Back to Basics: Retinoids
1/10/2018
The new year is a time of reflection - a time to prioritize, organize, and simplify our lives. In the spirit of new beginnings, I'm starting off 2018 by going "back to basics" and educating my patients on the essentials of skin care. My #1 anti-aging product is Retinoids. Read below to find out why. The more you know, the more you glow!
- Dr. Kathleen Welsh
WHY DO WE LOVE RETINOIDS?
Retinoids increase collagen and skin cell turn over, plump up skin, as well as exfoliate dead skin cells. This means smoother, more light reflective skin.
HELLO GLOW!
Retinoids also reduce fine lines and wrinkles, reverse sun damage, prevent and treat acne. Skin looks younger, brighter and blemish free.
SLOW AGING!
RETINOL VS. TRETINOIN:
WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?
Both retinol and tretinoin increase cell turnover, leading to the benefits described above. However, retinol does not require a prescription while tretinoin must be prescribed by Dr. Welsh, Dr. Hui Austin, or Garrett Forrest, PA.
In order to legally prescribe any medications, you must be seen at least once per year in our office. Please call us to schedule an appointment at 415-292-6350.
MYTH VS. FACT
DON'T RETINOIDS THIN MY SKIN?
Myth. In fact, retinoids do the exact opposite. By encouraging your skin to slough off dead cells and more rapidly replace them with new cells, the outer dermis actually thickens helping to fill in creases, minimize pores and create a smoother appearance.
IF I USE RETINOIDS I HAVE TO WEAR SUNSCREEN, RIGHT?
Fact. It's important to wear sunscreen every day but especially so if you're using any retinoid product. Retinoids exfoliate the dead skin cells that act as a "cloud cover" and protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays. We recommend a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, every day, retinol or not.
MY SKIN IS REALLY SENSITIVE. I CAN'T USE REINOIDS RIGHTS?
Myth. Many people believe their skin is too sensitive for retinoids. But unlike the Retin-A from your teenage years, our next generation retinoid formulas are the gentle giants of skincare. We also have great tips about how to minimize the redness and peeling some people experience when first starting a retinoid.
We know almost anyone can successfully and comfortably use a retinoid!
Some of our favorite retinoids include:
For patients with thick, oily, and/or acne prone skin, we prescribe our strongest retinoid - Obagi Tretinoin 0.1% Cream.
Powerhouse anti-aging technology combines an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) and a retinoid for maximum skin rejuvenation with little to no irritation.
Topix Enriched Retinol Eye Repair
Retinol is not just for the face - our fan favorite retinol eye cream is a unique formulation of ingredients that will soften fine lines, diminish puffiness, and provide antioxidant protection.
Prescriber's Choice Tretinoin Body Cream*
Prescription strength tretinoin is also available for the body through Prescriber's Choice. Our Tretinoin Body Cream helps smooth bumpy skin and diminish the appearance of cellulite in a luxuriously moisturizing formula. Please call our office to purchase.
*Annual office visit with doctor or PA required to purchase Rx products.