Retinoids 101 And Why You Should Use Them

Should you be using a retinoid? Yes, yes and yes. Retinoids are one of the foundations in the anti-aging skincare regimen. Read on!

What are retinoids and why use them?

• Retinoids are Vitamin A derivatives that increase cellular turnover which causes our skin to regenerate more quickly, thus making your skin look more youthful, vibrant, and refreshed.

• As we age, our cellular turnover decreases significantly. When we are babies, our cellular turnover is as quick as 2 weeks — but once you’re in your 20s-40s, it’s more like 1-2 months! Retinoids help keep our skin looking beautifully young and we recommend that everyone over the age of 25 should use one.

• If you struggle with acne, retinoids are one of our most recommended treatments!

When should I use retinoids?

• Retinoids should be used at night. Here are tips on how to layer your skincare products!

Tips for starting to use retinoids:

Using a moisturizer like Barefaced Hydrating Lotion following your retinoid application can speed up the adjustment period most people go through when starting to use retinoids. The increased cellular turnover that retinoids cause can also cause your skin to become dry and flaky at the beginning. I generally recommend patients gradually ease into using retinoids to minimize this side effect. Start three times a week for 2 weeks and then if your skin is tolerating it, increase to 4 times a week for 2 weeks until you are using the retinoid 5-7 times per week. The dry and flakiness should disappear within a week or two if you follow the above steps. When using retinoids, apply sunscreen daily as retinoids make your skin more sensitive to the sun.

My favorite retinoids: 

• Differin: Perfect for teens/20's who struggle with non-cystic acne

• Retinols (can be purchased over the counter):

  Skinceuticals

  SkinMedica

  Obagi

• Retinaldehyde: RetinAL Skin Therapy

  This is a great option for people with more sensitive skin or who have been unable to tolerate retinoid use in the past. Also, safe to use around the eyes (upper and lower lids) and neck.

• Tretinoin (only available by prescription or purchase at a medical office)

  Atralin

  Obagi Tretinoin 0.05% gel (generic version of Atralin)

• Bakuchiol ( a retinoid alternative to use during pregnancy/nursing - always double check with your OB/GYN!)

  Overachiever Facial Serum

We’d love to hear if retinoids have made a big difference for you. You’re another step closer to being barefaced!