Skin Care Ingredients Dictionary: Retinol, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C & More

If there is an ingredient that is more admired than any other ingredient for its ability to fight wrinkles and perfect complexion, it is this derivative of Vitamin A. “This is a deal with retinol,” explains Hirsch. “We were talking about it in 1975, and we’re still talking about it because it works.” In post-study studies, retinol builds collagen, reduces fine lines, and skin. It has been shown to improve the texture and fight acne.

The prescription version (retinoic acid, or retin-A) works the fastest, but is expensive and can dry out. Over-the-counter retinol takes 8-10 weeks to produce results (6 weeks for Rx), but is usually combined with anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve redness, peeling, or dryness. Also, some insurance is cheaper than a prescription, usually starting at around $ 100.

Regardless of which type you use, you will want to slowly mitigate the use of retinol. “I start with the mildest version of the patient, one night a week at onset,” said Amy Wechsler, a New York City dermatologist. Once your skin begins to tolerate pea-sized amounts, you can finally go up to 2 nights a week. However, avoid intense physical scrubbing and peeling while using retinol. Don’t forget to moisturize, moisturize and moisturize. Use additional sunscreen for the first 6 months.