Originally used as an ingredient to treat acne, retinol has proven to be a versatile ingredient for helping women and men improve the overall condition of their skin. This is why you will likely find it in various skincare products, from face creams to serums. 

But what exactly is it about retinol that makes it so special? Why should anyone add it to their regular skincare routine? This blog will go over the benefits of retinol and why it is such an efficient powerhouse for your skin. 

What Is Retinol?

Each vitamin has an alternative name that makes it easier to differentiate. For example, Vitamin C is an ascorbic acid, while retinol is a form of vitamin A – the alcohol version of vitamin A, to be more precise.

Retinol’s main purpose is to stimulate cell turnover as well as increase the production of collagen (which is responsible for the overall health and strength of the skin). Retinol triggers a healing process within your skin without irritating it, while helping you obtain a youthful and blemish-free look. 

Benefits of Retinol

Adding retinol to your skincare routine comes with a series of benefits, including:  

1. Fewer Aging Signs 

Retinol has the ability to stimulate fibroblasts, which may synthesize the collagen fibers. This can reduce aging signs such as fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin. If they’re used in the early stages, retinol-based products can also delay or prevent aging signs. 

2. It Can Even Your Skin Tone

Retinol products can speed up the turnover of skin cells, which may lead to exfoliation. This process removes the damaged cells, revealing the brighter and more even skin underneath, which can lead to healthy-looking skin with fewer imperfections.

3. It Can Reduce Acne

While retinoids are mostly used for combating signs of age, they can also be used to prevent acne. This is thanks to the exfoliating effect of the product. Dead skin cells and dirt can cause your pores to become clogged. If this happens, bacteria can collect and lead to the formation of acne. However, retinol can help exfoliate your skin, clearing out your pores and thus preventing a breakout.

4. Oily Skin Regulation

Retinol can help minimize your pores and reduce the amount of sebum that your skin produces. As a result, there is a lower chance that bacteria will become trapped in your pores. Not only can this reduce acne breakouts and blackheads, but it can also reduce the shine produced by excessively oily skin. 

5. Cost-Effectiveness

The main disadvantage of quality skincare products is that you will likely have to pay quite a bit of money for them. Retinol can be found in over-the-counter alternatives that are often affordable. However, the concentration of retinol matters in achieving results. In our practice, our medical-grade retinol has significantly higher concentration and hence is more effective. Moreover, due to the efficiency of retinol with keeping your skin clean, you might not have to pay as much in the long run for cosmetic treatments.

When Should You Start Adding Retinol to Your Routine?  

Retinol can be very effective when it’s used in the later stages of life, as it can potentially reverse the aesthetic effects of age. However, by adding it to your skincare routine early on, retinol can delay or even prevent the signs of aging and other imperfections. 

Ideally, you should start using retinol in your early 20s, or even your teenage years, before your collagen starts breaking down. As a bonus, you might be able to control acne breakouts that are often associated with earlier stages of life. 

The Bottom Line 

Retinol is a great asset for your skin that can help you with various conditions. Not only can it exfoliate your skin, leaving a glowing complexion behind, but it can also reduce the signs of aging. If you need retinol products for your skincare routine, then contact Dr. Ariel Ostad for an appointment, and he can offer the recommendations you need.

For more information about retinol treatments and what they can do for your skin, you can contact Dr. Ariel Ostad at 212-517-7900. He can answer all your questions at his practice on Lexington Avenue, Manhattan. You can also fill out the online contact form for further questions or an appointment.