Prescription Retinoids vs. Encapsulated Retinol/Retinal
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!