U nas zapłacisz kartą
Mikrodermabrazja czy retinol - Co lepiej działa na Twoją skórę?
Which retinoid is best for my skin type?
Trying to find the right topical retinoid for your skin can be challenging. Your choice should hinge on several factors: what you hope to achieve for your skin, how sensitive your skin is, and considerations like product quality, price, and ease of getting your hands on it. So, let’s dive in and help you discover which retinoid might be right for your unique skin type and needs.
Is it better to use retinol or tretinoin?
Neither retinol nor tretinoin is inherently better, but one might be better for your personal skin:
While retinol can reduce fine lines and improve uneven skin tone and texture it’s less potent than other retinoids like tretinoin. It needs to be converted into a usable form (i.e., retinoic acid) by enzymes before affecting your skin cells.¹⁶
That said—don’t write it off. Evidence shows that retinol can be effective at treating certain signs of aging.
“Although tretinoin is considered the ‘gold standard,’ we all have unique skin!” explains Phelan. “Retinol may be a better choice for those who are seeking an over-the-counter product, have sensitive skin, or find they cannot tolerate prescription strength tretinoin at all.”
Tretinoin has both acne-fighting and anti-aging benefits. Available in gel, lotion, or cream form, tretinoin can help improve skin texture, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines but it also is a first line treatment for acne.¹⁷
If you don’t want to deal with a prescription, then stick with retinol—just be sure to research your product’s ingredients before using it. Researching takes a little extra time and effort, but it’s important to avoid ingredients that may cause breakouts and irritation.
Best retinoid treatment based on skin goal
Keep your skincare goals in mind when choosing a topical retinoid. Are you looking to treat acne or signs of aging? Both?
You should know off the bat that, while retinol treats signs of aging, it’s not proven to treat acne—tretinoin is likely the better option for those with both concerns as it is FDA-approved to treat both of these conditions.¹⁸ That said, tretinoin is available by prescription only, so you can’t just pick it up off the shelves like your everyday retinol serum. (If you’re a Curology member, you can access tretinoin—talk to your dermatology provider for more details.)
Our Verdict
The Olay 24 Retinol collection is effective and well worth trying out. The products are affordable, and you can frequently find them on sale, helping you save even more money. The Olay brand’s ingredients are all backed by research and are in packaging that prevents the retinol from deteriorating.
References
[1] American Osteopathic College of Dermatology “RETINOIDS, TOPICAL”
[2] The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology “How Much Do We Really Know About Our Favorite Cosmeceutical Ingredients?” Published February 3, 2010
[3] Oxford Academic Aesthetic Surgery Journal “Cosmeceuticals: The Evidence Behind the Retinoids” Published January 1, 2020
[4] National Library of Medicine “The vitamin A ester retinyl propionate has a unique metabolic profile and higher retinoid-related bioactivity over retinol and retinyl palmitate in human skin models” Published November 5, 2020
[5] US National Library of Medicine “Anti-Wrinkle Benefits of Peptides Complex Stimulating Skin Basement Membrane Proteins Expression” Published December 20, 2019
[6] National Library of Medicine “Glycerol and the skin: holistic approach to its origin and functions” Published July 1, 2008
[7] Everyday Health “New to Retinol? A Complete Guide to the Skin-Care Ingredient” Published April 8, 2020
[8] Harvard Health Publishing “Do retinoids really reduce wrinkles?” Published October 22, 2019
[9] National Library of Medicine “Nicotinic acid/niacinamide and the skin” Published April 3, 2004
*All individuals are unique. Your results may vary.
Summary
Retinol is a skin care product used for fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, and acne. It's found over the counter in many forms and concentrations. When using retinol for the first time, use a low concentration at night and once every couple of days. Slowly increase the strength and frequency over time. This helps to reduce the likelihood of skin irritation.
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
- American Academy of Dermatology Association. Retinoid or retinol?
- American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. Retinoids, topical.
- Zasada M, Budzisz E. Retinoids: active molecules influencing skin structure formation in cosmetic and dermatological treatments. Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2019,36(4):392-397. doi:10.5114/ada.2019.87443
- American Academy of Dermatology Association. Should I apply my skin care products in a certain order?
By Patty Weasler, RN, BSN
Weasler is a Wisconsin-based registered nurse with over a decade of experience in pediatric critical care.
Hydradermabrasion
Hydradermabrasion, also known as a hydrafacial treatment, is a combination treatment that offers the same exfoliation one might expect from a diamond tip or crystal microdermabrasion, as well as a skin infusion treatment. These infusions of solutions “contain active ingredients like antioxidants for added anti-aging benefits,” Dr. Zeichner explains.
“Microdermabrasion is a versatile procedure that can address various skin concerns and promote healthier-looking skin,” explains Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Entière Dermatology in New York. “It is generally safe for all skin types and can be an excellent option for those seeking a non-invasive way to improve their complexion and address specific skin issues.” Dr. Levin notes that the main benefits of microdermabrasion may include:
- A smoother and brighter complexion
- More even skin tone and texture
- Improved appearance of age spots and dark spots
- A reduction in fine lines and wrinkles
- Enhanced penetration of skincare products
