Influences gene expression to improve skin aging
Retinol is a type of vitamin A. It is primarily focused on normalizing skin condition, and the epidermal cells of aging skin play an important role in maintaining their original function. It is not synthesized directly in the body and must be obtained through foods or cosmetics. Through various studies and clinical trials, retinol has been identified as a component that can provide benefits such as ▲improvement of wrinkles ▲whitening ▲increase in skin epidermal thickness ▲anti-aging effects ▲reduction of skin damage caused by ultraviolet rays.
How can such effects be achieved? Retinol influences gene expression related to cell proliferation, differentiation, melanin production, and inflammation. When retinol is absorbed into the skin, it is converted into 'retinoic acid' by enzymes within the skin. This retinoic acid binds to two different nuclear receptors (RARs and RXRs) and regulates gene expression. As a result, the skin becomes thicker and benefits from effects such as promoting hyaluronic acid production.
In fact, in 2005, a result was published in the Blue Journal, a dermatology SCI journal, showing that applying 0.05% retinoic acid daily for six months led to the regeneration of collagen and elastic fibers. In particular, it was reported that new collagen is produced in the dermal regeneration zone of the dermis layer through special staining, and the excellence of retinoic acid's anti-aging effects has continued for nearly 20 years. Retinoic acid can be said to be a suitable ingredient for anti-aging as it reduces increased pigmentation in the epidermis and increases the amount of collagen in the dermis layer.
✔️It has a stimulating sensation... I should only apply a small amount in the evening.
However, retinol can cause skin irritation. It should be applied in very small amounts, as much as needed for daily use. If you apply too much in an attempt to see quick results, you may experience side effects such as redness, stinging, and peeling within just a week of use. Retinol requires a period of adjustment to your skin condition. During the first two weeks, use it every other day, and if no skin troubles occur, you can start using it daily from the third week. Especially if you have thin, red, and sensitive skin, it is advisable to start with a very small amount once every 2-3 days and gradually increase the amount. To reduce irritation, it is also helpful to apply moisturizer first before using retinol products, or to mix an equal amount of moisturizer with the retinol and apply. However, avoid applying a pack over retinol. It can cause increased irritation because, during initial use, the skin is more sensitive, and applying a pack afterward can enhance absorption and worsen irritation.
Skin irritation caused by retinol usually returns to normal after discontinuing use. It is okay to use again after recovery.
Retinol is also sensitive to light. Animal studies have shown that retinoic acid, a derivative of retinol, can increase the risk of skin cancer when exposed to sunlight. Therefore, retinol should only be used at night when there is little sunlight, and it must be thoroughly washed off in the morning. Since some residues may remain after washing, it is essential to apply sunscreen before going outside. When storing, keep it in a place away from light.
Check the retinol content before purchasing.
When choosing a retinol product, it is important to carefully check whether it contains enough retinol ingredients. Unlike regular cosmetics, retinol requires a complex manufacturing, storage, packaging, and distribution process, so derivatives that have similar effects are sometimes used. These include 'retinoids,' 'retinal,' and 'retinyl.' All of these are chemically similar in structure to retinol and have similar effects. They are less irritating compared to retinol, but their skin absorption is relatively lower, so the effectiveness may be reduced when used in the same amount as retinol. To expect results, you should use products that stabilize retinol well, which is easily oxidized, and have proven to maintain anti-wrinkle efficacy until use.
