10 Retinol Products for Acne, Anti-Aging and More!

What is Retinol? How to use, Benefits, Side Effects, & More!

The Difference between Plant-Based Alternatives, OTC, & Prescribed Strengths

Learn more about this key ingredient below.

Retinoids, retinol, retinaldehyde, Retin-A, bakuchiol are some terms you possibly have heard to help with anti-aging and acne. Every vitamin-A derivative under retinol share a few key characteristics. They’re going to speed up skin cell turnover, even skin texture, brighten skin, provide anti-aging benefits, and help with acne. Finding which kind whether a plant based alternative, over the counter retinol or a stronger prescribed strength would suit your skin better is always the difficultly. In this blog we will give more information that could possibly help with choosing the best kind for you. We always recommend to reach out a skin care professional for guidance.

Retinol 101: The Basics

What is Retinol?

Retinol is a form of Vitamin A derivative that Increases cell turnover boosts collagen production, and regulates oil production. This type of ingredient is an Antioxidant. Retinol is a topical treatment you apply directly to your skin. Retinol comes in many forms, including:

• Creams
• Gels
• Lotions
• Ointments
• Serums

Retinol Skin Benefits:

Anti- Aging 

Reduces signs of aging Improves thickness of skin, fine lines and wrinkles. It Boosts collagen production. The texture of the skin. As we grow older our cell turnover starts to slow down, so giving a boost of retinol helps to keep them going.

Evens skin discoloration & hyperpigmentation Brightens dull skin, age spots and sun spots. It boosts your cell turnover which helps get rid of old dead skin cells thus helping any old scarring or sun damage fade away. The thicker skin is stronger, smoother and has fewer overall imperfections.

Acne

Helps with acne Clears congestion Retinol decreases the function of overactive oil glands and unclogs pores. Clears skin, makes pores look smaller, and prevents breakouts. Plus, it may boost the potency of active ingredients in other acne-fighting medications, so if you use it in conjunction with other cleansers, you might see amplified results. Although using it at the same time is not recommended. Try using acne treatments on days your not using your retinol.

Evens skin discoloration & hyperpigmentation helps fade old acne scars. It boosts your cell turnover which helps get rid of old dead skin cells thus helping any old scarring. Usually acne prone skin has the common issues such as texture, pores and scarring.

How to apply retinol?

Use it in your nighttime skincare routine because sunlight deactivates retinol. Start with applying one to two times a week on non-consecutive nights and gradually increase. Depending on your skin's reaction you could use it up to three to four times a week. Apply the product all over the skin. Possible irritation can occur near the eyes, nose, and mouth area. Avoid areas if irritation occurs.

When to avoid your retinol?

Avoid using your retinol when you know you will be in the sun the next day or currently have sun damage. Thus avoid using it during the summertime because the sun's rays can cause damage. Before receiving any skincare or waxing service in the area of application.

Who can use it?

Almost anyone can use a retinol product. It can be used on all skin types. Although drier skin types should check their moisture levels and hydration in the skin. No matter your stage of life, although those in their late 20s or early 30s may especially benefit from using retinol as a preventative anti-aging treatment. In general, anyone looking to reduce the signs of skin aging or acne.

Can you use retinol while pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to become pregnant?

Retinol is not recommended for women who are pregnant, planning to be or nursing. People with certain skin condition, skin disease, or taking other medications that affect the skin. Those with skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea that's flaring should not use retinol. Consult a dermatologist before using if any of those apply.

Pairs best with:

Nourishing and hydrating cleansers, essences, serums, moisturizers, and mists.

Ingredients such as niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, peptides, and ceramides on the same day.

Using vitamin C, moisturizer and sunscreen the next morning is recommended.

Avoid using:

Heavy scrubs, exfoliants, astringents, toners,

Ingredients such as alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids, salicylic acid & benzoyl peroxide on the same day.

Retinol Side Effects:

Everyone is different and these symptoms might be coming up but only about 10% of people experience these side effects. Not everyone will get the same side effects.

• Dryness/Itching
• Peeling
• Sensitivity
• Redness
• Skin Purging/Acne flair up

Different Forms:

Over the Counter

An over-the-counter (OTC) version of retinoids, retinol is derived (made from) vitamin A and is primarily used to treat mature-looking skin concerns as well as acne. These have a lower percentage than prescribed strengths. Retinols are not the same products as prescription retinoids, which are more powerful. There are three different types of retinoids that you can get over the counter: Retinyl palmitate, Retinaldehyde, and Retinol. However, retinol is still the strongest OTC version available, compared with OTC retinoids such as retinaldehyde and retinyl palmate. Range: 0.01% to 2.0% Converted into retinoic acid when applied to the skin.

Bakuchoil (Plant Based Retinol Alternative) Vs Retinol 

The most common type is Bakuchiol, which comes from plants. This is a great option for those who want to get started using it, as well as an alternative for people with sensitive skin. Plus, it can be used day and night as it's photostable and won't cause sensitivities in sunlight. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties shown not only to stimulate collagen production but also to be more gentle on the skin it doesn't cause as much irritation.

