4 Types of Retinoids and How They Work

When it comes to cosmetic dermatology, anti-aging treatments make up the vast majority of procedures and products. And with anti-aging skincare such a hot topic in the cosmetic world, patients are always clamoring for new and unique products to improve their skin and treat wrinkles and blemishes of all kinds. According to Dr. Eric Treiber MD and his team at Treiber Dermatology, when it comes to anti-aging, nothing works as well as retinoids. Considered to be the gold standard in age defying skincare, retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that work by binding to retinoic acid receptors, which then can act as transcription factors and affect gene expression. This makes them very powerful and able to produce significant changes in the skin – increasing the number of healthy skin cells overall, while eliminating the old, dead ones as well. In addition, they work to reduce the overall tendency of cells and keratin debris to clump together and clog up pores, increase collagen production and decrease discoloration issues. One of the best parts about retinoids is that they offer a long list of benefits and are versatile in their treatment, as there are a number of different types that fall under the retinoid umbrella. Each version has different benefits that work best for different skin types – to find out what’s best for you and your issues, Dr. Eric Treiber MD offers us this important information about a few of the most common forms of retinoids.

·  Retinoic Acid

At Treiber Dermatology they recommend this acid for patients with age spots or sun spots, and other hyperpigmentation issues. Retinoic acid is the active form that vitamin A breaks down into in order to be utilized by the skin. It plays a role in cell growth, stimulates collagen and elastin production and improves hyperpigmentation and discoloration. Prescription retinoids contain retinoic acid, while over-the-counter retinoids are gradually converted to retinoic acid through a reaction that occurs within the skin.

·  Retinol

One of the more common forms, Retinol has become highly popular over the years for its results. Although less potent than prescription retinoids, retinol is known to accelerate cell turnover, boost collagen production and smooth and even out skin tone. One of the most efficient versions, when used correctly, patients will experience few, if any, side effects.

·  Tretinoin

The brand name is quite common, known as Retin-A – this is a popular skin ointment that comes in two different forms. The stronger form is generally recommended for severe acne and acne scar issues, as it can resurface the skin easily and help with high-level exfoliation – therefore it must be used in moderation or it can cause irritation. In the milder form, it is best used for mild exfoliation and helping to reduce the appearance of mild surface wrinkles and skin blemishes.

·  Isotretinoin

Also known as Accutane – the brand name, this prescription oral vitamin A derivative is extremely potent and in many cases far more effective than any of its topical counterparts. According to Dr. Eric Treiber MD, this form of retinoid is generally only recommended for those patients with extremely severe, cystic acne, that fails to respond to other forms of treatment. It is vital that patients follow all directions as this is a strong medication.

For more information on retinoids or other skincare products, be sure to contact Treiber Dermatology today.