While ageing is a natural process of life, it’s still a common fact that we want to delay the ageing process as much as we can, especially if we are talking about skin ageing. When we talk about skincare and anti-ageing, you must have heard about retinoid as part of the discussion. As one of the most well-studied ingredients throughout history, retinoids have been known as the “royal family” of anti-ageing because they are undeniably one of the most potent actives in the anti-ageing game. However, with great power comes great responsibility or so-called side effects. The same goes for retinoids because due to its’ powerful impact on our skin, we have to use them mindfully to avoid some of their side effects. If you want to get to know the “royal family” better, read through the whole article and be ready to dive into the world of anti-ageing.

Retinoids are an umbrella term for vitamin A derivatives. It is composed of both skincare products you can get from doctor’s prescription and those you can get over the counter from drugstore or skincare products. Tretinoin is one of the most commonly known active forms of vitamin A which are only available through a doctor’s prescription, while the rest of the derivatives are found in over-the-counter products. The other derivatives name is Retinol-esters, Retinaldehyde, Retinol, Retinoic acid-esters. When you hear the word retinoids, the name might be a little overwhelming at first because they can be confusing at times. What are their differences, and which one is best for me? We got you covered; we will simplify it all so you can understand it better.

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Retinoid works on the cellular level in their final active form of retinoic acid. It is recognised by the cell receptor and “wakes them up” to do the work on rejuvenating by reversing the signs of ageing. Different retinoid derivatives require different numbers of conversion to work their magic. Tretinoin is ready in its active form of retinoic acid doesn’t require any conversion to work. However, the other forms, such as retinol, requires a two-step conversion before transforming to retinoic acid. You can think of the conversion as an obstacle for vitamin A to work. Therefore, the more conversion that the retinoid derivatives need, the lesser amount of actives available on the final step.

In the US, some form of active retinoic acid is readily available in OTC and usually known as the brand “Adapalene”. However, in European countries, this medication is still physician-prescribed only. If you are still contemplating trying out this advanced version, you can also try out their other derivatives to test on the water of anti-ageing from retinol and their different forms. So far, retinol is the most commonly well-known and widely-used retinoid derivative in anti-ageing skincare products.

Benefits of Retinoid

Now let’s talk about all the benefits of retinoid. The anti-ageing benefit of retinoids is not an overnight thing and requires dedication and persistence. Generally, their effect can be seen after at least  12 weeks of consistent use and progressively increases until up to 6 months (the longer the better).Here are some of the advantages that you can benefit from retinoid products:

1. Regulate skin cell’s turnover

Our skin’s average turnover rate is around 28 days. However, it slows down as we age. That is why you will experience duller or tired-looking skin a lot easier than your “youthful” years. Retinoid can help revive our skin cell’s turnover back to its normal rate.

2. Acne treatment

Do you remember that one of the major causes of acne is clogged pores, where the top layer of the skin can not properly detach and disrupts the flow of sebum? With one of their ability to regulate skin cell turnover and control inflammation, retinoid has been shown to reduce acne lesions. It can reduce both comedones as well as inflamed acne. It is like killing two birds with one stone.

3. Improve the appearance of fine lines and reverse the sign of premature ageing

Fine lines are one of the earliest signs of ageing. You can pair retinoid with your favourite hydrating products to plump up your skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines on your skin. Wave goodbye to signs of ageing.

4. Fade hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is due to the activation of our skin pigment cell. So many external and internal stressors can activate it. The most common external factor of ageing and hyperpigmentation is excessive sun exposure. Inflammation from acne can also activate the pigment cells, causing the after-effect pigmentation. But you do not have to worry because retinoids have been shown to fade hyperpigmentation from either acne scarring or even sunspots.

5. Increase collagen production and skin’s elasticity

Collagen is the building block of our skin. It gives that plump and elastic look on our skin. In our mid-20s, our skin collagen production starts to decline, causing the loss of bounciness on our skin, thus the ageing. Retinoid can work on the cellular level and signal them to produce more collagen to compensate for the progressive decline.

It sounds like the dream ingredient, especially for ageing skin, right? However, with great power comes great responsibility. Yes, it is a side effect that you will likely experience, especially when it’s your first time using them. Their side effects are commonly called the “Retinoid Reaction” which include signs such as redness, stinging, scaling, itchiness, and purging. The most common mistake that people primarily make is giving up on their retinoid journey right after they experience purging. Purging is a common condition where your acne exacerbates in the first few weeks due to an increased skin cell turnover rate. This is when all the microcomedones on the bottom layer of your skin resurfaces and temporarily exacerbates your condition. Keep going for at least two weeks, and your skin texture will be better for good. However, this side effect is not absolute for every skin since everyone has different tolerance levels. Another great news is that the side effect tends to subside over time.