- Teri Kotantoulas 
- May 25, 2022
- 2 min read
Updated: May 25, 2022

Prescription retinoids, like tretinoin, found in Retin-A and Renova, have been prescribed for decades.
Did you know that there are other forms of Vitamin A that make a bigger impact on the skin?
VITAMIN A & THE SKIN
- Skin needs Vitamin A every day (every 24 hours), especially those 30 and older. 
- Vitamin A is a vital ingredient needed to build collagen and elastin, which decline as we age. 
- Cells recognize Retinoic Acid and initiate fibroblast activity, which increases collagen and elastin synthesis as well as natural cellular turnover. 
- Vitamin A should not cause sensitivity, dryness, or peeling. It is a nutrient with valuable properties for the skin and body. 
- Vitamin A maintains and repairs skin integrity. 
- Skin only recognizes Retinoic Acid through the conversion of Vitamin A. 
- Conversion of Vitamin A include: - Beta Carotene converts to Retinol 
- Retinol converts to Retinal 
- Retinal converts to Retinoic Acid 
 
PRESCRIPTION RETINOIDS - WHAT IS HAPPENING IN THE SKIN?
- Formulated with skin irritating ingredients including acids, parabens, synthetic dyes and fragrances. 
- Can be comedogenic, exacerbating acne. 
- Tretinoin is already in the form of Retinoic Acid - no conversion occurs in the skin, so the skin doesn't readily accept it. 
- Tretinoin increases exfoliation and stimulates fibroblast activity through forced exfoliation, which depletes the dermis, collagen and elastin. 
- Forced exfoliation gives a softer texture, causes inflammation which plumps lines and wrinkles, but long term affects the thinning dermal layer and leads to sensitivities, accelerated aging, and weaker cells. 
PRESCRIPTION RETINOIDS - SHORT TERM & LONG TERM EFFECTS
- Skin becomes dry, irritated, sensitive, and over time creates a compromised skin barrier. It can only be applied a few times per week in order to avoid irritation, so skin is missing that daily dose. 
- Signs of aging are increased, resulting in a loss of firmness and elasticity in the skin. 
- Photosensitivity is increased due to too much exfoliation. 
ENCAPSULATED RETINOL / RETINAL - WHAT'S HAPPENING IN THE SKIN?
- Encapsulation allows for deeper penetration and delivery. 
- Retinol and Retinal go through the appropriate conversion into Retinoic Acid, and the skin readily accepts it. 
- The skin's dermis receives nutrients and fibroblast activity is initiated. 
- Cellular turnover occurs more naturally from the inside, out. 
ENCAPSULATED RETINOL / RETINAL - SHORT TERM & LONG TERM EFFECTS
- Can be applied nightly, depending on other ingredients in the formula. 
- Skin texture appears softened and smoother over time. These forms of Vitamin A allow for building of collagen and elastin, helping to increase natural cellular turnover. 
- Fine lines and wrinkles decrease, while firmness is increased. 
- Lightening of pigmented areas and a more even complexion overall. 
- Cells become stronger and healthier. 
- Aging slows down significantly the longer they are used, especially with a formula that includes other ingredients, like peptides and/or stem cells, that strengthen the skin rather than create inflammation. 
RHONDA ALLISON FORMULAS WITH ENCAPSULATED RETINAL
- Stem Cell A (anti-aging, pigmentation, rosacea, compromised barrier) 
- ChronoPeptide A (anti-aging) 
- Retinal Clear (acne) 
RHONDA ALLISON FORMULAS WITH ENCAPSULATED RETINOL
- Retinol Supreme (anti-aging) 
- Salicylic A Serum (acne, rosacea) 
So ... now you know the difference of prescription retinoids versus encapsulated retinol and retinal. Feel free to reach out with any questions!







