Summary of Why You NEED To Use A Retinoid For Your Skin (Dermatologist)

00:00:00 - 00:10:00

Retinoids are well-studied compounds that promote collagen and elastic fiber formation, reduce wrinkles and sagging, fade dark patches, reduce acne, and have anti-skin cancer effects. However, they can also cause dryness and irritation, making it essential to begin slowly by mixing a green-pea sized amount with moisturizer every other night. Retinoids should not be used during pregnancy as they could cause fetal harm. Apply it at bedtime, avoid using other acidic products at the same time, and use moisturizers throughout the day to combat the drying effects of retinoids. A reputable over-the-counter retinoid product recommended by the dermatologist is Differin Gel, which is effective and reasonably priced.

• 00:00:00 In this section, the dermatologist explains the benefits of using retinoids in skin care routines. Retinoids are well-studied compounds that promote collagen and elastic fiber formation in the skin, reducing wrinkles and sagging. They also promote dispersion of pigment packets and encourage cell turnover, leading to overall exfoliation, resulting in faded dark patches. Moreover, retinoids reduce sebum production and help fight acne by breaking down clogs. Lastly, they have anti-skin cancer effects that encourage cell differentiation, which inhibits malignant growth.
• 00:05:00 In this section, the dermatologist discusses the downsides of using topical retinoids, which can cause dryness and irritation, as well as increase skin turnover, leading to peeling effects. It is important to start low and go slow when using a retinoid, using a green pea-sized amount mixed with moisturizer every other night to minimize side effects. One of the most critical downsides is that retinoids should not be used when pregnant as they could cause serious harm to fetal development. However, the benefits of retinoids, such as reducing wrinkles, helping with pigmentation, minimizing acne, and treating skin cancer, are worth it in the long run. Ultimately, patients must persevere through the initial phase of dryness and irritation to reap the benefits of using a retinoid product.
• 00:10:00 In this section, the dermatologist gives advice on how to incorporate a retinoid into your skincare routine. She recommends applying it at bedtime to avoid any potential inactivation by sunlight, avoiding putting other acidic products like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide at the same time, and using a gentle facial cleanser before application. The dermatologist also recommends using moisturizers throughout the day to combat the drying effects of retinoids. She suggests starting with a weaker over-the-counter retinol product and increasing strength if necessary. The dermatologist's top recommendation for an over-the-counter retinoid product is Differin Gel, which is effective and reasonably priced. She suggests prioritizing reputable companies and finding a price point that works for you.