Vitamin A is vital for healthy skin. Retinol, an active form of vitamin A, is an antioxidant widely used as an ingredient in prescription and non-prescription skin creams. Retinol also refers to a compound that is used to treat acne and other forms of skin damage from aging and exposure to sunlight. Today, all forms of retinoids, or compounds derived from vitamin A, are used in medical treatments for the skin thanks to their effectiveness and reliability.
Sources of Retinol
Retinoids are a group of vitamin A chemicals that are present in foods and can be synthesized in laboratories, according to MayoClinic.com. Naturally occurring vitamin A should be consumed daily, because it is so important to skin, teeth, bone and eye health. It can be found in whole milk, animal livers, and in yellow, red and orange fruits and vegetables, such as carrots, tomatoes, yellow squash and citrus fruits.
Function
As an antioxidant, retinol neutralizes free radicals in the body, MedlinePlus reports. Free radicals are unstable oxygen molecules responsible for breaking down skin cells and causing cancer and wrinkles to develop. When applied to the skin, retinoids increase cell turnover and regeneration, thereby helping reduce acne and unclog pores. Topical retinoids also stimulate collagen production in the skin, which makes them useful in treating wrinkles and fine lines. They have also proven effective for treating hyper-pigmentation, or skin darkening, from injuries or sun damage.
Side Effects
Using retinol has some side effects that must be taken into consideration, the American Academy of Dermatology notes. The most common occurrence is a slight reddening of the skin, or a mild stinging or warming sensation. This is normal and will disappear once your skin adjusts to the medication. Other effects include an increased sensitivity to sunlight, itchiness on the applied area and slight scaling, especially in cases of excessive application. If any of these symptoms persist or become severe, consult a dermatologist.
Using Retinol
Gradually ease yourself into using a topical retinoid, recommends DermNet NZ. Use it every other night at the start. If your skin is sensitive, or you find that it irritates your skin, wash it off after about an hour and apply it less often. Once your skin has gotten used to the topical retinoid, use it every night and, if possible, twice a day. Apply it to dry skin and do not get it in your mouth or eyes. Use sunscreen if you are going out in the daytime. If you use cosmetics and have acne, select oil-free products. If your skin goes red and peels excessively, even with infrequent application, discontinue use of the retinoid.
Considerations
Individuals who are allergic or hypersensitive to vitamin A should avoid retinoids, MayoClinic.com explains. If you are pregnant or considering pregnancy, it is best to keep your intake of vitamin A within recommended dietary limits. Avoid retinol and all vitamin A derivatives, because they increase the risk of birth defects. Excessive doses of vitamin A are associated with brain malformations in infants. Vitamin A is excreted in human breast milk, and its effects on nursing infants are currently unknown.
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