Even though there are a number of creams and serums that promise younger skin, there’s only one that actually does what it says it will: retinol.
Yet it must be pointed out that it comes in a variety of forms and one must know its effects (both good and bad) before you actually try it.
Simply put, retinol is a type of retinoid – a derivative of Vitamin A – that is known to give your skin a boost. Not only does it minimize wrinkles and fine lines, smoothes texture while diminishing dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
Since your skin cells stop maturing at a certain age, retinol works well in getting your cells to renew themselves again.
There are topical retinoids that are both prescription and over-the-counter formulas and that will make the outermost layers of your skin flatter as well as thinner.
But they have another purpose: they are also used in acne products as they have been known to unclog blocked pores as well as prevent further build-up. This helps to eliminate the root causes of the breakout and is far more effective.
Of course, not all retinoids created are the same. For example, Retin-A is far more stronger than retinol where the latter is found in drugstore beauty creams. Also, these make your skin work harder to turn retinol to retinoic acid. The latter is actually the active ingredient in prescription retinoids.
So, if you’re looking for fast results, then you can ask your dermatologist to prescribe you the stronger stuff. Yet it is advised that it’s best to start with the gentler, drugstore versions if your skin isn’t used to the strong retinoids.