If you are interested in skin care and are looking for an effective solution to combat aging, uneven texture or spots, you have surely heard of retinoids. Among them, retinol and retinal have gained popularity, but in the world of cosmetics there are new alternatives such as bio-retinoids, with similar efficacy with less irritation.
What are retinoids and why are they so effective?
Retinoids are a group of compounds derived from vitamin A, essential for cell renewal and collagen stimulation. Their ability to accelerate skin regeneration and improve the appearance of wrinkles, spots and imperfections has made them a favourite in dermatology and cosmetics.
Within retinoids, we find several versions with different levels of potency and tolerance. Among the best known is retinol, but it is not the only one. There are others such as retinal (or retinaldehyde) and bio-retinoids, which offer similar benefits with less irritation and without restrictions in the European Union.
Retinol: the classic retinoid
Retinol is possibly the most famous of the retinoids. Its action is focused on the conversion into retinoic acid within the skin, a process that allows it to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, improving texture and reducing wrinkles. However, this process can be slow and, in many cases, cause irritation, peeling and redness, especially in sensitive skin.
Despite these adverse effects, retinol remains a key ingredient in anti-aging cosmetics. To minimize irritation, it is advisable to start with low concentrations and gradually increase its use.
Retinal: faster and better tolerated
Retinal or retinaldehyde is an evolution of retinol that has positioned itself as a superior option in terms of efficacy and tolerance. Its great advantage is that it needs only one conversion to transform into retinoic acid within the skin, making it up to 11 times faster than traditional retinol. In addition, by reducing the number of conversions, the risk of irritation is considerably reduced.
Because of its rapid action and lower irritating potential, retinal is an excellent alternative for those seeking visible results without the usual side effects of stronger retinoids.
Bio-retinoids: the vegetal evolution of retinoids
Bio-retinoids are an innovation in cosmetics that seek to replicate the effects of traditional retinoids using plant sources. Unlike alternatives such as bakuchiol, which is promoted as a retinol-like option, bio-retinoids act as true retinoids, with the ability to stimulate collagen production and improve cell renewal.
One of the most notable is retinART , a bio-retinoid derived from Mediterranean algae. Its great advantage is its ability to synthesize up to 90% more collagen than pure retinol, without causing irritation or photosensitization. This makes it an ideal option for those who want the benefits of retinol without its adverse effects.
How to incorporate retinoids into your beauty routine?
If you want to reap the benefits of retinoids, it is essential to introduce them into your routine gradually. Here are some key tips:
- Start slowly. For the first two weeks, apply it three times a week; for the next two weeks, one day on and one day off. And, since you've already completed a month, apply it every night.
- Always wear sunscreen : Retinoids can make skin more sensitive to the sun, so it's a must to apply a high SPF during the day.
- Apply them at night: Most retinoids are photosensitive and should be used in your nighttime routine.
Combine them with soothing ingredients in a cream that is richer than the one you use in the morning, such as the Mushroom & Karite Story cream. To reduce the risk of irritation, accompany them with hydrating and repairing active ingredients such as niacinamide and hyaluronic acid.
Which retinoid is best for you?
The choice between retinol, retinal and bio-retinoids will depend on your skin type and your goals. If you are looking for a traditional option with proven efficacy, retinol remains a safe bet. For those who want faster results with less irritation, retinal is the best alternative. And if you prefer a more natural and well-tolerated option, bio-retinoids are the ideal solution.
Whatever your choice, retinoids will remain a mainstay in skincare, offering effective solutions to combat signs of aging and improve skin quality. And to complete your skincare routine, visit Byoode , where you will find everything you need.