Retinol Alternatives Flashcards
What is the best alternative for retinol?
If you have suffered retinol allergies before, you may find yourself searching for alternatives. Here’s my list of retinol alternatives:
Bakuchiol
Peptides
Oligopeptides
Acetyl hexpeptide
Also consider actives with retinol-like effects on skin aging such as
Sea buckthorn oil
Adenosine (amino acid)
Is there a natural alternative to retinol?
Plants can be a source of natural retinol. For instance the cruciferous vegetables are sources of natural retinol which do not irritate skin because these are whole plant extracts which also have anti-inflammatory effects unlike synthetic derivatives.
Are retinol alternatives as good as retinol?
The truth is retinol is only as effective as…how well you tolerate it. It simply isn’t true that as long as the dose is low, as long as you skin cycle—that you won’t get side effects. What you can do instead to to switch out of retinol to other alternatives. Retinylpalmitate for example is well tolerated even by those with sensitive skin because it requires a 3 step conversion process, which is gentler on skin.
Which is safer than retinol?
Peptides are recommended especially for those with sensitive skin and or a known history of retinol sensitivity/allergy. For areas such as around the eyes or the mouth area, the skin is thinner and may be more vulnerable to irritation. Look for eye creams that contain natural sources of retinol such as brassica or retinol alternatives such as peptides.
Do retinol alternatives work?
Yes. Studies have shown that oligopeptides have equivalent effects as retinol does, sans skin irritation risks.
Is natural retinol home made?
No. Natural retinol refers to plant-based or botanical sources of retinol. Examples are bakuchiol, rose hip seed oil, carrot seed oil and sea buckthorn oil. Proper distillation processes are essential to ensure purity
What does retinol serum do for the face?
Retinols belong to the family of retinoids which stimulate cell renewal and collagen production. Retinol serums are over-the-counter cosmeceuticals, distinct from prescription retinoids. The key differences are that retinols are less potent than retinoids and require a longer period of use before results are seen.
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Is it good to use retinol serum everyday?
It depends on how well you tolerate it. If you are using a retinol product for the first time, it is advisable to start at a lower frequency i.e. 2-3 times a week or as directed by the manufacturer. Different formulations of retinol also confer different tolerability levels, so it is best to do a patch test before you apply to the entire face. For example, under the jawline, left on overnight is good practice. Check for signs of irritation such as redness, flaking, stinging or burning.
Remember to only use retinols at night because of its sunsensitising potential. Application of sunscreen and sun avoidance is also advisable
Which retinol is good for beginners?
The dose of retinol affects how effective it is but the benefits are also limited by its tolerability.
The lowest doses of retinol begin at 0.01-0.03%. It is good practice to start at the lowest doses if you have never used retinols before. Moderate-strength retinol ranges from 0.03% to 0.3% which gives faster and more dramatic results. The highest doses range from 0.3-1% which should be reserved only for those who have tolerated lower doses.
What are the side effects of retinol serum?
Most commonly, local skin irritation such as redness, burning, stinging and flaking. Some individuals have true retinol allergy which results in a more exaggerated response. Care must be taken not to apply retinol formulations close to the eye area unless specifically formulated for that region.
Should I use retinol or retinoids?
Should I use retinol or retinoids?
If you already use retinol, prescription retinoids may be an option for highest efficacy. However, bear in mind that sensitisation can still occur. This is why at the pharmacy, our formulations are all retinol-free. Instead, we focus on non-sensitising retinol alternatives such as bakuchiol, sea buckthorn oil and oligopeptides.
