Tretinoin or Retinol

Feb 7

Retinol and Tretinoin are two skincare powerhouses that are often confused with each other. We’re here to clear things up for you! Think of Retinol as your mild-mannered superhero who does the job gently, and Tretinoin as the muscle-bound superhero who gets the job done with a bang!

Tretinoin is a prescription-strength form of Vitamin A and is available in a gel or cream. It is a powerful retinoid that is used to treat a range of skin conditions including acne, wrinkles, and sun damage. Tretinoin works by increasing cell turnover and stimulating collagen production, which can lead to firmer, smoother skin.

Retinol, on the other hand, is a more gentle form of Vitamin A, which is found in various skincare products including serums, creams, and gels. It is a gentler form of Vitamin A and works by stimulating cell growth and promoting skin cell turnover. This can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. Retinol is suitable for those with sensitive skin or for those who are new to using anti-aging skincare products. It is also available over-the-counter, making it a more accessible option .

Retinol is not as strong as tretinoin because it must first be converted into retinaldehyde and then into retinoic acid in order to be active. This conversion process can limit the strength of its effects. Tretinoin does not have to undergo any conversion and is retinoic acid.

Common side effects of retinol and tretinoin include skin irritation, dryness, redness, sun sensitivity and peeling. These are all normal and expected side effects, unfortunately these are usually the reason most people stop them. As long as reactions are not severe, it is generally recommended that you push through and your skin will acclimate. Retinol or tretinoin should be used at night, after you wash your face and before your moisturizer. It is an option to apply it after your moisturizer, which does decrease the dryness, but also decreases it effectiveness. It is best to start using them 1-2 times per week and slowly increase to nightly if you can tolerate it. The goal is to use either one at least 5 nights per week.

Whether you choose retinol or tretinoin, incorporating Vitamin A into your skincare routine is like having your own personal superhero fighting for your skin. The best product is the one you can tolerate. So, go ahead, be the hero of your skin’s story and watch as your skin transforms into its best self.

We have done the research for you and carry some of the top retinol products available, all with research to back them up. As nurse practitioners we are also able to prescribe tretinoin. You can call 816-600-0558 to schedule an appointment. Telehealth appointments are available in some states!

Revision Skincare DEJ Night Face Cream

Shop DEJ Night Face Cream Here

All in one facial moisturizer with 0.25% time released retinol
Contains Bakuchiol, an antioxidant that amplifies the efficacy of retinol
Contains vitamin C to improve the anti-aging benefits
Good for all skin types
Special blend that helps restore the skins natural moisture barrier and combats dryness and irritation associated with a retinol

Jan Marini Age Intervention Retinol Plus MD

Shop Age Intervention Retinol Here

High concentration of retinol plus advanced peptides, antioxidants, hydrating agents
Requires minimal acclimation with little to no irritation
Improves smoothness, luminosity, texture, fine lines and wrinkles, pore size
Good for all skin types
Best for antiaging

Jan Marini Age Intervention Duality MD

Shop Age Intervention Duality MD Here

Contains retinol, anti aging peptides and antioxidants

Also contains benzoyl peroxide for treating acne
Not for sensitive or dry skin due to the benzoyl peroxide and the drying effects
Best option for treating acne prone skin