A Complete Beginner’s Guide To Retinoids
Types Of Retinoids
There are many types of retinoids that you will find in different skincare products. Here we have discussed some of the main ones used in skincare products. However, one point to take note is that all retinoids need to be converted into retinoic acid to work.
Retinyl Palmitate
Retinyl Palmitate is the least effective form of retinoids which needs to undergo three conversions for it to be recognized by our skin. It is suitable for very sensitive skin.
Retinol
One of the most well-known types of retinoids is retinol. Retinol is formed by converting retinoic acid twice. The down side of retinol is that it tends to dry out skin and cause sensitivity after use.
Retinaldhyde
Retinaldehyde or retinal, requires one step to be converted into retinoic acid before it can be used on our skin. The conversion process dilutes the strength and effectiveness of Retinaldhyde. It is available over the counter, has less potential for irritation, but is also less potent compared to retinol.
Retin A
Retin A is the strongest form of retinoids that comes with great side effects such as redness, swelling, itch and peeling of skin.
Granactive Retinoid
One of the latest forms of retinoid is Granactive Retinoid. This retinoid has various positive attributes, making it essential for skin care.
Granactive Retinoid does not require any forms of conversion, making it directly recognizable by your skin’s retinoic receptors and hence more effective than other retinoids. Studies have shown that Granactive Retinoid is more stable than retinol and does not cause irritation. It helps to renew skin conditions as it boosts collagen production to give skin a supple, radiant and youthful glow. It speeds up the rate of skin cell generation to restore skin thickness that has thinned over time due to the aging process. Granactive Retinoid is gentle on the skin and has higher potency levels, which can be found in our latest Face Filter 2% Retinoid Serum.
How is Granactive Retinoid Better Than Other Forms of Retinoid?
Undoubtedly, Granactive Retinoid is relatively new to the skincare industry, but that doesn’t mean that the ingredient is inferior. Granactive Retinoid is proven to be better than most other types of retinoids in many ways. Listed below are some benefits of Granactive Retinoid.
Granactive Retinoid Has An Instant Effect
Skincare products that contain Granactive Retinoid work on the skin almost immediately. This is different from other retinoids like retinol, as these retinoids need to be broken down to be recognized by the skin before they can be absorbed into the skin. Granactive Retinoid has a larger molecular structure that allows it to be penetrated deeper into the skin. The main benefit of Granactive Retinoids is that there is no downtime for it to be recognized by the skin. Fine lines and wrinkles become less noticeable and skin tones become more even.
A Granactive Retinoid Lasts Longer
Granactive Retinoids is a more stable form of retinoids that offer longer-lasting effects than most other retinoids, making it a more suitable ingredient for many anti-acne and anti-aging skincare.
Granactive Retinoid has fewer side effects
Granactive Retinoid is gentler on the skin, therefore less likely to cause skin irritation such as redness, dryness and flaking.
Key Benefits of Retinoids
The discussion would be incomplete if we did not include the benefits of retinoids. These are some of the main advantages of using retinol and retinoids.
Anti-Aging
One of the underrated benefits of retinoids is that their anti-aging properties. Retinoids have been proven to reverse the signs of aging by reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, giving younger looking skin.
Retinoids can increase skin cell turnover rate, boosting the production of hyaluronic acid and collagen and also slow down the breakdown of collagen within skin. Collagen is vital for smooth and healthy looking skin. As we age, skin cell turnover rate slows down, resulting in the formation of wrinkles and fine lines. To maintain the skin cell regeneration process, retinoid-based products can help to promote collagen production
Treats Acne
Retinoids works on acne by exfoliating the outermost layer to remove sebum, dead skin cells and dirt, thus preventing pores from clogging and the formation of acne. Retinoids reduces the appearance of scars by evening out the skin tone and and promote new cell growth.
Improve The Skin’s Texture & Tone
Retinoids keeps the outermost layer of the epidermis thin to reduce skin dullness. Skin tone and texture is improved, giving smoother and brighter skin. Retinoids protects skin from environmental and sun damage. Additionally, they also help in the reduction of dark marks and post-inflammatory pigmentation that pimples and UV rays can cause.
Tips For the Application Of Retinoids
Start Slow
Try starting slow. Let your skin get used to the ingredient. If your skin doesn't react, you can increase the usage of the product. It is recommended to use retinoid once or twice a week.
Try “Sandwiching” With A Moisturizer
To help your skin adjust to retinoids, try mixing it with a moisturizer; this will help reduce and prevent irritation. This tip is a must-try for you if you have dry or sensitive skin. You can also try “sandwiching” by layering the retinoid between two thin moisturizer bases and adding hyaluronic acid on top.
Only Mix When You Know The Reaction
Avoid mixing products that may cause skin irritation. For example, alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and retinoids cannot be mixed together. For instance, Retinoids and AHAs will block each other’s functions when used together as Retinoids are fat soluble and AHAs are water soluble.
Who Should Use Retinol/ Retinoids?
Generally, anyone over 25 can use retinoids but those with sensitive skin should avoid using retinoids. However, they may try using Granactive Retinoid. For a start, try out Oh Hello Bae's Face Filter 2% Retinoid Serum.
A granactive retinoid has all the properties of regular retinoids but is not harsh on your skin. You can start using retinoids earlier if you have acne. However, you must avoid Retinoids if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Conclusion
Retinoids, in general, serve your skin with many benefits. However, one must be cautious while using retinoids as mixing with the wrong ingredients can cause permanent damage to the skin. And if you want a safe and more effective retinoid, give our Face Filter 2% Retinoid Serum a try today!