Be careful with the "miracle drug" Retinol

Retinoids are divided into 3 generations, both oral and topical. Depending on your skin problem, you should choose the appropriate generation.

For acne it would be Tretinoin, Adapalene, Isotretinoin (oral). For melasma and hyperpigmentation it would be Tretinoin. For anti-aging it would be Tretinoin, Tazarotene and Retinol (often mistaken for all Retinoids).

Among them, Retinol is the most prominent and popular because it is the strongest ingredient in products containing the Retinoids group without a doctor's prescription.

To understand Retinol better, let's learn a little about aging. Aging includes intrinsic aging and extrinsic aging, which is mainly caused by sunlight. Photoaging is related to the activity of free radicals caused by UV rays.

Through free radicals, UV rays reduce collagen synthesis. Retinol acts on the skin by binding to receptors in the cell nucleus, promoting skin cell regeneration from deep within the epidermis and increasing collagen production, making the skin firmer and more youthful. Retinol also exfoliates the skin's surface, making the skin look brighter. The skin will appear renewed, reducing wrinkles and improving skin tone.

Be careful when using products containing Retinol to ensure effectiveness and avoid side effects. Photo: Internet

Although Retinol has many benefits for the skin, it can cause skin irritation, especially in people with sensitive skin. By peeling off the top layer of skin, Retinol also increases the risk of sunburn. Therefore, when using products containing Retinol, you need to pay attention to the following to ensure effectiveness and avoid side effects:

1. Start with a low concentration: When using Retinol for the first time, you should start with a product with a lower concentration, then gradually increase as your skin adapts.

2. Use the product at night: Retinol can make the skin sensitive to sunlight. You should use products containing Retinol at night before going to bed and use sunscreen during the day to avoid the harmful effects of UV rays.

3. Use the right amount: You should use the product just enough according to the manufacturer's instructions, do not use too much or use too often (usually 2 times/week).

4. Combine with moisturizer: Retinol can dry out the skin, so you should use additional moisturizers and restorative products to keep your skin soft and supple.

5. Do not combine with irritating products: Do not use Retinol at the same time with AHA, BHA, and vitamin C products.

6. Do not use during pregnancy: Retinol is believed to be harmful to the fetus, so you should avoid using products containing Retinol when pregnant or breastfeeding.

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