Retinoid & Retinol Skin Care in Laurel, MD
Years of prolonged sun exposure, smoking or poor nutrition coupled with the skin's natural loss of elastin and collagen fibers can contribute to a litany of unwelcomed facial aging features such as wrinkles, fine lines and skin sagging.
These facial feature foes lead many women and men to seek out anti-aging products promising to reverse age signs and prevent future recurrences. In fact, stroll down the beauty aisle of any major department store, and you would be hard-pressed to find a skin care brand that does not offer a serum, cream or other topical product that is touted for its anti-aging abilities.
However, not all anti-aging products are created equal, and many skin care products contain ingredients which do not lend themselves well to reversing or preventing the signs of aging. Two ingredients, however, do hold up to their hype and prove time and time again their ability to treat wrinkles, fine lines, sun damage, dark spots and even acne. These two powerhouses, Retinol and Retinoids, penetrate the outer layer of the skin to stimulate collagen production and encourage new cell turnover for skin revitalization.
To schedule a consultation with a qualified skin care specialist in Laurel who specializes in retinoid and retinol skin care, call (410) 204-2254 or contact Dr. Karen Clarke-Bennett online.
Prescription Retinoids 101
First introduced in 1971 as a prescription acne drug, retinoids are a class of chemical compounds derived from vitamin A. They work by increasing cell turnover, causing surface skin cells to die more rapidly to encourage new cell growth underneath. Retinoids also stimulate collagen production, correct pigmentation concerns, unclog pores and treat numerous skin conditions ranging from psoriasis to warts.
Fluctuating in potencies, prescription retinoid products must be started gradually due to their powerful effects, and many people experience sensitivities as their skin adjusts to the ingredient, particularly in the first few weeks. It may take 4 to 6 months for your skin to become full adjusted to the retinoid product. The most widely prescribed retinoids are tretinoin, adapalene and tazarotene.
Over-the-Counter Retinol
If you have sensitive skin or have never used a retinoid, over-the-counter (OTC) retinol may be a better choice for your skin. Retinol is a form of vitamin A that is well-tolerated by most skin types and is much milder than retinoid products. When retinol is applied topically to the skin, special enzymes in your body begin gradually converting retinol into the active form, retinoic acid.
Similarly to retinoid, retinol products work to increase cell turnover and correct many skin concerns; however, it works much slower than retinoids to minimize potential irritations. Your healthcare provider may begin your skin care regimen with a retinol serum or cream and work your way up to a retinoid prescription.
Am I a Good Candidate for Retinol or Retinoid?
Most people are good candidates for retinol or retinoid skin care. Your age, skin type and skin needs will determine which form of vitamin A is most suitable for you. Most men and women aged 20 and older can safely begin a skin care treatment plan which incorporates retinol or retinoid. In fact, by starting retinol and retinoid earlier, you can help to prevent many of the unfortunate signs of aging from ever developing.
You may experience certain side effects as your skin acclimates to retinoid and retinol products. Side effects may include:
- Dry skin
- Redness
- Flaking
- Peeling
- Stinging or burning
- Itching
- Discoloration
Retinoids should be avoided if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Skin treatments like waxing, shaving, facials, electrolysis or laser treatments, dermabrasion or peels can cause excess redness or even damage to retinoid-treated skin. It is important to only begin retinol or retinoid under the guidance of a healthcare provider who can assess your skin's health and ensure you use a potency and form of retinoid/retinol that will benefit your skin the most.
Meet with a healthcare provider in Laurel who specializes in retinoid and retinol skin care. Call (410) 204-2254 or contact Dr. Karen Clarke-Bennett online.
A Better You MediSpa & Wellness
Address
525 Main StreetSuite 101
Laurel, MD 20707
(410) 204-2254
www.abetteryoumedispa.com
Hours
Mon:
10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Tue:
10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Wed:
10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Thu:
10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Fri:
10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Sat:
10:00 am - 3:00 pm