How Do Topical Retinoids Help With Acne Treatment?

The right acne treatment can make your skin healthier and younger-looking. Acne can affect your appearance and self-esteem. Studies show that topical retinoids can help improve your skin. Knowing more about these skin care products can help you make informed decisions. Here are the details on how topical retinoids can help with your acne treatment.

The basics of retinoids

Retinoids come from vitamin A, which is important in skin health. Vitamin A stimulates the production of elastin and collagen in the skin. Thus, it helps the skin stay healthy. That is why a retinoid called retinol is a common component in anti-acne and anti-aging skin care products. It comes in serum, cream, or gel form, which an individual can apply to the affected skin.

How topical retinoids help with acne treatment

Acne develops when dead skin cells and oil block the skin pores. Bacteria then mix with the blocking substances. This results in skin inflammation. Dermatologists recommend topical retinoids as part of acne treatment. These medications can help improve hyperpigmentation, acne, or fine wrinkles.

Retinoids can unclog the pores. They also encourage the skin to self-repair. This reduces skin inflammation and smoothens the skin. Retinoids can also rejuvenate the skin.

Studies reveal that topical retinoids can treat inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne. Scientists also found out that these acne treatment medications can control acne and reduce oil production. Many set guidelines recommend topical retinoids as the foundation of each acne treatment. Retinol is a weak retinoid for mild to moderate acne cases. Severe acne will need stronger topical retinoids from a dermatologist.

Retinoids trigger the cell turnover of the skin. These medications can remove dead skin cells at a faster rate. Once the old skin leaves, a new layer of skin surfaces. The process opens the pores and pushes out irritants or bacteria that cause acne.

Retinoids for wrinkles and acne scars

Research shows that retinoids can be more than part of an acne treatment. They can also delay the signs of aging. Clinical data demonstrate the lasting and temporary effects of retinoids on wrinkles. These topical medications can also trigger the growth of new cells at the site of pimple scars. The treatment can help bring out a clearer, smoother, and younger-looking skin.

Using topical retinoids

An individual can choose either a gel or cream form of retinoids with a low concentration. Increasing the concentration can come later when the skin becomes used to the initial treatment. Preparing the skin is important before applying topical retinoids. Below are some tips on how to treat the skin with them:

• Wash the skin with warm water first. Pat it dry.
• Clean the hands first before applying the topical acne treatment on the facial skin. Wait for the facial skin to dry.
• Apply enough topical retinoids on the affected areas.
• Spread the acne treatment with the tips of the fingers. Make sure to avoid the lips, eyes, and nostrils. Let the skin absorb the medication.
• Refrain from applying makeup hours after the acne treatment. It is ideal to apply the topical retinoids before bedtime.

Possible side effects of this acne treatment

Research shows that facial skin is thinner and more sensitive than the skin that covers the body. Some people may worry about applying topical retinoids on facial skin. This type of acne treatment may result in some side effects. The following are some of the common ones:

• Increased temperature sensitivity
• A warm feeling on the skin
• Darkened, irritated spots of the skin
• Itching and scaling
• Peeling and burning
• Worsening acne that will resolve after about two weeks

Exposing the treated skin to ultraviolet rays can increase sensitivity. This can lead to sunburn. It is important to protect the skin from sun exposure. Wear sunglasses and hats and stay in the shade after going through this acne treatment. Applying sunscreen can also help shield the skin from the sun.

Caring for the skin

Some skincare products may interact with topical retinoids. This can result in irritation. Stay away from exfoliants and drying agents while using a retinoid acne treatment. These products can irritate or even damage the skin. Topical retinoids unclog the pores and peel the skin. Using another type of exfoliant will leave the skin red and raw.

Peeling the skin excessively can increase one’s risk of skin deterioration. Using a vitamin C serum instead of another exfoliant can penetrate the skin better. This product can even reduce possible skin irritation. Always applying sunscreen before stepping outside can help prevent skin cancer and premature skin aging.

A retinoid acne treatment can help reveal a healthier, smoother skin

Acne can bring about problems like low self-esteem and damaged skin. Scars from acne can even darken the skin and leave it looking dull. The right acne treatment can remove impurities and dead skin cells. Working with your dermatologist can help you achieve a clearer, smoother, and younger-looking skin.

Get more information about Optimal Medical Group in Fresno at https://www.omgwellnessmd.com.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.