The Reason You Should Be Using A Retinoid

Retinoid, also known as retinol and retinaldehyde, is derived from vitamin A and might just be the next best thing in beauty. According to The Cut and New York dermatologist Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank, they're "the most useful anti-aging ingredient around," and Dr. Anne Chapas considers them to be "a first-line agent for acne." With claims so bold they could quite literally change your skin's life, we can only assume you want to know more, so we did some investigating to determine all the reasons you should be using retinoid. 

Recent studies by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) and the European Dermatology Forum (EDF) have concluded that retinoids are vital in fighting acne and should be an essential part of any acne sufferer's skincare regime. The AAD states "retinoids are the core of topical therapy for acne because they are comedolytic, resolve the precursor microcomedone lesion, and are anti-inflammatory." In other words, if you have acne, you should invest in a retinoid ASAP.

There are other benefits that go beyond fighting acne. Harvard Health Publishing notes that using a retinoid on the regular can boost up your skin and potentially turn back the clock a bit, as it can improve fine lines and wrinkles. If you have age spots or rough skin, it can help with those as well. However, it's important to note that you won't see changes overnight. It typically takes three to six months before you will see any improvements.

Retinoids can be sold over-the-counter, and they're also available through prescription by your doctor or dermatologist — it all comes down to the strength of the product. Given the active ingredients in the product, it can cause peeling, redness, and irritation, so it's best to patch test before using on sensitive skin.