If you’ve been on SkinTok, you’ve probably heard of Tretinoin and retinol. They’re like siblings who come from a family of compounds called retinoids. Both promote rapid exfoliation and stimulate collagen and elastin production. But, while they might sound like twins, these two are more like siblings with their own unique powers. Let’s dive into what makes each one special!
What is Tretinoin?
Tretinoin, or retinoic acid, is a potent retinoid used primarily to treat acne and reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. Originally developed for the treatment of acne, tretinoin has since been discovered to offer a plethora of benefits for overall skin health.
How Tretinoin Works
The magic of tretinoin lies in its ability to accelerate cell turnover. By promoting the shedding of old, damaged skin cells and stimulating the production of new, healthy cells, tretinoin helps keep the skin looking fresh and youthful. On top of that, it boosts the production of collagen, a crucial protein that maintains skin elasticity and firmness. This dual action not only helps to clear up acne but also diminishes the appearance of wrinkles and dark spots over time.
How are Tretinoin and Retinol different?
→ Tretinoin: The Heavy Hitter
- Natural form of Vitamin A
- Needs a prescription
- Stronger, might not be fit for sensitive skin
→ Retinol: The Big Chiller
- Synthetic form of Vitamin A
- Does not need a prescription, found in many over-the-counter products
- Milder, better tolerated by sensitive skin
Just like siblings– we can’t leave these two together, or they might cause chaos! Since they perform similar functions, there’s no need to use retinol while you’re using Tretinoin (doing so might actually make your skin worse and cause irritation). Tretinoin shouldn’t be used with other skincare actives, so consult with your doctor first. Avoid using harsh products such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, vitamin C, etc. on the same area as Tretinoin unless your doctor advises otherwise.
Is Tretinoin right for you?
Since Tretinoin is prescription-only, talk to your doctor to see if it’s a right fit for you. Your doctor will assess your skin type and severity of conditions to determine what strength prescription you need.
That’s enough sibling drama for now.
XO,
BiotechBeauty
