Retinoids are a form of topical vitamin A that can be used to encourage sloughing of the skin in order to reveal fresher, younger-looking skin underneath. This makes them a good fit for treating wrinkles, which may be more pronounced due to the existence of dead skin cells on the skin. Because retinoids also encourage the production of collagen and elastin, applying them can make the skin appear more elastic, resulting in fewer wrinkles.
Tazarotene
Tazarotene, which is sold as Tazorac or Avage, is a newer retinoid that has been shown to be as effective in treating wrinkles as tretinoin. The application also may have faster results than tretinoin in fighting wrinkles, according to SmartSkinCare.com. Patients also reported thicker skin, which reduced the appearance of wrinkles, according to Journal Watch Dermatology. However, this topical application can have side effects, including burning or irritation following application. This typically subsides with time.
Within two weeks of application, patients note seeing an improvement in wrinkling, according to Journal Watch Dermatology. Other benefits include reducing damage from sun exposure, such as age spots and areas of hyperpigmentation.
Adapalene
This wrinkle fighter is often manufactured under the brand name Differin. While this topical medication may not be as effective a wrinkle fighter as tretinoin and tazarotene, it is considered to be less irritating, according to SmartSkinCare.com. This product is available in gel, cream and liquid forms, according to PubMed Health. Symptoms such as redness, drying and itching can occur when a person first begins to apply adapalene, but these side effects often go away within two to four weeks.
Tretinoin
Tretinoin also is known by brand names such as Retin-A and Renova, according to SmartSkinCare.com. When applied to the skin, it activates retinoid receptors in the skin cells. These receptors signal the cells to begin growth and discourage the breakdown of collagen and elastin, two fibers that give the skin its elasticity. As a result, the skin's aging process can be slowed and in some cases, reversed. However, the results of the application can vary from cell to cell. Irritation also can occur upon initial application.
In addition to fighting wrinkles, tretinoin is effective at fighting a number of signs of aging, according to Chad L. Prather, M.D., a Baton Rouge, Louisiana-based dermatologist. These signs include reversing pigmentation associated with sun damage.
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