Retinoids vs. Retinol
The Secret to Ageless Skin
The world of skincare is ever-changing. One day one product or device is all the rage, the next it’s something else. There is one product, however, that has proven its effectiveness time and time again in all circles of the beauty industry. This best kept secret? Vitamin A.
According to Dr. Des Fernandes, Founder and Scientific Director of Environ® Skin Care, everything that defines healthy-looking skin is a direct result of vitamin A. It is the only known molecule that helps keep the skin healthy and helps to provide anti-aging benefits.
When applied topically, derivatives of vitamin A may help reverse signs of sun damage and aging, prevent acne flare-ups, and reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, large pores and brown spots.
“Aging skin is a direct result of sun-induced vitamin A deficiency. Correct the deficiency and you’ll have more radiant-looking skin.”
—Dr. Des Fernandes, Founder and Scientific Director of Environ® Skin Care
Retinoids vs. Retinol
The two most common topical vitamin A products on the market are retinoids and retinol. Let’s dive into what they are and the difference between the two.
Retinoid, or tretinoin, is a synthetic vitamin A derivative. It is available as a topical cream, gel or liquid, and is used to treat acne, sun-damaged skin and signs of aging. It can’t erase deep wrinkles, but it can help improve the appearance of surface wrinkles, fine lines and dark spots. It may sound counterintuitive, but tretinoin works by irritating the skin, speeding up the life cycle and turnover of skin cells, resulting in a more youthful appearance. Brand name retinoids include Retin A, Retin-A Micro, and Renova. Other retinoids include Tazarotene (brand name Tazorac) and Adapalene (brand name Differin and now sold without a prescription). Because of their potency and strength, most retinoids require a prescription from your doctor.
Retinol is a natural vitamin A derivative found in many over-the-counter skin care products and does not require a prescription. When retinol is applied to skin, it slowly and gently converts to retinoic acid. Retinol products are considered milder and less potent than prescription tretinoin for its time-release factor. This means it’s delivered into the skin slowly, over a period of hours, instead of all at once upon application (as retinoids are). This is why retinol users often experience less, if any, irritation. Retinol is ideal for sensitive, reactive skin types and those with moderate sun damage. Make no mistake, despite being gentler, retinol is still extremely effective and can deliver the same results as a prescription retinoid with long-term use.
Which is Right for You?
If you have skin challenges that need tackling such as severe acne, talk to your dermatologist about a prescription retinoid. If you would rather ease into the use of topical vitamin A, give retinol a try. It is the gentler way to go and does not require a prescription.
My Go-To Retinol Products
Environ Skin Care is my go-to brand for professional-grade retinol products. I love, love, love this skincare line!
There are a couple of ways you can take advantage of the power of retinol to your skincare regimen. The first is to simply add the Focus Care Youth+ Concentrated Retinol Serum 1 to your current skincare routine. Over time, and as your skin grows accustomed to the potency, you will graduate to Serum 2 and finally Serum 3.
A Great Retinol to Start With
Formulated with high concentrations of vitamin A, Environ® Focus Care™ Concentrated Retinol Serum 1 may improve the appearance of uneven skin, premature aging, and fine lines—giving your skin a firmer and smoother appearance. Use 2-3 bottles of Serum 1 before stepping up to Serum 2.
If you are wanting to go all-in and establish a new skincare regimen, I recommend either the Environ EssentiA® or the Youth EssentiA® line which also offer Environ’s unique Vitamin STEP-UP SYSTEM™. Again, there is a gradual increase in potency that allows the skin to become more comfortable with higher amounts of vitamin A and other ingredients.
If you’re thinking retinol is something you would like to try, book a Skincare Consult or Advanced Facial with me so that I can take a close look at your skin and recommend the products best-suited for you.
Please note that due to their high levels of active ingredients, Environ® products are a consultation-only skincare line and may only be ordered through me at The Skin Lounge if you are an established customer. Email me on or before the 3rd Friday of each month to place your product order and you’ll receive it by the end of the month.
Do You Have a Retinol Story?
So many of my clients quickly find that retinol is truly a hero skincare ingredient with the power to transform the skin’s appearance and texture! Next week one of my clients will share her experience with retinol, so stay tuned. Until then, I would love to know if you have used retinol-based products and what results you have seen. Do email me!