What Are The Side Effects Of Retinol On The Skin?
Retinol is a type of retinoid which is derived from vitamin A. Retinol is one of the most popular skin care ingredients on the market and is also the strongest over-the-counter retinoid available. Retinol is generally used for conditions of the skin associated with aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, sunspots, and enlarged pores. It is also sometimes used for acne, yet many times more severe acne is treated with prescription retinoids.
Retinol works by going beneath the outer layer of your skin and into the dermis layer (middle layer), where it neutralizes free radicals, which in turn increases the production of elastin and collagen. Additionally, retinol has an exfoliating effect on the skin, so people use it to improve texture and tone. The overall desired effect is plumper, younger-looking skin.
While this all sounds great, it’s important to remember that just because it is well-known doesn’t mean that it is without side effects. In fact, many people who use retinols experience dry and irritated skin. Other common side-effects include inflammation, skin peeling, burning skin, skin sensitivity, scaling and rough skin, and acne. Side-effects are especially common in individuals who tend to have sensitive skin. In more severe cases, side-effects can include eczema, more severe acne, blistering, skin photosensitivity, and stinging and swelling of the skin.
In general, if using any product containing retinol, it is recommended to use one at a time and to apply at night. In fact, if you have retinol applied, sun exposure may put you at risk for the same things you are using retinol to prevent- sun spots and wrinkles. It is recommended to avoid retinol use if you are pregnant or nursing. It is also recommended to not use retinol if you have an active case of eczema, rosacea, or other inflammatory skin conditions.
At Edye’s Naturals we use the power of whole plant oils to rejuvenate the skin. The following oils we use are high in vitamin A: organic apricot kernel oil, organic avocado oil, organic carrot seed oil, organic extra-virgin olive oil, organic jojoba oil, organic lemongrass oil, organic shea butter, and organic sweet almond oil. All of the ingredients in Edye’s naturals are hand selected for their vitamin and mineral profile, and when blended together have synergistic effects. The best part is that you can have healthy skin without unwanted side-effects. Many people use our products for anti-aging and acne, and for a fraction of the cost of many retinol containing products. Our products are also safe to use and bring relief to inflammatory skin conditions.