Prescribed Strengths Vs Over The Counter

This is doctor-prescribed concentration. Dermatologists can help guide you to which product to use. Prescription-strength (Rx) retinoids come in smaller percentages but are much stronger. There are four different types of retinoids: Tretinoin, Tazerotene, Trifarotene, and Adapalene. It ranges: 0.025% to 0.1% Come in an active form of vitamin A called retinoic acid. Prescription retinoid is usually prescribed to treat moderate to severe clinical-grade acne, but is also used for wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and textural concerns. Retinoids are available in two forms: topical and oral. Topical retinoids refer to creams, gels, and liquids that people can directly apply to the skin, while oral retinols include tablets and capsules that a person can take by mouth. While prescription formulas are indeed stronger, this also means they carry a higher risk for side effects.

Product Recommendations:

Best Natural Retinol Alternative Face Products:

Eminence Bamboo Firming Fluid (Normal/Dry Skin Types) strengthens and delivers an instant visible firming action. The ingredients mimic the effect of retinol for brightness, softness, and a dramatic increase in collagen, without the side effects. Swiss green apple cells encourage smoother, firmer skin, and protect against future signs of aging. Coconut oil and coconut water help balance and tone the complexion while providing antioxidant protection. Vitamin and mineral-rich bamboo nourishes and restores aging skin.

Eminence Coconut Age Corrective Moisturizer (Normal/Dry/Mature Skin Types) is formulated with Natural Retinol Alternative Complex, with chicory and tara tree, plus Swiss Green Apple stem cell technology to penetrate at the cellular level for skin that appears ageless. The Natural Retinol Alternative Complex mimics the effect of retinol for brightness, softness, and a dramatic increase in collagen, without the side effects. Antioxidants from coconut oil protects and balances pH levels while providing vitamin C benefits. Elasticity and fine line are improved for a firmer and lifted complexion. Shea butter hydrates the complexion and replenishes the moisture barrier for younger looking skin.

Best Natural Retinol Alternative Body Lotion:

Eminence Coconut Firming Body Lotion is a powerful, tightening body cream that boosts collagen production and helps tighten the skin from head to toe.Infused with all the skin-loving, hydrating and firming ingredients, including Coconut, Shea Butter, and Grape Seed Oil to deliver long-lasting hydration and restores aging skin. This nourishing body cream is gravity-defying formula and nut-free.

Best Over the Counter Retinol Moisturizer:

Image Skincare IMAGE MD Restoring Retinol Creme is an ultimate anti-aging night cream that helps to revitalize the skin by minimizing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, dullness, and other signs of aging. This time-released retinol formula smooths out your skin so that you awake looking refreshed and ready for the morning with a beautiful, glowing complexion. This cream, formulated by plastic surgeons, targets the fine lines, dark and sunspots, also other aging signs at-home and after cosmetic procedures. Patented technology delivers vital ingredients deep into your skin thoroughly, immediately, and effectively to support collagen and smooth for a firmer, brighter, and healthier skin. A potent peptide complex fights the appearance of wrinkles and uneven tone.

Activate youth while you sleep. This luxurious retinol night cream, powered by breakthrough Retinol Tri-Active Technology, delivers transformative results to visibly minimize lines and wrinkles and smooth skin's texture. Skin's moisture barrier is also improved with niacinamide and picolinamide. This intensely nourishing overnight cream melts into skin for a supple, vibrant complexion.

StriVectin Advanced Retinol Nightly Renewal Moisturizer is an upgraded moisturizer that contains powerful Retinol and Retinal to correct multiple signs of aging. It pairs Retinol with NIA-114™ and a skin-soothing complex to help reduce the look of redness, for smoother, radiant, and youthful-looking skin.

Best Over the Counter Retinol Serum:

Skin Script Retinaldehyde Serum with IconicA contains active ingredients of Vitamins A and B to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Brightens skin, reduces blemishes and hyperpigmentation. Increases skin moisture content and soothes skin irritation. Skin Script Retinaldehyde Serum with IconicA is for all skin types. ( Normal to dry, aging skin. Hyperpigmentation, Sun-damaged skin, Congested skin, Rough skin, Thin or sensitive skin)

Glo Skin Beauty Retinol+ Resurfacing Serum is an advanced anti-aging treatment for aging skin. Previously known as Glotherapeutics Tretinol 0.5%, it powerfully smooths, tones and softens skin. Glo Skin Beauty Retinol+ Resurfacing Serum reduces the appearance of fine lines and hyperpigmentation with 0.5% All-Trans-Retinol complex.

Retinolic Acid has a beneficial exfoliating, restorative effect on skin. This compound adds the perfect balance to strengthen the integrity of the skin. Rhonda Allison Retinol Supreme is a super-charged serum that works for maximum skin rejuvenation support - texture, fine lines, and overall appearance are enhanced. Rhonda Allison Retinol Supreme is an active corrective that requires guidance from a skin care professional.

Best Retinol Body Lotion: