Posted Wednesday, February 1, 2012 by Christina Marrale,

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When it comes to anti-aging, one of the most common concerns I receive is “I need a product that is going to make me look youthful, fast!” though I wish I had an answer for you, the truth of it is there’s no “instant miracle cream”, regardless of the claims. In order to see effective results, you must find products with effective ingredients and maintain a regimen for a minimum of 4-6 weeks to see any type of result.

In today’s post, I’d like to highlight one of my absolute favorite ingredients on the skincare market today that is effective and versatile with many skin types and textures: Retinol.

Retinol is simply another word for Vitamin A, an ingredient that is commonly used in the treatment of many skin problems such as psoriasis, keratosis pilaris (“chicken skin”) pigmentation, acne, and aging skin. Retinol works well as opposed to common moisturizers because it is one of the few reparative substances that are able to pass beneath the upper layers of the epidermis to the layers of skin containing collagen and elastin. It helps to stimulate more collagen and elastic growth as well as speed up cell turnover rate and reduces the effects of free radicals, which are responsible for accelerating skin aging. While speeding up the cell turnover rate, it helps control the build up of dead skin cells within the pore and on the surface of the skin. In other words, it has an exfoliating effect which is known to assist in the treatment of pigmentation.

Are there any side effects that should concern me?

Don’t use a retinoid if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, Benzoyl peroxide and alpha hydroxy acids may deactivate retinoids, so don’t layer them.  Waxing can cause excess redness on retinoid-treated skin, Sensitivity to the sunlight may occur…it is imperative to use an SPF while in sunlight, Only use a Retinol treatment at night.

Does it give me instant results?

Keep in mind Retinol wrinkle creams do not work overnight. They only work when they are used on a regular basis. You should find results within 4-6 weeks when used properly.

If you are interested in learning more about Retinol treatments, or are looking to get a prescription for a stronger formula than what you may find on the drugstore shelves, Call up your Dermatologist and make an appointment!