Retinol is nothing new. It was discovered 81 years ago. For decades it has been hiding. However, with a few new developments, it is stepping back into the spotlight.
Retinol is a retinoid, which is a derivative of Vitamin A. Vitamin A is actually one of the body’s key nutrients.
In the 1930’s a Swiss chemist named Paul Karrer was awarded a Nobel Prize for his work synthesizing retinol. Due to its sensitivity to light and oxygen, retinol was metabolized into a more stable form called retinoic acid during the 1960’s. In 1971 the FDA approved a prescription strength treatment for acne called Retin-A. Also know as tretinoin, a brand name for retinoic acid.
People not only were seeing skin-clearing results, many patients were reporting a reduction in hyperpigmentation and fine lines. However, there were drawbacks. Retinoic Acid was harsh, producing dry and irritated skin.
In attempt to handle the effects of Retinoic Acid, researchers began to revisit the gentler form of Vitamin A, Retinol. Retinol is much milder than Retinoic Acid. Due to recent advancements in the ability to microencapsulate Retinol molecules, the issue of Retinol’s oxygen and light sensitivity became manageable. Retinol has become the industry standard in reference to Vitamin A as an anti-aging ingredient in skin care products.
Researchers have realized that the genius of Retinol is that it isn’t active when applied to skin. Your skin decides when its ready to be switched on. The cells grab the Retinol, hold on to it until they are ready, and then convert what they need into Retinoic Acid. This dramatically reduces the negative effects while having the same fundamental results. Not only does Retinol work, it continues to work, providing increasing effective results the longer you use it.
In conclusion, not only does Retinol effectively treat acne by unclogging pores, it also slows signs of aging while keeping your complexion healthier. It also boosts collagen, softens skin, evens the texture, and fades dark spots. The question is, Retinol, why not?