We are addressing alll your concerns, confusion, and questions surrounding the retinoids in today's episode! Retinoids are incredibly well-researched, effective, and provide many skin benefits that almost everyone can benefit from. However it can be extremely confusing understanding the kinds of retinoids available, how they work on your skin, how to use them, etc. Not only that but there are so many different products formulated with retinoids and it's overwhelming. SO. We got you!
We've listed below some key terms that we address in this episode that you can use for reference. Any questions, comments, products you want us to review? See below for our contact info!
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Retinoids: an umbrella term for all Vitamin A derivatives (retinol, retinal, retin-a, etc)
Retinoic acid: the active compound that provides the collagen building reputation of 'retinoids'
Retinol Esters: the fourth tier; must convert three times to become retinoic acid. The least active and the least irritating.
Retinol: the third tier; must convert two times to become retinoic acid. Very popular in OTC skincare
Retinal (Retinaldehyde): the second tier; must convert once to become retinoic acid
Retinoic Acid: the first tier; the gold standard ingredient that is the most active. Must be prescribed except for one exception in the US
Retinoic Acid Esters: a new ingredient that is in between Tier 2 and Tier 1. It converts to both Retinol and Retinoic Acid.
Granactive Retinoid: a trade formulation of retinoid acid esters. It is 10% Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate which is the active Vitamin A ingredient. When you see a product labeled 2% granactive retinoid it contains .2% of the active Vitamin A ingredient. *In the episode we say .02% when talking about The Ordinary's product, that was incorrect*