achieve the anti aging effects of Tretinoin without the downside of skin redness and burning. These retinol and pro-retinol compounds allow retinoic acid to be delivered more slowly to the skin and thereby reduce irritation. It was a retinol product of this sort that was used in the Michigan study.

5. Anti aging pro-retinol compounds available in creams and serums sold now include: Retinol, Retinyl Actate and Retinyl Palmitate – watch out for these names in the list of ingredients

6. Pro-retinol compounds need to be present at a level that works – ideally a minimum of around 0.5% as in the Michigan study. If the retinol ingredient is listed way down the bottom of the packaging it may mean it’s only present at a minute level which won’t have any effect at all.

7. Go for retinol products that call themselves that – or reveal the source of the anti aging effect.

8. More is not necessarily better – retinol can still have an irritating effect on the skin at higher levels – especially if your skin is at all sensitive. Work up to higher levels over time and stick within a general maximum of 1% for anti aging purposes.

9. All retinol products will make your skin more sensitve to sun damage. You should up your level of sun protection. Wear a broad spectrum sunscreen – at least SPF 30

10. If you use a retinol serum – you will probably need a good anti aging moisturizer on top

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