No BS Guide to Retinol

Retinol has become the big beauty buzzword when it comes to skincare these days. Every other anti-aging formulation in the market lists it as an ingredient that claims to be the penultimate solution for all your skin needs.

It has long been praised by researchers, dermatologists, beauty editors, and skincare fanatics alike as the “superhero ingredient in the battle against fine lines and wrinkles.” Some people even say that nothing fights the signs of aging better.

If you’re wondering why there’s so much hype about this ingredient; And should you incorporate it into your skincare regimen? We have answered all these questions and many more.

Retinoids are a big family of compounds, and it is obvious to get confused with their names (or benefits and uses). You need not worry as we will walk you through everything to make the best choice for you. (Ready to get excited?)

Here’s the ultimate guide to the “queen of anti-aging skincare” - Retinol, which includes everything you need to know about what Retinol is, its benefits, uses, and potential side effects that could help you to amp up your skincare game! 

A Brief History Of Retinol (where it all began) 

Retinol was originally developed to treat acne in the 1970s. Its anti-aging properties were discovered by accident when it was observed that the patients who had been prescribed retinol, had healthier skin; their wrinkles lessened, pigmentation became lighter, and skin became smoother.

It's discovery induced a magnificent wave of transformation in the skincare industry. Since then, it started going viral as a powerful anti-aging ingredient and has been praised numerous times as a revolutionary youth-enhancing active. 

What Exactly Is Retinol?

In scientific terms, Retinol is one amongst the several types of retinoids available in the market for topical application. Retinoid is essentially a kind of umbrella term that is used for all vitamin A derivatives. Retinoids primarily stimulate collagen production and work on skin cell renewal. Hence, acting as an excellent anti-aging ingredient and giving you that youthful, supple skin.

When it comes to Retinoids, what many people don’t know is that there are various types of retinoids available in the market. In most countries, Retinol can be bought over-the-counter without prescription; however, other Retinoids like Retinoic acid or Tretinoin require a doctor’s prescription.
Dermatologists often mention retinol as the "gold standard" anti-aging ingredient because it is universally accessible and has decades of research proving its effectiveness. 

What Does Retinol Do For Your Skin (How it Works)? 

Studies show that the topical application of retinol significantly affects both the cellular and molecular properties of the epidermis and dermis.

It increases epidermal thickness and upregulates genes for collagen that boost collagen production, which is one of the fundamental building blocks of youthful skin—resulting in a significant reduction in facial wrinkles.

Dr. Madhuri Agarwal, A mumbai-based celebrity dermatologist told QT Ways that
“Hydrogenated Retinol and Peptides are powerful epidermal and dermal life-givers”

On its topical application, Retinol needs to be converted by the enzymes present in the skin into Retinoic acid, which is the active form of vitamin A to have biological outcomes.

When Retinol turns into Retinoic acid, it causes exfoliation at a molecular level, enabling skin cells to maintain regular cell rejuvenation. Long-term use of Retinol can help restructure the skin and promote cell proliferation, resulting in fading of hyperpigmentation, reduction in fine lines, revealing brighter, healthier skin, and smoother texture.

There’s no denying that Retinol is a powerhouse in itself. Let’s take a look at its wide array of skincare benefits. 

Benefits of Topical Retinol for Skin 

• Works like magic to smooth out wrinkles and fine lines by stimulating collagen production, improving skin elasticity. 
  
• It also stimulates skin cell proliferation, which restores the skin's thickness, resulting in a firmer, smoother skin texture.
  
• It increases the pace of cell turnover and paves the way for new skin cells, which accounts for decreased hyperpigmentation, dark spots, or sunspots. 
  
• Lightens dull skin by exfoliating at a cellular level, which results in a more luminous and refined complexion.
  
• It is a proven ingredient that treats acne by unclogging pores, limiting sebum overproduction, and preventing further outbreaks. 
  
• It also reduces enlarged pores and increases skin resiliency. 
  
• Its antioxidant properties decrease the effects of UV induced skin damage. 
  

 And the list continues. In short, it is your time machine to turn back the clock on your skin’s age.

If you have already made up your mind to try this ingredient, don’t just rush to buy one yet as there are high chances you might end up with wrong formulation (and disappointment).  

How To Choose The Right Retinol For Your Skin? 

While looking out for the best form of Retinol, please choose the one that best suits your skin type and is present in its most stable form (meaning encapsulated). Make sure that it allows deep absorption into the skin (e.g., Serums). 

QT Ways Retinol Serum

• Formulated with Granactive Retinoid that is a potent Retinoid without irritation. 
  
• It is oil-based formula yet very light and absorbs quickly 
  
• It is non-comedogenic, fragrance and odor free  
  
• Contains no harmful chemical or skin irritants such as essential oils 
  

How Can You Add Retinol To Your Skincare Routine? 

Retinol can be included in their skincare regimen by anyone facing skin aging, be it in the form of fresh fine lines or the more aggressive wrinkles. Many dermatologists state that everyone should incorporate retinol in their skincare routine, especially after their 30s. 

How to use Retinol Serum 

• In the night after cleansing and toning, take a pea-sized quantity of Retinol on your fingertips with a dropper (using too much retinol can irritate the skin). 
  
• Dab the product onto your face and neck; strictly avoid the lips, eye area(including eyelids), and corner of the eyes and massage gently until it has absorbed into the skin.
  
• For better outcomes, let it absorb into your skin for some time before applying your night cream or moisturizer. 
  
•  We all want clear and glowing skin overnight, but the truth is, skincare takes time to show results. To see noticeable anti-aging effects from Retinol, use it consistently for at least 2-3 months and make it a part of your daily skincare routine.

Different forms available:

Although there are enormous benefits of Retinoids, they have limited clinical use in its pure form (surprised?). It is due to photochemical instability and associated skin irritations.
As explained before, Retinol needs to be converted into Retinoic acid to be effective, which can be highly irritating for some. There are milder Retinyl esters such as Retinyl Palmitate or Retinyl Acetate available that do not cause irritation but are less potent than pure Retinols.

Research shows that it is as effective as Retinoids but causes no irritation. Also known as retinoic acid ester since it is directly related to retinoic acid. As mentioned earlier, our skin can interpret retinoic acid, the active ingredient. Other forms of retinoids need to be converted enzymatically to Retinoic Acid, which is the primary reason behind skin irritation. It's not the case with Granactive Retinoid. It directly binds to the retinoid receptors of the skin cells to work its magic (no wonder it is called next-generation anti-aging active). 

Concentration percentage and their effects: 

Concentrations of 0.01% Retinol or higher are shown to be efficient at diminishing several signs of aging, fading acne, hyperpigmentation, and overall enhancement of skin health. The higher the dose, the higher the benefits. You can achieve its maximum benefits by using at least 2% serum-containing Retinol or Retinoid Derivatives.