Lecture on Retinols and Retinoids

Introduction

• Hosts: Dr. Maxfield and Dr. Shah discuss skincare, specifically retinols and retinoids.
• Retinoids are a family of vitamin A derivatives, including retinol, retinaldehyde, retinoic acid, and newer generations like adapalene and tazeratine.

Benefits of Retinoids

• Acne Treatment: Essential for managing and treating acne.
• Anti-Aging and Photoaging: Help with fine lines, wrinkles, skin texture, and hyperpigmentation.
• Skin Texture and Hyperpigmentation: Improve overall skin appearance.
• Mechanism: Retinoids are converted in the skin, affecting skin cell turnover and stability.

Categories and Recommendations

Starter Retinols

• Criteria: Gentle, low irritation, supportive ingredients.
• Recommendations:
  • CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol: Uses encapsulated retinol for slow release, includes calming ingredients like niacinamide and ceramides.
  • Kiehl's Retinol: Microdose formula with peptides and ceramides for reduced irritation.

Retinols for Dry Skin

• Vehicle: Moisturizing creams to offset dryness.
• Recommendations:
  • Olay Regenerist Retinol: Includes peptides, niacinamide, and is a staple brand.
  • ROC Retinol Correction Cream: Known for stabilizing retinol, available in fragrance-free version.

Best Body Retinol

• Importance: Addresses crepey skin, hyperpigmentation, and body acne.
• Recommendation:
  • Versed Press Restart Retinol Body Lotion: Affordable, includes jojoba oil and squalane.

Retinoids for Acne

• Mechanism: Reduces oil production, normalizes keratinization, alters skin pH.
• Recommendations:
  • Adapalene (Differin or La Roche-Posay): Highly effective, over the counter, stable with benzoyl peroxide.
  • Prescription Options: Tretinoin and Tazeratine for those needing stronger treatments.

Best Overall Retinols

• General Use: Anti-aging, pigmentation, overall skin health.
• Recommendations:
  • Paula's Choice 1% Retinol: Includes peptides, vitamin C, calming and soothing ingredients.
  • Skin Better Science AlphaRet: Contains glycolic acid, retinol, lactic acid, ceramides, and antioxidants.
  • Adapalene and Tretinoin: Effective for a wide range of skin concerns.

Conclusion

• Importance of Dermatological Consultation: Personalized treatment recommendations.
• Telemedicine Options: Use apostrophe.com if unable to see a dermatologist in person.
• Final Thoughts: Consider retinoids as part of routine if tolerable, links provided for shopping.

Additional Notes

• Retinoids provide comprehensive skincare benefits and are highly recommended by dermatologists.
• There's a need to balance efficacy with skin tolerance, especially for beginners.
• Product preferences can vary; choose based on skin type, concerns, and budget.