Age-Fighting Retinol

Lately, I've been seeing many retinol products out there. Retinol is actually a form of vitamin A, essential to the skin. Many products such as Philosophy's Help Me-Retinol Night Cream, have been introduced and are becoming more popular in the realm of anti-aging skincare.

Initially, retinol was introduced as an acne fighter years ago, but is now seen to have numerous benefits. These are listed on beauty product labels as retinyl acetate, retinyl linoleate, retinyl palmitate and retinyl proprionate in the ingredients. Retinoic acid (also called tretinoin) is a potent derivative of vitamin A, and is used in most acne medications. To make things plain and simple, listed below are the effects of retinol on the skin:

1) Fades sun-induced sun spots.
2) Help release collagen in the skin, plumping out wrinkles and eventually making the skin appear more youthful than it is.
3) Safeguards the skin from potential enzymes (released during sun exposure) that may breakdown the collagen.
4) Smooths out the skin and makes it feel softer.

Most cosmetic moisturizers use very little of the retinol derivatives, as they are very potent. Initially using a product with retinol, may cause some irritation to the skin, as well as dryness. This is completely normal.  It takes time for the retinol to kick in, usually taking about 2 to 6 months to see a noticeable difference. It is very important to continue using the retinol products, otherwise sun spots and wrinkles will reappear.

Most night creams use retinol, as vitamin A does not react well with the sun.  Many women in their 40s and 50s tend to use such creams, but you can literally start using retinol creams at any age.  If you're like me in your mid-20s, then I say there's no harm in starting the anti-aging process early.  I don't know about you guys but I'm terrified of getting wrinkles. I'll do anything to help the aging process. Here are numerous links of different retinol creams that are available on the market:

- LiftActiv Retinol HA
-Dermaglow NuVectin
-RoC Wrinkle Correxion
-La Roche-Posay Redermic
-Estee Lauder Re-Nutriv

I personally haven't used any of these creams, but eventually will try some out. Please share whether you have tried or are currently using retinol products. What are your concerns with this ingredient?