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What exactly is retinol?
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“It can help stimulate cell turnover as well as help stimulate collagen production.”
However, the termretinolhas become a not-always-accurate catchall for vitamin A-derived ingredients in beauty products.
Retinol, more accurately, is one of several types ofretinoids.
Also known as tretinoin,retinoic acidis the most bioavailable retinoid.
But there’s a catch.
That doesn’t mean over-the-counter retinol isn’t effective, however.
Retinyl palmitate, the ester of retinol combined with palmitic acid, is also frequently found in skin care.
“Therefore, they are less potent than retinol,” Dr. Chang says.
And finally, there’s retinaldehyde or retinal aldehyde.
What can retinol do?
You’ve probably heard that almost everyone can benefit from using retinol, and that’s not an exaggeration.
So what does that mean for your skin-care concerns and goals?
“From an acne standpoint, the increase in cell turnover helps unclog pores,” Dr. Farhang explains.
We loveThe Inkey List Retinol Eye Creamfor its gentle, hydrating, slow-release formula and super affordable price.
Her favorite over-the-counter serum:RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Night Serum Capsules.
(Encapsulationmeans a slower, gentler release into your skin.)
If you personally prefer a cream format, try the Best of Beauty Award-winningSkinBetter Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream.
“Studies showyour skin still benefits from this.”
That may be because retinol works best when you use it sparingly, according to Dr. Chang.
Another program method loved by dermatologists: the sandwich technique.
More must-know skin-care info:
Now watch this dermatologist’s entire routine:
