As we age, our skin begins to lose its elasticity and glow. This is due in part to the decrease in Vitamin A that occurs as we age. Retinol is a form of Vitamin A that can help combat this decline, improving the overall appearance of our skin.

Vitamin A is important for the health of our skin due to its role in collagen production. Collagen is a protein that gives our skin its structure and strength. As we age, our bodies produce less collagen, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin. Retinoids can help boost collagen production, resulting in firmer, smoother skin. In addition to its anti-aging benefits, Vitamin A is also effective in treating acne. Retinol helps to unclog pores and decrease inflammation, resulting in clearer skin.

Different types of Vitamin A:

There are many different forms of Vitamin A that can be used in skincare products. these can be known as, retinol, Retinal, Tretinoin, and more! Vitamin A also comes in multiple different forms, the forms we sell come in serums and Creams.

Retinol:

Treats collagen degradation, and hyperpigmentation, and stimulates glycosaminoglycans (AKA GAGs) GAGs support collagen and elastin providing moisture and cushioning to the dermis. Retinol comes in varying forms such as serums, and creams. it is important to find a Skin identical formulation, meaning it’s important to find the right type that suits your skin type and lifestyle. Ask your clinician about the formulation of the retinol

Retinal:

Retinal is also known as retinaldehyde. It is more potent than retinol and also works 11 x faster than retinol but without the sensitizing effect (irritation, dryness, etc.)Retinal stabilizes cellular processes and improves acne, wrinkles, and texture

Tretinoin:

Referred to as Retin-A. It is a pure form of retinoic acid – this means it can cause significant sensitization. it is only available via prescription by a physician or dermatologist because It needs to be monitored due to the potency and side effects. Most commonly used for acne, advanced aging, and in some cases stretch marks.

Commonly experienced side effects when starting a Vitamin A are:

Increased Sensitivity
Sensitivity to the sun
Redness/irritation
Purging
Dryness

Retinoids can often be used incorrectly leading to skin irritation, and sensitivity deterring people from using them. A common side effect is also purging, occasionally we see clients who have started retinol, however, have reached the stage of purging and stopped using it, this occurs due to the increased cell turnover rate which brings up oil and bacteria that have been trapped under the skin, its important to continue to push through this phase as the results will be much better once the purge is over.

Our Favourite Retinoids in the clinic are:

Pro Retinol Creme from Lira

Serum 16 from Cosmedix

Serum 24 From Cosmedix Elite

Pro Retinal plus treatment from Lira

If you're thinking about adding Vitamin A to your skincare routine, we recommend speaking with one of our expert Dermal Clinicians. We have an awesome method we use here in The Clinic to introduce it into your regime to avoid sensitivity and irritation - if you are interested please visit us or send an email to Maggie!

Clinician Tip:

When using Vitamin A it is important start slowly, as your skin will need to adjust. Vitamin A can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so be sure to use sunscreen during the day when using products containing Vitamin A.

What is Vitamin A and Why do I need it?