Most everyone has heard about Retin A and retinols. Dermatologists routinely prescribe it and over the counter skin care products claim to use it as an ingredient. How does this product work? What is the difference between Retin A and retinols? Are they safe to use? Can Vitamin A really be the miracle cream that people claim?

Retin A, also known as tretinoin or retinoic acid, is a derivative of Vitamin A. Retinoic acid is the active ingredient in prescription strength retinols. Retinols are also derived from Vitamin A but are about 20% weaker than Retin A. Retinols are found in over the counter (OTC) products whereas Retin A can only be obtained with a doctor's prescription.

OTC retinol products are weaker. Therefore you can't expect the same results you would get from prescription Retin A. Retinols actually need to be converted by enzymes to become active. This can be an uncertain process. Retinols also degrade when exposed to air, so they lose even more effectiveness. Some people use OTC retinols to avoid irritation and skin reaction. Irritation is still possible with OTC retinols but generally will be less than with Retin A. Retinols may be an option for those with sensitive skin or certain skin conditions. It's also possible that a lower strength of Retin A would be tolerated. You can get benefits from these products, but not at the level prescription Retin A provides.

Retin A was originally prescribed strictly for acne patients. One of the things Retin A does so successfully is to unplug follicles. The follicle is always plugged when you have a breakout. Retin A is excellent at breaking down the dead skin cells in the blockage and causing the skin to shed them at a faster rate. One of the things dermatologists noticed in long-term Retin A users was that they seemed to be aging less than other patients. Eventually, Retin A was F.D.A. approved to treat sun-damaged skin.

The benefits from using Retin A are impressive.

Retin A speeds up cellular turnover and the exfoliation process. It can lift pigmentation on your skin thus revealing a brighter, more radiant complexion. It can reduce fine lines. Skin cells act younger and healthier. Skin is smoother and more evenly toned. Retin A also thins the epidermis which is made up dead, dull skin cells for younger looking skin. It was once thought that Retin A thinned the skin overall, which would result in more delicate, easily wrinkled skin. Research has shown that this is not the case. Retin A actually thickens the underlying layers, making skin plumper and more youthful. Whether you choose retinols or prescription Retin A, you'll be giving your skin the most proven, effective anti-aging product on the market. It's the magic of Vitamin A.

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